Eight Years for Bristol Rapist and Thief Yonas Gebreysus
Yonas Gebreysus, 32, was slammed with an eight-year prison sentence after a Bristol court found him guilty of rape and theft. The attack happened late on June 4, 2023, when Gebreysus accosted a woman on Lamb Street at around 11:30 pm.
Victim Targeted, Phone Stolen to Block Help
During the terrifying ordeal, Gebreysus chatted to the woman before leading her to a secluded spot and committing the rape. He then snatched her mobile phone, a move prosecutors called a deliberate attempt to stop her calling for help.
Denies Charges but Found Guilty, Sex Offender Register Entry
The trial in May saw Gebreysus, who has no fixed address, deny all accusations. But the jury wasn’t convinced and found him guilty. He must serve at least two-thirds of his sentence before parole is even considered. Plus, he’s now listed on the sex offenders’ register.
Victim’s Brave Statement Reveals Lasting Trauma
At sentencing in Bristol Crown Court, the victim bravely shared how the attack shattered her life. She’s cut back on socialising and set herself curfews to avoid being out late. “I feel shame and guilt about what happened to me even though it’s not my fault,” she said. “I don’t know what I did to cause this person to do what he did to me.”
“The perpetrator of any sexual offence is the only person who should feel shame or guilt. Our message to victims worried about coming forward is that we will believe you, investigate, and help you access support,” stated Acting Detective Sergeant Alastair Lea of Bristol Police.
Judge Moira Macmillan lauded the victim’s strength, praising her for refusing to let the attack define her life.
