Shrewsbury man sentenced for rape

A man from Shrewsbury has been sentenced to more than seven years in prison for rape in Shrewsbury.

John Patrick, aged 39, of no fixed address, was sentenced today (Tuesday 27 October) at Shrewsbury Crown Court, to seven years and three months in prison for raping a 13-year-old girl.

Patrick plead guilty on Friday 16 October at Shrewsbury Crown Court, to the rape which happened in Frankwell in Shrewsbury on 13 April 2020. He was also sentenced to two offences of possession of Class B drugs and was given a 20 year Sexual Harm Prevention Order.

Detective Sergeant Laura Breeze said: "This was an atrocious offence and the investigating officers and detectives have worked tirelessly to bring Patrick to justice in order to keep the community safe."

“My hope is also that this conviction will provide reassurance to other victims of sexual offences, giving them the confidence to report their ordeal in the knowledge that they will be listened to and supported. Police will always investigate and do everything in their power to bring offenders to justice.

"If anyone has been affected by this case then I urge them to come forward and make a report to police."

Anyone who is a victim of any sexual assault and feels they may need support can contact West Mercia's Victim Advice Line. It is a free, independent and confidential support service. People can call 0800 952 3000 or visit www.victimadviceline.org.uk and do not have to have reported the offence to the police.

To report a crime like this, phone the police non-emergency number 101 (always call 999 in an emergency). If you'd like to give information anonymously - without leaving your name or identifying details - you can do so by phoning the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Crimestoppers also has an anonymous online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org