A sex predator who stalked a woman across Newcastle city centre before attempting to rape her in a terrifying early-hours attack has been sentenced to more than five years in prison.
Prolonged Stalking and a Vicious Assault
Thomas Dodds, 22, targeted his victim near Central Station in the early hours of the morning as she walked home alone. The court heard he followed her for approximately half a mile, matching her pace as she alternated between walking and running in an effort to reach safety.
Prosecutor Ian Windridge told Newcastle Crown Court that Dodds waited until the woman reached a secluded spot at the Gateshead end of the High Level Bridge before launching his attack. He pounced from behind, pulling her to the ground with the clear intention of raping her.
A Courageous Fight for Survival
The victim, a complete stranger to Dodds, showed immense bravery during what was described as a 'prolonged struggle' lasting several minutes. In a desperate bid to fend him off, she put her fingers in his mouth and fought back fiercely, managing to prevent him from removing her clothing.
Her resistance caused an injury to Dodds's head during the confrontation. Eventually, after four or five minutes of fighting, the attacker gave up and walked back across the bridge, leaving his victim traumatised.
Police Investigation and Court Sentencing
Police identified Dodds through extensive CCTV footage, which showed him wearing a distinctive Newcastle United top with white sleeves. The investigation revealed he had later attended hospital. His DNA was found under the victim's fingernails and on her clothing.
Initially, Dodds denied any wrongdoing and claimed he could not remember the incident. However, he later pleaded guilty to attempted rape. Judge Tom Moran jailed him for 63 months, with an extended licence period of two years. Dodds, of Ashington, must also sign the sex offenders' register indefinitely and is subject to an indefinite restraining order.
In a powerful victim impact statement, the woman described her ongoing anxiety and fear. "I'm more scared to be out in public and find myself wondering if someone is behind me constantly," she said. "I would not wish anyone to go through what happened to me."
Defence barrister Mairi Clancy stated that Dodds had been drinking and had mental health problems, calling the attack an "isolated and out of character incident." Judge Moran, however, praised the victim's 'great courage' and emphasised that Dodds had persisted in his attack despite her clear resistance.
