Dangerous Exeter rapist jailed for 15 years

DANGEROUS EXETER RAPIST JAILED FOR 15 YEARS

A man from Exeter who committed serious sexual offences has been sentenced to 15 years in prison.

Michael Land, a waste collection worker, was described during court proceedings as a 'violent and aggressive' individual who does not grasp the concept of consent or the nature of rape.

He denied committing two counts of rape, but a jury found him guilty after a trial held in January.

The sentencing judge stated that Land posed a danger to society and added an additional five years to his term, which will be served on licence once he is released.

Judge James Patrick acknowledged Land's difficulties in communication, citing a troubled childhood and upbringing.

However, he emphasized that Land exhibited violent, aggressive, demanding, and selfish behavior.

The court heard that Land forced the victim to have sex despite her clear refusal.

He was also convicted of causing her actual bodily harm.

The judge commented that Land still fails to understand or refuses to acknowledge what constitutes consent and rape.

He stated that Land maintains his innocence and displays a lack of awareness.

Furthermore, it was assessed that Land poses a high risk of causing further serious harm and shows little motivation to change his behavior.

The judge ruled that Land must serve a minimum of ten years before he can be considered for release on licence, by which time the parole board will assess his suitability.

Land has also been placed on the sex offender register for life.