THE bravery of a rape victim to come forward and report the assault to police has been praised by deectives who carried out the investigation.
Michael Tewelde was jailed for ten years after being found guilty of raping the vulnerable man in a North-East nature park.
The 36-year-old father-of-two attacked the man as he walked through Maze Park Nature Reserve, in Middlesbrough, at around 7.30pm on Thursday, April 29.
His victim was left so traumatised by the attack that he left the North East so that he can rebuild his life, Teesside Crown Court heard.
Judge Chris Smith passed a ten year sentence, eight years in custody with an extended two-year licence period, after hearing that Tewelde posed a ‘high risk of re-offending’.
- Read more: Dad of two jailed for raping man at North East nature park branded 'danger to the public'
Speaking after the hearing, temporary Detective Inspector Iain Pearson said: “This was a distressing case where a male victim was raped while walking in a public place.
“I’d like to pay tribute to the victim for his bravery in reporting what had happened – and to thank all those who supported him throughout, especially Investigating Officer Detective Constable Joanne Williams who continued to liaise with and support him during the investigation and court process; her input has been second to none.
“The sentence given today acts as a clear warning to those considering offending that their actions will not be tolerated.
“I hope anyone else who has suffered any sexual assault has the confidence to come forward in the knowledge that they will be listened to and their report will be investigated thoroughly, professionally and sensitively. You are not alone."
- Cleveland Police has specially trained officers who, along with our partner organisations including Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) and ARCH North East, work together to support victims.
- You can report to Cleveland Police any time of night or day on the 101 number.
- Help is also available from
SARC Teesside : www.sarcteesside.co.uk
ARCH North East: www.archnortheast.org
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