A man has been sentenced to 10 years and 6 months in prison after being found guilty of a series of sexual and violent offences against a woman.

Ainsley France (20/11/1997), of Lever Street, Radcliffe, was sentenced to 10 years and 6 months imprisonment after being convicted of two counts of rape, sexual assault and coercive and controlling behaviour.

A thorough investigation by officers from Bury CID uncovered overwhelming evidence of France’s sustained campaign of abuse and controlling behaviour towards the victim.

The investigation established that France repeatedly stalked the victim while she was out in public with friends and family.

France went on to rape and sexually assault the victim on multiple occasions. Despite being told to stop, he continued his abuse and mocked the victim.

The evidence gathered by investigators, alongside the victim’s courage in supporting the prosecution, resulted in France being found guilty of all offences.

Detective Constable Christopher Davis, from Bury CID, said: “The victim has shown incredible strength and courage throughout this investigation and without her determination a dangerous offender may not have been brought to justice.

“She was subjected to sustained abuse, violence and intimidation which left her isolated, frightened and living under the constant threat of further harm.

“While the sentence cannot undo the trauma she has suffered, we hope it provides some measure of closure and allows her to move forward knowing that France can no longer harm her or others.

“This case demonstrates our commitment to pursuing those who commit offences of this nature and ensuring they are held accountable for their actions.

“I would urge anyone who has experienced sexual abuse, stalking or controlling behaviour to come forward and report it. You will be listened to, supported and treated with the utmost care throughout any investigation.”

Support Available

If you or someone you know has been a victim of rape or sexual assault, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police by calling 101 or 999 in an emergency.

You can also report information and crimes on our website (www.gmp.police.uk).

Alternatively, you can report information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

There are also lots of organisations and support agencies available across Greater Manchester and nationally that can help and provide support for you.

For more information and to find the support services available to you, please visit our support pages.

Support for Rape and Sexual Assault:

St. 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.

Trafford Rape Crisis and Manchester Rape Crisis are run by women for women who have experienced rape and sexual abuse. They are both confidential and can provide 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.

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.

Credit image Greater Manchester Police