James Murray, a 45-year-old man from Weston-super-Mare, has been sentenced to nine years in prison after pleading guilty to multiple offenses including sexual assault and perverting the course of justice. The Bristol Crown Court heard that Murray sexually assaulted a vulnerable woman when she was unable to consent and recorded the assault on his phone for his own gratification.
Paramedics were called to the victim’s residence after she was found in distress. Upon investigation, the victim disclosed the assault, prompting police action. Following Murray’s remand to custody, he attempted to discourage the victim from pressing charges by sending her multiple letters, seeking to prevent her involvement with law enforcement.
In addition to these charges, Murray was also convicted of careless driving after a separate incident where he nearly hit two pedestrians and crashed through a fence before fleeing the scene. As a result, he received nine penalty points on his provisional driving license.
READ MORE: Two Hospitalized with Life-Threatening Injuries After Crash Near Garden Centre
READ MORE: Pub Trade Faces Struggle as North Somerset Loses a Pub Every Two Weeks
Detective Constable Jordan Prince praised the victim’s exceptional bravery throughout the investigation and court process, highlighting her courage in speaking out and supporting police enquiries. DC Prince condemned Murray’s actions as “vile” and noted his lack of remorse.
During sentencing, His Honour Judge Burgess KC described Murray’s conduct as “distressing” and “degrading,” emphasizing that Murray treated the victim as an “inanimate object” solely for his “perverted gratification” without any respect for her wellbeing or feelings.
Alongside his prison sentence, Murray will be placed on the Sex Offenders Register for life, ensuring he cannot work with vulnerable children or adults in the future. He has also been subject to a 15-year restraining order.
Avon and Somerset Police reaffirmed their commitment to supporting victims and encouraged others affected by sexual offenses to come forward and seek justice.