A rapist who assaulted and repeatedly bit a woman he met online has been jailed. 

Police have praised the victim after Dale Foster, also known as Dale Tray, from the Bishop Auckland area was sentenced at Teesside Crown Court.

The court was told the 37-year-old had met the victim online and after returning to her address carried out a violent attack in which he raped and assaulted the her, repeatedly biting her.The Northern Echo: Dale Foster, also known as Dale Tray

The incident was reported to Cleveland Police and officers from Stockton CID launched an investigation.

After examining CCTV footage, officers soon identified Foster as a suspect and arrested and charged him in connection with the incident.

Foster denied the offence but following a four-day trial he was convicted by jury of two counts of rape and assault by causing actual bodily harm (ABH).

He appeared at Teesside Crown Court on Tuesday October 31 for sentencing where he was jailed for nine years with four years on extended licence.

A sexual harm prevention order (SHPO) and a restraining order was also put in place.

Investigating officer, Abbie Winter, said: “This was a truly horrific incident made worse by the fact that Foster denied his crimes.

"The victim had to relive the trauma she had already endured whilst giving evidence in court.

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“I’m pleased the jury saw through Foster’s lies and that this dangerous offender is now serving time in prison. I hope this sentence will help the victim come to terms with their ordeal.

“I would like to thank the victim for her bravery in coming forward and for her unwavering support throughout the process. “If anyone would like to report an incident, whether for themselves or on behalf of another person, I would urge them to Cleveland Police on 101.”