STUDENT STUDENT IN SHEFFIELD SENTENCED TO SIX YEARS FOR ASSAULTING VULNERABLE WOMEN
Predatory student studying in Sheffield was sentenced to six years in prison for raping three women over a four-year span, with offences occurring in East Sussex and Sheffield.Tarling, 22, residing on Common Lane in Laughton near Lewes, demonstrated no emotion during sentencing.
The court heard he targeted drunk and vulnerable women, with two offences in East Sussex and one in Sheffield, where he was a student.
He was convicted of rape, sexual assault, and assault by penetration after a lengthy trial in which his victims recounted their traumatic experiences.
The court was told he sent texts to two victims after assaults, claiming remorse to prevent them from reporting him.
One victim described suffering nightmares and flashbacks, worrying about forming friendships with men, while another suffered depression and described her trauma openly in court.
Prosecutor Chris Hewertson emphasized a pattern of escalating offending over four years, noting alcohol played a central role.
The defendant's lawyer argued there was no premeditation, citing his youth and lack of prior convictions, suggesting he is capable of change.
However, the sentencing judge, Recorder Mark Heywood QC, stated Tarling took advantage of alcohol's effects in Sheffield and imposed a six-year sentence, with Tarling being placed on the sex offenders register for life.
Detective Constable Andy Lawrence described Tarling as a predatory sex offender, highlighting the importance of victim support and justice.
