Stockport Man Jailed 10 Years for Shocking Sexual Assaults on Colleagues
James Paterson from Cheadle, Stockport, was handed a hefty 10-year prison sentence yesterday (Thursday 11 July 2024) at Bolton Crown Court. The 10-year term follows his conviction in March 2024 for multiple sexual assault offences against three female colleagues.
Gruesome Crimes on Work Nights Out
Paterson committed his vile attacks while working with the victims at a company in Didsbury, South Manchester. The offences occurred during company-sponsored social events after work. In June 2019, after a night out celebrating, one victim woke up to being sexually assaulted in a shared flat. Despite her clear refusals, Paterson forced himself on her more than once.
She bravely reported the horror to a friend and colleagues, who passed it on to the company.
A few months later, in September 2019, Paterson offered to take another woman home from a Didsbury event. Once at her flat, he made unwelcome advances which were again rejected. She later woke to Paterson crouched by her bedside and him sexually assaulting her without consent.
More Victims Speak Out
In July 2020, at a social gathering in Wilmslow, Paterson touched a third victim inappropriately while she slept in a separate room. She immediately sought help, telling a friend in distress. Once police launched an investigation, further reports were made to safeguard victims and crack down on Paterson’s crimes.
Despite denying all allegations, Paterson was found guilty on five counts related to three victims.
Savage Sentence and Lifetime Punishments
- 10 years imprisonment – must serve two-thirds before parole consideration
- 3 years on licence after release
- Lifetime inclusion on the sex offender register
- Restraining orders protecting the victims for life
Detective Inspector Kelly, City of Manchester South, praised the victims:
“I want to commend the bravery, courage, and resilience of the victims for coming forward and helping secure this conviction. Paterson’s despicable actions will no longer threaten women in our community.
“These assaults were completely non-consensual. This case is a powerful reminder for everyone to respect personal boundaries. If anyone has witnessed or experienced similar abuse, we are here to listen and provide support. No one should feel alone.”
Help and Support for Victims
If you or someone you know has suffered sexual assault or rape, don’t stay silent. Contact police on 101 or 999 in emergency. You can also report crimes anonymously to 123.
Remember, speaking out is the first step to justice and healing.
