Locations
Furness Square, Bolton, Greater Manchester, BL2
Description
A 74-year-old man was sentenced after pleading guilty to one count of rape of a woman 16 years or over, and one count of sexual assault.
Stephen Biggs (04/03/1952) of Furness Square, Bolton appeared at Bolton Crown Court on Thursday 2 April, and was sentenced to nine years in prison.
In late March 2025, a woman befriended Biggs and he invited her alone to his address. Biggs gave her a unknown substance, which led to her feeling drowsy and later falling unconscious in the offender's home.
When she awoke, some of her clothing had been removed, and she found Biggs on top of her. The victim was struggling to gain full consciousness and passed out once again. After waking up, she found the offender still on top of her with his trousers unzipped and she managed to push him off her.
Following his arrest, Biggs was interviewed by officers, where he admitted to raping and assaulting the victim whilst she was unconscious.
The victim bravely shared in her interview: "Being older, this has really taken a toll on me. It’s ruined my confidence. I’m struggling within my own relationship with my partner. It’s destroyed me.”
Detective Constable Jordan Brown from our Bolton CID said:
"This was a horrific assault that happened to the victim all without her consent and without her knowledge at the time.
"She has been immensely brave coming forward to report this and supporting the investigation and I would like to thank her for her continued strength and courage during this difficult time.
"We remain committed to supporting victims of sexual violence and bringing offenders to account, no matter how long it takes.
"I urge anyone who may have gone through this to please come forward and report. You will always be treated with respect and your reports will always be taken seriously."