James Spedding Jailed for Rape After Attacking Sleeping Woman

A sex offender who raped a woman while she slept has been sentenced to seven years in prison.

James Spedding and the victim, who were known to each other, had been drinking together on the evening of 15 March 2022. In the early hours of the following morning, the victim awoke to find Spedding lying on top of her. The victim, who was vulnerable and unable to consent to sex, reported the incident to family members who then contacted the police.

Spedding, aged 26, of Mansfield, was arrested shortly after and the victim was interviewed and supported by specialist officers. He denied rape but was found guilty following a trial at Nottingham Crown Court in November last year.

On Thursday (13 February) Spedding was sentenced to seven years in prison, which he will begin in a secure hospital. He was also given a 10-year restraining order and must register with police under the Sexual Offences Act indefinitely.