Rapist Joe Hunt jailed for 14 years

ALCOHOLIC Joe Hunt has been jailed for 14 years and four months after admitting three charges of rape.

The 48-year-old indecently assaulted his victim before raping her, Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court heard yesterday.

Prosecutor Trevor Meegan said on one occasion the alcoholic dragged his victim into some bushes before carrying out the attack.

The court was told that the woman has been left feeling depressed and has undergone counselling as a result of the incidents.

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Hunt, of William Street, Fenton, pleaded guilty to three charges of rape.

Catherine O'Reilly, mitigating, said Hunt was an 'inadequate individual' who struggles to maintain meaningful relationships. She added he has had problems with alcohol for many years and was drinking three bottles of whisky a day.

Judge Paul Glenn also condemned Hunt for his lack of remorse and total lack of feelings towards his victim.

He told Hunt: "You raped your victim on three separate occasions.

"She is plainly a very damaged individual, not that you cared, because all you cared about was your own sexual gratification.

"She has suffered depression, she has had nightmares, she self-harmed and she has abused drink and cannabis.

"She felt disgusted with herself and dirty.

"You show no remorse whatsoever for what you did."

Hunt will have his name added to the Sex Offenders' Register where it will remain indefinitely.

He was also disqualified from working with children and barred from being involved in a range of activities involving young people.

After yesterday's sentencing hearing, investigating officer Detective Constable Natalie Edwards urged victims of sex crimes to come forward.

She said: "Staffordshire Police is committed to protecting all residents including all vulnerable members of the community.

"We thoroughly investigate all allegations of sexual abuse and work with partners to tackle these very serious crimes in a sensitive manner.

"Anyone with information about suspected sexual abuse should contact our Protecting Vulnerable People Department on 101."