A 39-year-old Scarborough man has been sentenced to eight and a half years in prison for a rape committed more than two years ago, following a last-minute guilty plea.
A detective has praised a “courageous” rape survivor who fought to secure justice against her attacker.
At York Crown Court yesterday (Tuesday 8 September 2026), Scarborough man Phill Blunt was jailed for eight and a half years for the rape which occurred at an address in the local area more than two years ago.
The 39-year-old was due to stand trial for the offence in July this year, but he changed his plea to guilty at the last moment.
Up until then, the victim was preparing to give evidence at court.
As well as the custodial sentence, Blunt has also been made subject to a restraining order to protect the victim in the future and placed on the Register of Sex Offenders indefinitely.
Detective Constable Jack McCabe, of the Scarborough and Ryedale Safeguarding Investigation Team, said:
“The survivor of this sickening offence has been nothing but courageous during this long-running investigation and court proceedings.
“Her strength and determination have shone throughout, and I truly hope she can now begin to build a happier future now that Blunt is behind bars for a considerable length of time.”
DC McCabe added:
“As for Blunt, at least he finally admitted his guilt and spared the victim the additional trauma of reliving the rape during a trial.
“Thankfully, victims can provide evidence by video link these days, and defendants are often screened from victims' view if attending court in person.
“Victims of sexual crimes also have their anonymity protected for the rest of their lives by law.
“Ultimately, this case shows that those who commit rape do face the consequences of their despicable actions, and that victims receive professional support and care throughout from the police and our partner agencies.
“If you or someone you know needs our help, please come forward. We are here for you.”
In her victim personal statement, she said:
“Reporting him to the police was one of the hardest things I have ever done, but it was also the best decision I could have made.”
North Yorkshire Police offer the following advice on reporting rape and sexual abuse:
Reporting rape and sexual abuse - no matter how long ago it happened:
- Make a report via our website or call 101 and speak to the Force Control Room.
- If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, always dial 999 for an emergency response.
- IDAS is an independent charity that supports victims of sexual violence and abuse regardless of whether you have reported it to the police.
- Anyone concerned about a child can contact the NSPCC Helpline for advice on 0808 800 5000. Adult victims of non-recent sexual abuse can also get in touch for support.
- Childline is available for young people on 0800 1111 or at Childline
- Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) - If you prefer not to go direct to the police and are not in immediate danger, can contact North Yorkshire’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC), on 0330 223 0362 or visit acerhousesarc.co.uk
- You can also contact the Supporting Victims in North Yorkshire at supportingvictims.org or call 01609 643100.
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