A woman who was raped and controlled by Stephen David Beattie says she is still 'chased' by him in her nightmares after he was jailed for 11 years at Liverpool Crown Court.
Beattie, 39, of no fixed abode, appeared in court on Monday, November 2, after being found guilty of rape, engaging in controlling/coercive behaviour and witness intimidation. He committed the offences against a woman between 2020 and 2025 in Wirral.
Victim's statement details lasting trauma
In an extract from the Victim Personal Statement, the woman said: “What happened to me has affected every part of my life and I still struggle with it every day.
“I find it very difficult to sleep. When I do fall asleep, I often have nightmares about Stephen. In those dreams he is chasing me and I can’t get away from him.
“Although I am dealing with the impact of everything that happened, I take some comfort in knowing that Stephen does not currently have the opportunity to control me, isolate me or take away my freedom again. Being free from that control has allowed me to begin rebuilding my life, but the effects of his actions remain with me every day.”
Police describe Beattie as dangerous offender
Detective Constable Patrick Shaw said: “Beattie is a dangerous offender who committed serious offences against a woman over several years.
“It’s only right that he now faces a lengthy prison sentence and I sincerely hope this brings some comfort to the victim.
“If you or someone you know has been the victim of a sexual offence, please be assured that we have specially trained officers to guide you through the process.”
To report rape or serious sexual assault, call 101 to speak to a specially trained call handler. Reports can also be made anonymously online.
Support services available
In Liverpool, Sefton and Wirral, support is provided by Rape and Sexual Abuse centre (RASA Merseyside), who can be contacted at www.rasamerseyside.org or on 0151 558 1801. In St Helens and Knowsley, support is provided by the Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre (RASASC - Cheshire and Merseyside) who can be contacted at www.rapecentre.org.uk and on 01925 221 546 or 0330 363 0063.
Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs) allow victims to get confidential medical, practical and emotional support from specialists. Merseyside Police says its Violence against Women and Girls (VAWG) campaign is putting the voices of women and girls at the heart of its work to tackle VAWG.
