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A detective has praised a “courageous” rape survivor who fought to secure justice against her attacker.
At York Crown Court yesterday (Tuesday 8 September 2026), Scarborough man Phill Blunt was jailed for eight and a half years for the rape which occurred at an address in the local area more than two years ago.
The 39-year-old (pictured below) was due to stand trial for the offence in July this year, but he changed his plea to guilty at the last moment.
Up until then, the victim was preparing to give evidence at court.
As well as the custodial sentence, Blunt has also been made subject to a restraining order to protect the victim in the future and placed on the Register of Sex Offenders indefinitely.
Detective Constable Jack McCabe, of the Scarborough and Ryedale Safeguarding Investigation Team, said:
“The survivor of this sickening offence has been nothing but courageous during this long-running investigation and court proceedings.
“Her strength and determination have shone throughout, and I truly hope she can now begin to build a happier future now that Blunt is behind bars for a considerable length of time.”
DC McCabe added:
“As for Blunt, at least he finally admitted his guilt and spared the victim the additional trauma of reliving the rape during a trial.
“Thankfully, victims can provide evidence by video link these days, and defendants are often screened from victims’ view if attending court in person.
“Victims of sexual crimes also have their anonymity protected for the rest of their lives by law.
“Ultimately, this case shows that those who commit rape do face the consequences of their despicable actions, and that victims receive professional support and care throughout from the police and our partner agencies.
“If you or someone you know needs our help, please come forward. We are here for you.”
In her victim personal statement, she said:
“Reporting him to the police was one of the hardest things I have ever done, but it was also the best decision I could have made.”