Victim of silent rapist vows not to let attack ruin life

A RAPIST who started his silent attack on a woman as she slept has been jailed.

- By ROB KENNEDY

David Charlton

The victim said when she woke up she had a “vague sense” someone was taking pictures on a phone. She then became aware her attacker - David Charlton - was on top of her and carrying out the attack.

As Charlton, who has previous for GBH with intent, was locked up for eight and a half years at Newcastle Crown Court, the woman told how the rape has had a serious impact but vowed not to let it ruin her life.

Sentencing Charlton, 41, of South-mead, Blakelaw, Newcastle, Judge Gavin Doig told him: “The victim fell asleep and woke to find the defendant touching her. He was on top of her and (sexually assaulted her).

“She objected orally and tried to push him away. Those efforts were unsuccessful.”

The woman said that while the rape didn’t last long, it felt like a long time and Charlton was silent throughout.