Ryan Kerr, a 34-year-old man from Wells, Somerset, has been sentenced to six years and nine months in prison for raping a woman while she was asleep. The conviction follows a trial at Taunton Crown Court where a jury found Kerr guilty in December 2023.
The incident took place in July 2023 at a residence in Somerset. Kerr denied the offense, claiming the encounter was consensual; however, evidence presented during the trial led to his conviction. The investigation was conducted by Avon and Somerset Police’s specialist rape and serious sexual offences team, known as Operation Bluestone.
At the sentencing hearing at Bristol Crown Court, Kerr was also given an indefinite restraining order to protect the victim. Detective Constable Venetia Kelly emphasized the severe impact Kerr’s actions had on the woman, noting that his refusal to admit guilt further prolonged her suffering.
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“I commend the victim for her bravery throughout the investigation and trial,” DC Kelly said. “This sentence is an important step toward justice, and I hope it aids her in rebuilding her life after this terrible ordeal.”