Andrew Nicholson – Consett, County Durham

A man who raped two women, one of whom while she slept, has been jailed.

Andrew Nicholson admitted two counts of rape and two of sexual assault against three women in separate incidents

Two of his victims were unaware what he had done as they were asleep, while another woke during her ordeal, but Nicholson carried on the assault.

Detectives launched an investigation into the rape of one of the women, and it was during these enquiries that they discovered footage he had filmed himself of him raping another woman.

At Durham Crown Court last week, 30-year-old Nicholson, of Consett, was sentenced to 14 years in prison. He will have to serve two thirds before being released on licence.

He was also made subject of a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) and restraining orders against all three women. Both orders will last 15 years.

Detective Constable Hanna Liddle, of Durham Constabulary, said: “What Nicholson did was truly abhorrent. There are no excuses.

“I would like to commend the bravery of the three women, who have been through horrendous ordeals. I hope that now he is behind bars this will provide some sort of closure for them to start to rebuild their lives.”

To report a rape or sexual assault, call Durham Constabulary on 101, or dial 999 in an emergency.

If you’re more comfortable reporting online, you can visit our online reporting page here www.durham.police.uk/ro/report/rsa/alpha-v1/v1/rape-sexual-assault-other-sexual-offences/

If you’re not ready to speak to police, there are other agencies who can help:
• The Meadows Sexual Assault Referral Centre provides free, confidential healthcare and compassionate support to people who have experienced rape or sexual assault. Call0330 223 0099 or visit www.sarcdurham.co.uk
• The Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line is available 24/7and provides support for anyone who has been affected by rape or sexual assault. Call 0808 500 2222 or visit www.247sexualabusesupport.org.uk
• The Rape and Sexual Abuse Counselling Centre (RSACC) offers free, specialist support to anyone who has experienced any form of sexual violence at any time in their lives. Call 01325 354119, email info@rsacc-thecentre.org.uk or visit www.rsacc-thecentre.org.uk