Images have been released of a convicted rapist and his girlfriend who attempted to destroy evidence of his crimes by washing his clothes.
Aaron Davison, 31, climbed into bed with his victim in a Northumberland home in July 2020. He then sexually assaulted and raped the girl.
An investigation by police revealed that his partner at the time, Sarah Pringle, 29, had washed Davison’s clothing in a bid to prevent his prosecution and remove any evidence. She had also provided a false statement to officers in an attempt to mislead the police.
Aaron Davison, 31, climbed into bed with his victim in a Northumberland home in July 2020. He then sexually assaulted the girl before raping her.
An investigation by police revealed that his partner at the time, Sarah Pringle, 29, had washed Davison’s clothing in a bid to stop him being prosecuted and remove any evidence.
The victim informed her family about the incident, and they contacted Northumbria Police, who promptly arrested Davison. Despite his denial of the allegations, a complex and extensive investigation led by the force’s Safeguarding Department resulted in charges against Davison in May 2023 for three offenses: rape, sexual assault, and assault by penetration. Pringle was charged with one count of perverting the course of justice.
The pair stood trial at Newcastle Crown Court in May this year, where they were both found guilty of all charges. On Monday, Davison, of Lapwing Close, Blyth, was sentenced to 12 years in prison. Pringle, of Fontburn, Ellington, was sentenced to three years imprisonment. Additionally, Davison was made to sign the Sex Offenders Register for life.
Detective Constable Karen Douglas of Northumbria Police’s Safeguarding Department, who led the investigation, welcomed the sentence. She said, “Davison preyed on a teenager in a cold and careless way, subjecting her to the worst ordeal imaginable. He then lied about his crimes, not worrying at all about the long-term effects this would have on her. He is undoubtedly a danger to our wider communities.”
DC Douglas praised the victim for her bravery, stating, “I know it’s never easy to come forward, but her courage and composure during the investigation means he has been outed for what he is – a rapist.
She added, “No one should ever have to endure this type of assault, and support is available from our officers, charities, and the support services we work with day-in-day-out. Regardless of who you are, if you have ever been a victim of rape or any type of sexual assault, we’re here for you.
