Description
A man has been jailed after admitting rape, assault with intent to commit a sexual offence, false imprisonment and controlling and coercive behaviour.
In March 2025, Paul Devaney, aged 42, of no fixed abode, committed a catalogue of offences against the same woman which included punching her in the face and pinning her to a sofa in an address in Stockton, using his knee to restrict her breathing.
The woman was raped by Devaney and video evidence of this was found on a mobile phone.
Devaney was arrested and later charged after detectives worked diligently in their investigation.
He pleaded guilty at court to committing an offence with the intention of committing a relevant sexual offence, rape, controlling and coercive behaviour and false imprisonment.
At Teesside Crown Court today, Friday 9th January 2026, Devaney was sentenced to life imprisonment with a recommendation to serve a minimum of eight years in prison, and he was given a lifetime restraining order.
Investigating officer, Detective Constable Jess Mangham, said:
“I am satisfied with the sentence today. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the victim in this case who has shown bravery and courage despite the significant impact this incident has had on her life. Devaney will now spend a significant period behind bars, preventing him from harming others.”