Sex offender committed multiple offences including rape and sexual assault.

Man Jailed for 12 Years for Rape and Sexual Assault

John Crawford, 35, of St Vincent Street, Barrow, has been sentenced to 12 years in prison at Preston Crown Court for multiple offences including rape and sexual assault.

The offences relate to incidents against two women that occurred between February 2015 and February 2020.

Crawford will serve a minimum of two thirds of his sentence before being eligible for release on licence. He is considered a dangerous offender and will be subject to the sex offenders register for life.

Investigating officer Sergeant Kerry-Anne Travis said: "I would like to thank the two victims for their bravery in reporting these offences. Sexual violence can have a devastating impact on victims and their families. We would encourage any person who may have experienced such incidents to report the matter to police. We have specially trained officers to investigate and support you throughout."

"I would like to give special thanks to the Bridgeway Sexual Assault Referral Clinic (SARC). They provide an invaluable service to victims of sexual offences who may not wish to report sexual offences directly to police. Victims can self-refer to the SARC and will be supported by a specialist team."