‘I cannot begin to imagine her pain and suffering’
21:44, 03 Apr 2025Updated 21:52, 03 Apr 2025
Ryan Schofield(Image: Greater Manchester Police (GMP))
An evil rapist who subjected a woman to a campaign of ‘horrific’ abuse and threatened to kill her has been given a life sentence.
‘Monster’ Ryan Schofield’s crimes came to light after he was arrested for breaching a sexual harm prevention order.
Officers analysed his phone and found evidence of the sexual and physical abuse.
Schofield, 34, of Whiteacre Road, Ashton, is said to have befriended the woman online before engaging in ‘controlling behaviour’ over an eight-month period.
During this time he assaulted her, raped her, and kept her hostage, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said.
Schofield was sentenced at Bolton Crown Court(Image: MEN Media)
He pleaded guilty to making threats to kill, assault, rape, controlling and coercive behaviour and false imprisonment and was sentenced to life, with a minimum term of 13 years at Bolton Crown Court today (Thursday).
In a statement issued after the case, Detective Constable Chris Doran, GMP’s Tameside Challenger Team, said: “Firstly, I would like to commend the bravery of the victim in this case.
“I cannot begin to imagine her pain and suffering but hope she finds solace in the sentence this monster was handed today.
“Greater Manchester Police take domestic violence and sexual offences very seriously and I would like to highlight this case as an example of this. If you are a victim of domestic or sexual offences you will be heard.
“Today’s sentencing is testament to our investigation team in providing the good work bringing Schofield to justice.”
Where to go if you’ve been affected by rape or sexual assault
– Saint Mary’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre, Manchester provides a comprehensive and co-ordinated response to men, women and children who live, or have been sexually assaulted, within Greater Manchester. They offer forensic medical examinations, practical and emotional support as well as a counselling service for all ages. Services are available on a 24-hour basis and can be accessed by calling 0161 276 6515.
– Greater Manchester Rape Crisis is a confidential information, support and counselling service run by women for women over 18 who have been raped or sexually abused at any time in their lives. Call on 0161 273 4500 or email help@manchesterrapecrisis.co.uk
– We Are Survivors provides specialist trauma informed support to male victims in Greater Manchester who have experienced sexual abuse, rape or sexual exploitation. Call 0161 236 2182 for help.
– Always call 999 in an emergency