A man from Stoke-on-Trent has been sentenced to seven years in prison for rape, with police commending the survivor for her immense courage in reporting the crime.
Details of the attack and conviction
Mark Bardell, aged 36, of Oakhill, Stoke-on-Trent, was found guilty of rape following a trial at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court. The attack occurred inside his home in November 2021.
The court heard that Bardell forced himself on the woman despite her telling him 'no' on multiple occasions. He continued his assault, ignoring her repeated refusals.
Investigation and sentencing
Following the attack, the survivor contacted Staffordshire Police to report the incident. Officers conducted an investigation, securing the evidence required to charge Bardell.
He was sentenced on Monday, December 1. In addition to the seven-year prison term, Bardell was placed on the Sex Offenders Register indefinitely.
Police praise for survivor's courage
Detective Constable Jennie Holland, of Staffordshire Police, led the praise for the victim. She said: "I’d like to commend the survivor in this case for her tremendous bravery in coming forward and telling us about what happened."
"Through her courage, and the work of the officers and staff in Staffordshire, we’ve been able to put another dangerous sex offender behind bars," DC Holland added.
The police force stated that the strength of the evidence gathered, combined with the survivor's bravery, was instrumental in the jury finding Bardell guilty.
Staffordshire Police reiterated their support for all survivors of sexual offences, encouraging them to come forward. They can be contacted by calling 101 or using the Live Chat function on the force's website.
