AN ASHTON-UNDER-LYNE ‘monster’ has been jailed for a minimum of 13 years after a campaign of physical and sexual abuse against a woman.
Ryan Schofield subjected his victim to several traumatic incidents after befriending her online.
The 34-year-old was originally arrested for being in breach of his Sexual Harm Prevention Order, but officers found evidence on his phone of him abusing her.
Between March and October 2022, Schofield – of Whiteacre Road – subjected his victim to a string of attacks.
Now after pleading guilty to making threats to kill, assault, rape, controlling and coercive behaviour and false imprisonment, he was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 13 years at Bolton Crown Court on Thursday, April 3.
Detective Constable Chris Doran, of Greater Manchester Police’s Tameside Challenger Team, said: “Firstly, I would like to commend the bravery of the victim in this case.
“I cannot begin to imagine her pain and suffering but hope she finds solace in the sentence this monster was handed.
“Greater Manchester Police takes domestic violence and sexual offences very seriously and I would like to highlight this case as an example of this.
“If you are a victim of domestic or sexual offences you will be heard.
“This sentencing is testament to our investigation team in providing the good work bringing Schofield to justice.”
GMP doubled the number of rape outcomes in the year ending May 2024 compared to year ending May 2021 – 209 to 426 – and domestic abuse offences are down 13.7 per cent from the year ending May 2023.
If you or someone you know has been raped or sexually assaulted, GMP encourages you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police, or a support agency so you can get the help and support available.
Greater Manchester Police can be contacted via 101 or through the Live Chat function on the website, www.gmp.police.uk.
Reports can also be made anonymously through the independent charity – Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
How to get help
Saint Mary’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre, Manchester provides a comprehensive and co-ordinated response to men, women and children who live or have been sexually assaulted within Greater Manchester.
They offer forensic medical examinations, practical and emotional support as well as a counselling service for all ages.
Services are available on a 24-hour basis and can be accessed by calling 0161 276 6515.
Greater Manchester Rape Crisis is a confidential information, support and counselling service run by women for women over 18 who have been raped or sexually abused at any time in their lives.
Call on 0161 273 4500 or email help@manchesterrapecrisis.co.uk
We Are Survivors Manchester – provides specialist trauma informed support to male victims in Greater Manchester who have experienced sexual abuse, rape, or sexual exploitation.
Call 0161 236 2182.