Raped a woman while on a first date.

Man Jailed for Raping Woman on First Date

Lee Frost, 38, of Lobley Hill, Gateshead, has been sentenced to nine years in prison for raping a woman he had gone on a first date with. The attack left the victim with extensive bruising and so traumatized that she was forced to move house and now sleeps with a lock on her bedroom door.

Frost was arrested in Spring 2021 on suspicion of rape, but initially denied his guilt, claiming the sexual encounter was consensual. He was charged with two counts of rape and stood trial in January 2023, where he continued to maintain his innocence. However, a jury saw through his lies and found him guilty on both counts.

In addition to the nine-year prison sentence, Frost was given an extended licence period of five years and was added to the Sex Offenders Register for life. A statement read out on behalf of the victim condemned Frost for his actions, stating that he had devastated her life and left her feeling unsafe in her own home.

Northumbria Police praised the victim for her courage in coming forward and for her continued support throughout the investigation, trial, and court proceedings. A spokesperson for the police said, "As a force, we want to praise the victim for finding the strength to speak to officers and for continuing to assist with the investigation, trial and all court proceedings. Her bravery has seen her attacker jailed and we also hope it serves as a stark warning to those with an unlawfully blurred view on consent that no always means no, and no can be conveyed by more than just speech. If a person tells you no, attempts to push you away, freezes or very clearly becomes distressed, it is clear that they have not given you consent to touch them."