A dangerous individual who preys on women has been jailed for 15 years after being convicted of rape, assault, and intentional strangulation in Telford. Mark Hirons, 38, from Lydbury North, was found guilty of the horrific offences following a trial at Shrewsbury Crown Court.
Police Investigation and Arrest
West Mercia Police officers were first made aware of the offences in May last year after the victim bravely reported the incident. An investigation was swiftly launched, leading to the subsequent arrest of Hirons. The 38-year-old was later charged and stood trial, where he was found guilty in November 2025.
Court Sentencing and Restraining Order
On February 9, Hirons was sentenced at Shrewsbury Crown Court to 15 years in prison. In addition to the lengthy jail term, he was also given a restraining order to further protect the victim and prevent future contact.
Detective Commends Victim's Bravery
Speaking after the case, Detective Constable Darren Wincott from Telford's Protecting Vulnerable People team expressed gratitude for the sentence. "I am very grateful for the sentence the judge has handed to Hirons, who is clearly a very dangerous individual who preys on women," he stated.
DC Wincott continued, "I would like to commend the victim in this, who has been incredibly brave throughout this investigation. I hope the sentence can offer her some form of closure and will enable her to move forward with her life."
Community Impact and Safety Message
The case highlights the ongoing efforts of West Mercia Police to protect vulnerable individuals in the community. The successful prosecution and substantial sentence send a strong message about the seriousness of such crimes and the commitment to holding perpetrators accountable.
Authorities encourage anyone who has been a victim of similar offences to come forward and report incidents to police, assuring that support and thorough investigations will follow.
