County Durham Dad Jailed for Rape

A County Durham dad, Jamie Plews, has been sentenced to three years and nine months in prison for the rape of a woman in Gateshead.

The court heard that Plews carried out the attack late at night, ignoring the victim's pleas to stop. The woman suffered a panic attack as Plews left the scene. Days later, Plews was found at a viaduct and admitted to the rape after concerned members of the public contacted the police. He then attempted suicide by taking an overdose of tablets.

In a victim impact statement, the woman described the devastating impact of the rape, stating that she had "lost all confidence" and frequently suffers from night-terrors and panic attacks.

Plews, 29, pleaded guilty to the offence and expressed remorse for his actions. The court acknowledged his lack of prior convictions and his status as a "devoted father." However, the severity of the crime led to the significant prison sentence.

Plews will be placed on the sex offender's register indefinitely and an indefinite restraining order was also imposed.