Man who poses a ‘danger to women’ jailed for raping woman in Bridgwater

A 39-year-old man has been sentenced to 13 years in prison after being found guilty of raping a woman in Bridgwater. Stefan Bolohan, of no fixed address, was sentenced on Friday May 24 at Taunton Crown Court, sitting at North Somerset Magistrates’ Court, after a jury found him guilty of rape in March.

The court was informed that Bolohan raped a woman on the green area opposite Clarks Road in Bridgwater on Friday 3 June 2022. The incident was reported to police the following day (4 June) and detectives reviewed CCTV footage of the area to gather evidence.

After several investigations, the police launched a video appeal to identify a suspect. Thanks to the help of the public, the man was identified as Bolohan and taken into custody.

Read more:

Detective Inspector Claire Millington described Bolohan as a “danger to women” and expressed her gratitude that this was recognised in his sentencing. She added: “I would like to thank the public for sharing our media appeal, which ultimately helped us identify Stefan Bolohan as the perpetrator.

“The video footage in this case showed that Bolohan was calculating and predatory. He stalked the victim and took the opportunity to attack her and subject her to a gruesome ordeal when she was isolated and in a dark area.”

In a statement read out in court, the victim said: “Since the night it happened, I have tried my best to carry on with my family’s life. But that is easier said than done.”

“I am constantly reminded of it, and even without those reminders, I find it difficult to block out the terrible fear, anger, worry and questions.”

DI Millington added: “I cannot put into words the courage and bravery shown by the victim in not only contacting the police but also assisting the police investigation and giving evidence in court.”

Judge Cook sentenced Bolohan to 13 years in prison with an extended three-year probation period. Along with the sentence, Bolohan was ordered to sign the sex offender registry. The judge also issued a lifetime restraining order against Bolohan, prohibiting him from having any contact with the victim.

If you are a victim of rape or sexual assault, please come forward. It is never too late to report crimes to the police. Victims of rape or sexual assault, recent or not, can self-report to The Bridge, a 24 hour, 365 day a year support centre for victims of sexual assault. Visit the website at www.thebridgecanhelp.org.uk or call 0117 342 6999.

Want to be the first to receive the latest breaking news and top stories from Somerset? Click here to join our WhatsApp group. We also spoil our community members with special offers, promotions and advertising from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can always stop by. If you are curious, you can visit our Data protection.