MATTHEW WHITE FROM YATE SENTENCED TO SIX YEARS FOR RAPE IN SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE

A man identified as Matthew White, aged 34 and residing in Witcombe, Yate, South Gloucestershire, has been handed a six-year prison sentence after being convicted of serious sexual offenses. The case stemmed from an incident that occurred last August, involving a 19-year-old woman who was the victim of a brutal assault.

According to court proceedings, the victim was subjected to a rape during the night. She managed to escape the scene, leaving behind her clothing and her mobile phone in her haste to get away from her attacker. Despite her fleeing, White demonstrated a brazen attitude when police attempted to contact him. When officers called her phone, White answered it and, in a provocative manner, challenged the police by saying, "If you're the police, come and find me." His taunting remarks underscored his defiance and lack of remorse at that moment.

Following the circulation of CCTV footage in the Bristol Post, which captured White's image, he eventually surrendered himself to law enforcement authorities. His surrender came after the public exposure of his actions, which played a significant role in his apprehension.

During the trial, the court was informed that White initially denied the allegations, claiming that the sexual encounter was consensual. However, the evidence presented proved otherwise. The judge, Geoffrey Mercer QC, emphasized that White had exploited the victim for his own sexual gratification, taking advantage of her vulnerable state. The judge described White's actions as a clear case of exploiting a young woman for his personal benefit.

It was revealed that on the night of the assault, White had intentions of pursuing a sexual encounter, as he had persuaded the victim to accompany him back to his room. Once there, he proceeded to rape her and made an attempt to commit a second sexual assault. During the attack, White tore off her dress, further demonstrating his violent and predatory behavior.

As part of his sentencing, White was not only given a prison term but also placed on the sex offenders register indefinitely. This measure ensures that he will be subject to ongoing monitoring and restrictions, reflecting the severity of his crimes and the court's stance on protecting the public from such offenders.