Ryan Kerr

Ryan Kerr, a 34-year-old man from Wells, was sentenced to over six years in prison for raping a woman in 2023. The incident occurred in July 2023 at a house where the victim was sleeping, as reported by Avon and Somerset Police in their official news release.

Kerr denied the rape charge throughout the investigation and trial, asserting that the encounter was consensual. However, following a thorough investigation led by the specialist rape and serious sexual offences team under Operation Bluestone, he was arrested and charged. The case proceeded to trial at Taunton Crown Court, where a jury found him guilty in December after hearing the evidence.

On 6 March 2024, Kerr appeared for sentencing at Bristol Crown Court. The judge imposed a custodial sentence of six years and nine months. Additionally, an indefinite restraining order was granted, prohibiting Kerr from any contact with the victim. Detective Constable Venetia Kelly, who led the investigation, commended the victim's courage, stating: "I would like to commend the courage shown by the victim throughout the investigation and trial. She was offended against in the most heinous way and I hope that the sentence imposed provides her with some comfort as she looks to rebuild her life." She further noted Kerr's refusal to admit guilt had only prolonged the victim's suffering.

The conviction underscores the commitment of Avon and Somerset Police to tackling serious sexual offences, with the force highlighting the importance of reporting such crimes promptly.