SEX ATTACKER TRIED TO RAPE WOMAN AFTER FOLLOWING HER TO BATHROOM
2016.A man convicted of launching a sexual assault campaign aimed at coercing a woman into sex has received a three-year prison sentence.
Joseph Nightingale, 47, attempted to commit rape following a series of sexual offenses in the summer of 2014.
Preston Crown Court was told that Nightingale, residing on Rosewood Avenue in Blackburn, was familiar with the woman and would visit her at her residence.
On multiple occasions, he inappropriately touched her breasts and followed her into the bathroom, trying to make sexual advances.
In June 2014, Nightingale entered the woman’s home while she was taking a bath, according to court reports.
She allowed him entry and went upstairs to change clothes.
The court stated that Nightingale came upstairs after her, pushed her onto the bed, and attempted to rape her.
The woman screamed, causing Nightingale to step back, but the judge noted that she experienced "significant trauma" from the incident.
Although she was anxious about testifying against him, she has since returned to work after his conviction for attempted rape and sexual assault.
During the trial, the judge allowed Nightingale to give evidence via video link due to his speech impediment which worsens under pressure.
Judge Andrew Woolman acknowledged that a prison sentence would be harsh for him and that incarceration would exacerbate his speech problems.
He also pointed out that Nightingale’s denial of the offenses made the situation more difficult.
The judge emphasized the severity of the crimes: "There was a campaign of sexual assaults which culminated in the attempted rape of this woman." Nightingale was sentenced to three years and will be subject to indefinite notification requirements.
He was also ordered to pay a statutory surcharge.
