A man has been jailed for 15 years after he raped a woman in Aldershot.

Steven Bull, 30, of Grosvenor Road, Aldershot, attacked and raped the woman – who was aged in her 30s – multiple times in 2021.

A court heard that Bull’s behaviour was violent and controlling. He slapped her face, punched her in the ribs and hit her arms and legs. His attacks left the victim with black eyes and bite marks.

Officers launched an investigation, and Bull was arrested and charged by officers. Following a trial, he was found guilty of:

• Rape a woman 16 years of age or over x 2
• Engage in controlling / coercive behaviour

Bull was jailed for a total of 15 years at Salisbury Crown Court on Friday 7 November.

Detective Constable Graeme Calver, from Amberstone North, said: “Firstly, I would like to praise the victim in this case for her bravery and courage throughout the investigation.

“No one should have to feel in fear of their safety, and everyone should feel safe within our communities, and I want to be clear that violence of any kind will not be tolerated.

“I hope the victim is able to try and move forward and rebuild her life now he is in prison. Hopefully this result sends a clear message to those who commit violent and sexual offences, you will be pursued, we will catch you and you will be dealt with robustly.”

Serious sexual offences are one of the most devastating crimes a person can survive and that’s why we prioritise it.

If you have been affected by sexual abuse, you can report this to police by calling 101. You will be treated in the strictest of confidence and we will provide you with the help and support you need.

We recognise not everyone who has experienced this type of abuse has the confidence to report to police. There are support services out there that can offer help to you, completely independent of the police, should you need support.

For more information on where to seek support, or how to make a report to police, please visit our website: https://www.hampshire.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/rsa/rape-and-sexual-assault/