Police hope predator's sentence will help sex assault victims

Brandon Bentley, now of Victoria Road in Northwich, was jailed for eight years after sexually assaulting and trying to rape a former neighbour.

During the trial, the 26-year-old repeatedly denied the allegations and claimed the victim was making it all up to get him in trouble.

Detective Sergeant Thomas Vass is hoping Bentley’s behaviour in court will not deter other victims of sexual assault from seeking justice.

He said: “Bentley is a sexual predator who thought he could take advantage of the victim in this case for his own sexual gratification.

“His lies have continued throughout this entire investigation, and he has shown no remorse or regard for the effects his actions would have on the victim.

“But thanks to the bravery of the victim throughout this investigation and the subsequent trial, as well as the hard work of officers, Bentley has been found guilty of his crimes.

“I hope this verdict will also serve as a reminder that we will do everything we can to tackle crimes of this nature and we encourage those who have been a victim of sexual offences to come forward and report them to us.

“We treat reports of sexual offences extremely seriously, and any allegations will be thoroughly investigated, with the wishes and needs of the victim as our main priority.”

READ MORE: Man jailed after trying to rape neighbour and claiming it was 'plan to frame him'

Brandon Bentley, of Victoria Road in Northwich (Image: Cheshire Police)

On November 13, 2021, Bentley, who at the time lived in Crewe, asked the victim to join him in his car, saying he was feeling suicidal and grieving the loss of his grandmother.

They sat talking in the car for an hour or so before Bentley attempted to kiss the victim.

She was able to escape the car and headed to her flat, with Bentley in pursuit.

In the flat, Bentley pushed the victim onto the bed before sexually assaulting her.

He then attempted to rape her in the hallway.

The victim reported it to the police the following day and Bentley was arrested on November 15, 2021.

Following questioning, he was charged with attempted rape, two counts of sexual assault, and causing a female to engage in non-penetrative sexual activity.

Following a trial at Chester Crown Court, he was found guilty by a majority verdict and on Friday (February 23) was sentenced to eight years, of which he will have to serve at least two-thirds before being released on licence.

He was also ordered to sign the sex offenders register and handed an indefinite restraining order against the victim.