Scott Beattie of Peterlee attempted to rape woman as she slept

Scott Beattie’s victim woke up in July 2021 to find him in her bed, pulling down her underwear and attempting to rape her.

She ordered Beattie to leave before bravely contacting the police about her ordeal.

Read more: EXCLUSIVE | Family have 'more questions than answers' after report into grave blunder

The 45-year-old, from Peterlee, was later arrested by officers and appeared at Durham Crown Court on Friday (December 2) where he was found guilty of attempted rape.

LOCKED UP - Scott Beattie (Image: DURHAM CONSTABULARY)

He was locked up for four years and nine months and handed a 10-year restraining order.

Durham Constabulary Detective Constable Ben Slater, who led the police investigation, praised Beattie's victim for her bravery in reporting him to the police.

He said: “The victim was attacked as she slept at home in her bed, where she should have been able to feel safe and we are pleased that Beattie is now in prison where he can no longer pose a danger to any other woman.

To get more stories direct to your email basket go here 

“I would like to thank the victim in this case for the bravery she has shown in reporting Beattie to the police and being prepared to stand up and give evidence against him.

“Anyone who has been the victim of a sexual offence can have confidence that if they come forward to us we will fully investigate the case”.

Read next:

• Young men driving 'like idiots' before fatal collision killing family ‘matriarch
• STACK announces plans for another pop-up in North East - here's where​
• Man, 61, who died after he was found on North East street is named by police

If you want to read more great stories, why not subscribe to your Northern Echo for as little as £1.25 a week. Click here