Devon man jailed for attempted rape and sexual assault

A 59-year-old man has been jailed for attempting to rape and sexually assault a woman in Newton Abbot. Graham Ford was found guilty of the two offenses by a jury at Exeter Crown Court on March 25.

He returned to court today and was sentenced to four years and eight months in prison. The offenses relate to an incident that occurred in May 2021.

The jury heard Ford approached the victim and sexually assaulted him before telling him to leave. Ford then approached the woman again and attempted to rape her. The victim left the area and immediately called police. Officers attended the scene and Ford was arrested.

Detective Constable Kathryn Jago said: “I would like to thank the victim for her bravery during the investigation and thank her for reporting the attack on her to Devon and Cornwall Police and assisting our investigation.”

“Ford has consistently denied responsibility for his actions, and it is the strength and bravery of the victim that led to the conviction and subsequent sentencing.”

“I would also like to thank the jury for recognizing this incident as an unprovoked and unwelcome attack on the victim

“Tackling violence against women and girls is a priority for Devon and Cornwall Police. I urge the public to tell us where they have been victims of crime. Your report will be treated with the importance, care and professionalism demonstrated in this case.”

Ford, of Rydon Gardens, Newton Abbot, was also placed on the sex offenders register.

You can report incidents of rape and sexual assault on the police website or through the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Advice and support is also offered here:

• National Rape Crisis Hotline 0808 802 9999
• Victim Care Unit (Devon and Cornwall) 01392 475900
• Devon and Cornwall Sexual Assault Referral Centers (SARC) 0300 3034626

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