Rapist who travelled miles to stalk victim jailed

A judge said Michael Lesko "repeatedly" sought to place blame on everyone but himself

A "sexual predator" who travelled 120 miles (193 km) to stalk his victim after he had previously raped her has been jailed for 10 years.

Michael Lesko, 29, had travelled from his home in Bridlington, East Yorkshire, to Durham in October where he stalked the woman, got on the same bus as her and then followed her home.

Police also said the victim had gone inside a pub to get away from him, only leaving when she thought he had left, but he had been waiting outside and went on to assault her.

He was charged and found guilty of rape, sexual assault, stalking and assault following a trial in March.

In addition to the 10 years in jail, Lesko will face three years on extended licence, as well as an indefinite sexual harm prevention order and restraining order.

'Controlling and dangerous'

His victim reported the incident to the police, also telling officers she had been sexually assaulted by Lesko and raped on another occasion by him.

Judge Richard Bennett told him: "You repeatedly seek to place blame on everyone but yourself, and you completely failed to take any responsibility for your conduct.

"You are someone who is a sexual predator who has no insight into your offending."

Det Gary Tinkler said: "Lesko is a controlling and dangerous offender, who poses a high risk to women.

"[He] has shown no remorse and was described during sentencing as living in a fantasy world where he takes no responsibility for his own actions.

"I would like to praise the victim involved in this case whose courage has led to a conviction.

"Hopefully, she can now close this horrific chapter and can begin to move on with her life."