Stefan Bolohan jailed for raping woman in Bridgwater

Stefan Bolohan, 39, of no fixed address, was jailed on Friday, May 24 at Taunton Crown Court, sitting at North Somerset Magistrates' Court.

A jury found him guilty in March of one count of rape, which took place on Friday, June 3, 2022.

The court heard how Bolohan had raped a woman on the green opposite Clarks Road.

On the following day, the attack was reported to police, who then carried out a CCTV trawl of the area. Bolohan, who has been described by Detective Inspector Claire Millington as a "danger to women",  was subsequently arrested following a CCTV appeal.

DI Millington said: “I want to thank the public for sharing our media appeal which ultimately assisted us in identifying Stefan Bolohan as the offender.

“The CCTV in this case showed that Bolohan was calculated and predatory, following the victim and, when she was isolated and in an area of darkness, he took the opportunity to attack her and subject her to a horrific ordeal.”

Reading out a statement in court, the victim said: “Since the night it happened, I have tried my best to continue with life for my family. But this is easier said than done.

“There are constant reminders, and even without those reminders, I struggle to block out the awful fears, anger, anxiety and questions.”

DI Millington added: “I cannot put into words the courage and bravery the victim has shown in not only coming forward to the police, but supporting the police investigation and giving evidence in court.”

Bolohan was sentenced to 13 years' imprisonment with an extended period of three years on licence by Judge Cook.

He was also ordered to sign onto the sex offenders' register. The judge granted a life-long restraining order against Bolohan not to contact the victim.

Victims of rape or sexual assault, recent or non-recent, can self-refer to The Bridge, a Sexual Assault Referral Centre available 24/7 365 days a year. Visit their website at www.thebridgecanhelp.org.uk or call 0117 342 6999.