Man from Lydney jailed for serious sexual assaults
35 year-old Benjamin Timmins, from Lydney, was convicted at the beginning of September.
A man from Lydney been sentenced to 12 years in prison for two serious sexual assault controlling and coercive behaviour, assault and intimidating a witness
35 year-old Benjamin Timmins, from Lydney, was convicted at the beginning of September following a two-week trial at Gloucester Crown Court.
He will also be placed on the sex offenders’ register for life
Detective Constable Emma Jackson, who was given a commendation by His Honour Judge Lawrie for her work on the case, said: “The victim has been so courageous in coming forward and supporting this case from the on-set of the investigation through the criminal justice process to its conclusion today. She has described, in very honest detail, the impact that this horrific offending has had on her.
“She has shown incredible strength and bravery and has received acknowledgment for what she was subjected to and I hope she can now begin to rebuild her life.
“I would also like to acknowledge the victim’s friends who recognised what was happening to her, took positive action and have shown immense support to her throughout the process.
“Timmins has shown no remorse for his offending against her, refusing to attend sentencing, and has continued to try and intimidate her to prevent him being brought to justice.
“The offending against this victim was incredibly serious, which has been recognised by the Courts today.
“Coercive control is a relatively new criminal offence but one that we take extremely seriously. It can be subtle, pervasive and hugely degrading, damaging the emotional and physical wellbeing of a victim.
“We encourage everyone to be aware of it and look out for it, whether in your own relationship, or the relationships of family or friends.
“If you recognise the signs, please call us or seek help from a third party like Gloucestershire Rape and Sexual Assault Clinic.”