Jonathon Newby, 34, of Gypsey Road, Bridlington, refuted the allegations of three counts of rape, employing an offensive weapon for intimidation, possessing a weapon with the intent to perpetrate a sexual offence, and inflicting grievous bodily injury.
After a nine-day trial, a jury convicted Jonathon Newby on all charges. He was remanded for sentencing at Grimsby Crown Court on Monday, February 3, 2025.
In the early hours of Sunday, March 19, 2023, Jonathon Newby, donned in a face covering and sweatshirt, concealed himself in the shadows before trailing the victim for approximately thirty minutes as she returned home from an evening out.
In the vicinity of a forested area on Bessingby Industrial Estate, he assaulted her from behind with a bladed object, subsequently raping her and leaving the scene.
A woman communicated with two officers conducting a high-visibility patrol in the Ramsey Road vicinity, after which Jonathon Newby’s description was disseminated around Humberside Police officers.
An area search was conducted, and Newby was swiftly located walking in the direction of Bessingby Road, back towards the scene of the crime.
He was arrested and immediately taken into custody for questioning, where he remained until he was charged with the offences three days later.
Officer in the case Detective Constable Ethan Anderson from our Protecting Vulnerable People Unit said: “I cannot begin to put into words the bravery and courage the woman has shown throughout the investigation and court proceedings, and I want to offer my sincerest thanks and praise as she has helped take an evil man off our streets.
“Jonathon Newby is a sexual predator who subjected a woman to a horrific and utterly traumatising ordeal for his own perverse needs.
“By refusing to admit his despicable crimes he has then put her through further torment, having to relive the ordeal in a trial. I hope the result today brings her some sense of justice.
“I hope today’s result also helps to reassure the community of Bridlington, and the wider community of the Humberside Police area, that we will never tolerate or condone any form of violence against women or girls and will always prioritise safeguarding victims and protecting communities.
“To any victims of rape or sexual assault, I would urge you to please, come forward and report it to us.
“We will do all we can to take action against those responsible and bring them to justice. By working closely with other organisations, such as charities, agencies, and local authorities, we can also ensure you are offered the help and support that is needed following these types of offences.
“You can report the crime directly to us through our 101 number, or 999 in an emergency, or you can speak to the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555 111.”
If you or anyone you know have been affected by the people highlighted in this article, then please report those individuals to the Police on 101 (999 if an emergency) or visit their online resources for further details of the options for reporting a crime. You can also make a report at Crimestoppers should you wish to be completely anonymous. There is help available on our support links page.