Paul Martin 45

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Paul Martin Jailed for Rape and Violent Disorder

A 45-year-old man from Middlesbrough has been jailed for more than 11 years after raping a drunk teenager and later admitting violent disorder while on bail.

Paul Martin, of Stafford Road, Middlesbrough, was sentenced at Durham Crown Court on Tuesday, 14 July 2026 to nine years for rape plus 26 months for violent disorder, totalling 11 years and two months. He must register as a sex offender for life and is subject to a restraining order protecting the victim, also for life.

The rape occurred in Middlesbrough in 2022. The teenage victim had been drinking and was sitting on a bench in distress when Martin cycled past. CCTV showed him turning around and returning. Prosecuting barrister Rebecca Brown told the court the victim asked for “help”. Martin led her into a secluded street, grabbed her wrist, forced her onto her hands and knees and threatened to rape her unless she performed a sex act on him.

After the attack Martin left. Two young men found the distressed victim and flagged down police. Martin, who had remained nearby, was arrested. He initially claimed the victim had propositioned him, asking if he wanted “any business”. He maintained this account until DNA evidence linked him to the offence. He had very little money on him at the time. In a later interview he claimed the victim had agreed to the sex act. A jury at Teesside Crown Court last month rejected his account and convicted him of rape.

While on bail for the rape, Martin took part in a prolonged disturbance in Birchington Avenue, Grangetown, Middlesbrough on 12 May 2024. A car and makeshift barricade were set alight and missiles, including fireworks, were thrown at police and emergency services. Martin admitted violent disorder on 1 June 2026.

In mitigation, defence barrister Chris Baker said Martin had no previous convictions for serious sexual offences or disorder, described the rape as opportunistic, and said Martin played a lesser role in the disorder by helping build the barricade but not throwing missiles.

The victim’s impact statement said the attack had left her already fragile mental health significantly worse. She has become isolated from family and friends and fears encountering Martin.

Judge Richard Bennett described the rape as “a wicked offence” that caused the victim “severe psychological harm”.

Martin was convicted of rape and admitted violent disorder. He has no prior convictions for serious sexual or disorder offences. The rape was described as opportunistic. He played a lesser role in the disorder.