Dumitru-Robert Lacatus 27

Description

A convicted rapist buried his head in his hands upon learning he would spend many years in prison.

Dumitru-Robert Lacatus, 27, of Welsh Road in Garden City, appeared via video link from HMP Berwyn at Mold Crown Court for sentencing on Monday.

He was found guilty after trial on 12 counts: rape (x2), assault (x3), assault occasioning actual bodily harm (x2), making a threat to kill (x1), suffocation (x1), making a threat with a large blade (machete) (x1), and assault by beating (x2).

Defense counsel Simeon Evans told the court:

"Mr Lacatus continues to deny the offences.

"There is little I can say regarding his response which can assist him in shortening the sentence.

"It is the length of the sentence which will be his major concern.

"He is still a relatively young man and he has some English but it's very limited.

"That makes his time in custody much more challenging."

Judge Rhys Rowlands addressed Lacatus:

"You were convicted by the jury of 12 counts charging serious sexual, violent offending.

"What is clear is that you have no remorse whatsoever for what you did and no insight into the undoubtedly serious harm you caused."

The judge described the offending as "at times, very depraved," adding: "I am keenly aware that you are now going to spend a long time in prison, a long way from your family in Romania.

"It won't be easy for you but a sentence of immediate imprisonment, as has been conceded, is quite inevitable."

Lacatus received a 16-year prison sentence, after which he placed his face in his hands and sighed audibly.

He is subject to a restraining order protecting the victim and must register as a sex offender indefinitely.