13-year prison sentence for man described as 'danger to women'
The 39 year old committed the offence of rape in Bridgwater back in June 2022
A man has been handed a 13 year prison sentence for raping a woman in Bridgwater.
Stefan Bolohan, who is 39 and of no fixed address, was put behind bars last week (May 24) at Taunton Crown Court (which was sitting at North Somerset Magistrates Court) after a jury found him guilty in March to one count of rape.
It follows an incident back on June 3rd, 2022.
The court heard how the incident was reported to police the day after - with detectives working to collect evidence, by carrying out a CCTV trawl of the area - and issuing a CCTV appeal to the public.
Bolohan was later arrested.
Detective Inspector Claire Millington described Bolohan as a ‘danger to women’ and she was grateful this was recognised in his sentence.
She added: “I want to thank the public for sharing our media appeal which ultimately assisted us in identifying Stefan Bolohan as the offender.
“The CCTV in this case showed that Bolohan was calculated and predatory, following the victim and, when she was isolated and in an area of darkness, he took the opportunity to attack her and subject her to a horrific ordeal.”
In a statement read out in court, the victim said: “Since the night it happened, I have tried my best to continue with life for my family. But this is easier said than done.
“There are constant reminders, and even without those reminders, I struggle to block out the awful fears, anger, anxiety and questions.”
DI Millington added: “I cannot put into words the courage and bravery the victim has shown in not only coming forward to the police, but supporting the police investigation and giving evidence in court.”
Judge Cook sentenced Bolohan to 13 years’ imprisonment, with an extended period of three years on licence.
Along with the sentence, Bolohan was ordered to sign onto the sex offenders’ register. The judge also granted a life-long restraining order against Bolohan not to contact the victim.
If you are a victim of rape or sexual assault, you are urged to come forward. It is never too late to report offences to police.
Victims of rape or sexual assault, recent or non-recent, can self-refer to The Bridge, a Sexual Assault Referral Centre available 24/7 365 days a year. Visit their website or call 0117 342 6999.
You can also visit www.thisisnotanexcuse.org for details of charities and organisations who are experts in supporting victims.