News / Crime
30-year-old from Devon jailed for raping teenager in Bristol
A man was jailed on Friday for raping a teenage girl in Bristol in 2022.
Thomas Mason from Crediton in Devon was sentenced to 57 months in prison at Bristol Crown Court after a jury found him unanimously guilty.
Mason met the then 19-year-old victim on a dating app. She said the incident had made it “incredibly difficult” for her to build relationships.
The 30-year-old man was sentenced at Bristol Crown Court on Friday – photo: Ellie Pipe
In a personal statement, the victim said: “My A-levels suffered. I went from achieving A grades in my mocks to receiving Bs and Cs because of flashbacks and panic during exams.
“I have always dreamed of a career in corporate law, but this path requires top grades. Each time I apply for opportunities, I am forced to explain my ‘mitigating circumstances’.
“Every application reminds me of what happened, and that it continues to hold me back.”
With dates of placements at law firms and “valuable” workshops often clashing with court dates, the young girl said she was left “reliving her trauma in a courtroom” when others were “building their futures”.
The 30-year-old man was arrested and charged after the victim reported the incident to the police.
Kate Hughes detective sergeant of Operation Bluestone, Avon and Somerset Police’s specialist rape and sexual offences team, said: “I want to commend the victim for the immense bravery she has shown in coming forward to report this incident.
“We fully recognise how incredibly difficult it can be to take that first step and place your trust in the police, and I hope today’s outcome gives her some sense of justice and closure.
“I hope this sentence sends a clear message that we will do everything in our power to bring those responsible for such crimes before the courts, and that victims who come forward will be listened to, believed, and supported every step of the way.”
Recent or non-recent rape and sexual assault can be reported by calling 101 or at www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/report/rape-and-sexual-assault/
Victims of sexual assaults or rapes can self-refer to The Bridge, a 24/7 sexual assault referral centre
Details of other charities or organisations that are experts in supporting victims can be found at www.thisisnotanexcuse.org.uk
Main photo: Avon and Somerset Police
Our newsletters emailed directly to you
