DARLINGTON RAPIST SENTENCED TO NINE YEARS FOR VIOLENT ASSAULT
A violent rapist from Darlington, Paul O’Brien, has been sentenced to nine years in prison for a barbaric attack.The incident, which occurred in October of the previous year, involved O’Brien smashing the victim’s phone and demanding sex before carrying out a sustained assault.
The judge described the crime as "beyond appalling" and stated that O’Brien will also be subject to a lifelong registration as a sex offender.
During the sentencing at Teesside Crown Court, O’Brien, aged 47, sat expressionless in the dock.
The court heard that he threatened to return to harm the victim further, even suggesting he would kill her if he were imprisoned.
O’Brien admitted to charges of rape, sexual assault, and assault by penetration, which helped reduce his sentence from an expected 12 years to nine.
He expressed remorse, stating he is deeply ashamed and wishes to apologize.
The judge emphasized that the victim's sense of insecurity and her plans to move home exacerbated the severity of the offense.
The victim suffered considerable psychological damage, including anxiety, nightmares, and a nervous breakdown.
She also reported losing confidence and experiencing ongoing trauma following the attack.
