Al Winfindale

Al Winfindale, a 39-year-old man from Scarborough, has been imprisoned for five-and-a-half years following his admission of raping a woman known to him. The incident occurred in September 2022, as detailed in proceedings at York Crown Court.

The court heard that Winfindale carried out the rape against the victim, who was left feeling profoundly violated, degraded, and worthless as a result of the attack. More than a year after the event, the victim remained deeply shaken by the memory and had not yet disclosed the incident to her loved ones, according to statements from North Yorkshire Police.

Winfindale, residing on Ewart Street in Scarborough, pleaded guilty to the charge. On Friday, 26 July 2024, he was sentenced at York Crown Court, where he received the custodial term and was mandated to join the sex offenders register indefinitely. The sentencing reflects the severity of the crime, described by Detective Constable Nicholas Burton of North Yorkshire Police as a 'horrendous crime'.

DC Burton commended the victim's 'incredible strength' in reporting the offence and aiding the investigation, highlighting the challenges victims face in coming forward. The case underscores the ongoing support provided by North Yorkshire Police through specially trained officers for those affected by sexual assault or rape.