Whitby, North Yorkshire – A man described as a “sadistic” rapist has been sentenced to 12 years in prison for subjecting a teenage girl to a horrifying sexual attack in North Yorkshire. Dwayne Anthony Rhoden, 34, lured the teenager to his rented bedsit in Whitby after meeting her in town late one night. The violent sexual assault took place inside the rented room in the early hours of the next day.
The victim managed to escape and report the incident to the police, leading to Rhoden’s arrest. Following a trial in which Rhoden was found guilty of multiple serious offenses, including rape and false imprisonment, he was sentenced at York Crown Court.
Detective Constable Matthew Edwards from North Yorkshire Police’s Scarborough and Ryedale Safeguarding Investigation Team led the investigation. He described the attack as sadistic and violent, emphasizing the victim’s courage in facing her assailant in court. Despite Rhoden’s attempts to deceive investigators and the court, the jury delivered a just conviction.
The sentencing included an extended three-year license and a Sexual Harm Prevention Order to protect the public from Rhoden’s actions in the future. The detective commended the victim’s bravery throughout the process, praising her determination to seek justice and holding offenders like Rhoden accountable.
In conclusion, the significant prison sentence given to Rhoden reflects the severity of the crimes committed against the victim. The detective’s words of encouragement support the victim in her journey towards healing and rebuilding her life with the help of her loved ones. Victims of such abhorrent crimes deserve justice, and this case serves as a reminder that perpetrators will be held accountable for their actions.