A RAPIST who subjected two women to terrifying ordeals is a dangerous attacker who has shown no remorse.

That was the message from a detective as she encouraged anyone who has suffered abuse to muster the courage to speak out.

Ian Beal, aged 55, of Spencer Street, Carlisle, was sentenced on Friday, December 7, at Carlisle Crown Court for two counts of rape and one count of sexual assault.

Beal was found guilty of the offences at a trial in October.

He must serve an extended five-year licence period and sign the sex offenders’ register for life.

Speaking after the sentencing, Detective Constable Susanne Hayward, from the North Cumbria Crime and Safeguarding Team, said: “I am pleased that he has been sentenced for his crimes.

“Both of his victims were subjected to repeated violent incidents and were made to feel as if they could not speak out about what had happened.

“Beal is a sinister individual who had no respect whatsoever for these two women.

“I would like to praise the victims for their bravery and also the other witnesses in this case for assisting us in bringing this offender to justice.

“I hope for both women involved that this can bring some form of closure.

“I would also like to thank the CPS and the legal team for helping us put this man behind bars.

DC Hayward added: “If there is anyone who has been a victim of any sexual offence I would urge them to contact us.

“We will investigate all offences sensitively. We, along with trusted partner agencies, can support you and make sure that offenders, like Beal, are brought to justice.”

Isla Chilton, Senior Crown Prosecutor for CPS North West said: “Ian Beal begins a prison sentence for raping two women and sexually assaulting one of them on more than one occasion.

“Throughout the case Beal denied committing any offences, claiming that the allegations had been maliciously made.

“However, after we presented a strong case of evidence against him, the jury found him unanimously guilty of two counts of rape and one count of sexual assault.

“The two victims have shown immense bravery in coming forward and taking a stand against their abuser.

“I sincerely hope that following today’s sentence, they can begin to move on with their lives in the knowledge that justice has been served.”

If you wish to report a crime or speak to an officer about an incident, contact Cumbria Police by calling 101.

Alternatively, the independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.

If you have been affected by rape or sexual assault, contact The Bridgeway Sexual Assault Support Service’s 24/7 free helpline on 0808 118 6432.