A County Durham predator who tried to cover his tracks following a string of sex attacks will now spend over a decade behind bars.
Durham's Andrew Harston, 39, will spend 14 years in prison after he was found guilty of four counts of sexual assault which took place in his city and Yarm.
Teesside Crown Court heard how in November 2020 Harston sexually assaulted a vulnerable woman inside a property and upon hearing it would be reported to the police, made up a story where he claimed everything was "consensual".
Harston was also found guilty of one count of sexual assault following an incident in Durham.
Investigating officer, Detective Constable Jonathan Pain from Stockton CID said: “Following the incident, Harston was informed it was going to be reported to police so he contacted the force ahead of the victim and fabricated a story where he claimed everything was consensual.
“Harston immediately tried to cover his tracks and evade his crimes, but officers saw through his lies, and he was arrested the same day that he called police. He was soon after charged.
“Prior to his trial date, we received information from Durham Constabulary to say they had also received a similar report from another victim who had been sexually assaulted by Harston. The trial was held so that the victims could simultaneously get justice at court.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the victims for their bravery in coming forward and reporting the crime and for their co-operation throughout the whole investigation.
“Today’s sentence is a clear warning to offenders committing crime like this that you will be caught, even if you try to be deceitful and lie about what you have done. Victims can have the confidence to come forward. You will be believed, and we will do everything in our power to bring criminals to justice.”
Detective Sergeant Clare Riley, from Durham Constabulary added: “Whilst under investigation for sexual offences in Cleveland, Harston went on to commit further offences here in Durham.
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“He showed extremely concerning predatory behaviour and above all showed no remorse for his actions by continuing to target further victims.
“I would like to praise the victim in this case who has found the criminal process extremely hard, having to relive what Harston put her through. I hope she can now move on with her life knowing he has been brought to justice.
“If you are suffering abuse, please know you are not alone – we will always listen to you. Call the police on 101, or 999 if you are in immediate danger.”
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