A MAN who raped a woman at her home in Ellesmere Port has been sentenced to seven years in prison.

Dale Byrne, of Alexander Road, Seaforth, appeared at Liverpool Crown Court on Friday, August 11 where he was sentenced.

The 27-year-old had previously pleaded not guilty to rape but was found guilty by a jury during an earlier trial in July.

Byrne had met the victim through a dating website two months prior and had arranged to meet up.

He went to the victim’s home on Friday October 1 2021 where he raped her.

The victim reported the offence to Cheshire Police who launched a full investigation.

Byrne was arrested and subsequently charged with rape and sexual assault.

'Bryne believed that he was above the law'

DC Josie Fergus said: "Byrne believed that he was above the law and thought that he could do whatever he wanted. Byrne has shown no remorse throughout the investigation or the trial.

"He sexually assaulted and forcibly raped the victim, despite the fact that the victim had already told him from the start that she did not want to have sex and she told him repeatedly to stop. His actions have left her emotionally scarred as a result.

"Thankfully, due to the victim’s bravery and courage in coming forward and talking about what happened, Byrne is now facing the consequences behind bars.

"I hope that this sentence will provide some comfort to the victim and allow her to move forward with her life."

Byrne has also been ordered to sign on the sex offenders register indefinitely along with a restraining order to prevent him ever contacting the victim again.

Cheshire Police have specialist officers who provide support to victims and work with services dedicated to giving victims the help and advice they need. If you have been a victim of a sexual offence, call Cheshire Police on 101.