Courageous victim helps put rapist behind bars

A rapist who subjected a girl to horrific attacks several times has been jailed.

John Tyler raped the teenager multiple times between 1999 and 2000.

The victim did not initially make a complaint after being threatened by Tyler but living with what had happened to her continued to impact her and led to her courageously coming forward in 2024.

An investigation was launched and Tyler was subsequently interviewed and charged with four counts of rape on a girl under 16.

The 54-year-old had pleaded guilty and was due to stand trial but changed his plea after the jury had been sworn in at Durham Crown Court on Wednesday (October 14).

Tyler, of HMP Wakefield, was sentenced to seven years in prison and subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order. This will be added on top of an existing sentence he is currently serving for another rape which is due to run until 2032.

His victim was also granted a restraining order.

DC Adam Boyle, who led the investigation, said: “Tyler is a danger to women and girls and thanks to our courageous victim, will now remain behind bars.

“The victim showed true strength coming forward a second time and we want to remind other victims that it is never too later to report incidents so we can work to bring offenders to justice and protect the public.”

If you or someone you know is experiencing sexual abuse call Durham Constabulary on 101, or dial 999 in an emergency.

If you’re more comfortable reporting online, you can visit our online reporting page here www.durham.police.uk/ro/report/rsa/alpha-v1/v1/rape-sexual-assault-other-sexual-offences/

If you’re not ready to speak to police, there are other agencies who can help:

• The Meadows Sexual Assault Referral Centre provides free, confidential healthcare and compassionate support to people who have experienced rape or sexual assault. Call 0330 223 0099 or visit www.sarcdurham.co.uk
• The Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line is available 24/7 and provides support for anyone who has been affected by rape or sexual assault. Call 0808 500 2222 or visit www.247sexualabusesupport.org.uk
• The Rape and Sexual Abuse Counselling Centre (RSACC) offers free, specialist support to anyone who has experienced any form of sexual violence at any time in their lives. Call 01325 354119, email [email protected] or visit www.rsacc-thecentre.org.uk