James Stark 27

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A man from Bedford who sexually assaulted a woman as she slept has been jailed for four years.

James Stark, aged 25, of West Rope Way, was out drinking with friends in Bedford and went back in a taxi to the victims home before committing the attack in August 2017.

Bedfordshire Police said that, after talking for a while, the victim went upstairs to bed, leaving Stark on the sofa.

Shortly after, she was woken by Stark, who was on top of her, and she pleaded with him to stop.

He fled the property, leaving behind his trousers, hat, mobile and passport at the victims house. He was arrested later that morning at his home.

The victim had gone straight to her mum and told her what had happened. In her victim statement, she said Starks actions had turned her life upside down and that her mental health had suffered.

Jurors found Stark guilty of assault by penetration following a trial in December. He was found not guilty of rape.

On Monday, February 22, at Luton Crown Court, Stark was sentenced to spend four years in prison. He will also be added to the sex offenders register for life.

DC Brendan Street, who led the investigation, said: I would like to commend the victim for her bravery in coming forward. She was amazing throughout the trial and continued to support the investigation despite a number of trial delays.

I would also like to praise her family who attended every day of trial and sentencing. Starks actions have not only had a significant impact on the victim, but also had a negative impact on her family.

Stark subjected his victim to a horrible ordeal; no woman should ever be made to feel unsafe. Our message to offenders is clear: no will always mean no.

We have a number of highly trained officers and support services working with the victim and her family.

We understand this can be difficult to talk about, but we have a number of highly experienced and trained officers and support services here to help. If you are ready to talk, we are here to listen, help, and support you.