Paignton man given 19-year sentence for 'terrifying' sexual attacks

A Devon rapist has been jailed for 19 years with a further six years on extended licence after being found guilty of terrifying sexual violence against a woman.

Christopher Hotine, 39, from Paignton, appeared at Exeter Crown Court for sentence on Friday 6 February after being found guilty at a trial at the end of last year of two rapes, sexual assault and assault occasioning actual bodily harm – all offences committed against the same victim on two separate dates.

During the trial, the court heard how on the first occasion, Hotine poured a bottle of wine over the victim’s head, locked her in a room, repeatedly pulled her hair, restricted her breathing and raped her.

The second rape occurred when Hotine entered the victim’s home and bedroom early in the morning and attacked her while she was in her bed.

The court heard how the offences have had a considerable psychological impact on the victim.

Officer in the case, Detective Constable Garry Harding said: “We welcome the sentence given to Christopher Hotine today which means a dangerous rapist has been taken off the streets for some time.

“Hotine subjected his victim to terrifying sexual violence and has never had the courage to admit the offences, resulting in the victim having to give evidence at trial.

“Hotine’s actions were designed to make his victim live in fear, and we are hopeful this sentence will provide her with some closure and allow her to move on with her life.

“I am delighted to see that the Criminal Justice System has secured justice for this incredibly brave victim of the most horrendous of sexual assaults.”

Support available

If you or someone you know has been a victim of rape or sexual assault, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police by calling 101, or 999 in an emergency. You can also report information and crimes on our website.

Alternatively, you can report information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

There are lots of organisations and support agencies available across Devon and Cornwall that can help provide support.

For more information on rape and serious sexual assault and the support services available, please visit our support pages by clicking here.

Advice and support are also offered by our partner agencies:

• National Rape Crisis Helpline 0808 802 9999

• Devon and Cornwall Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARC) 0300 3034626

The Stop It Now charity provides an anonymous helpline for anyone with concerns about child sexual abuse and can help if you are worried about your own thoughts, feelings or behaviour, or have any concerns about another adult or young person www.stopitnow.org.uk

Victim care

If you have been affected by crime, please visit Home - Victim Care Devon & Cornwall (victimcare-dc.org) to access support services and information on your rights and how to navigate the criminal justice system. You can also call Victim Support on 08 08 16 89 111 or Devon and Cornwall Police’s Victim Care Unit on 01392 475900.