A MAN who admitted to raping the same woman on two separate occasions has been jailed for six years.
Patrick Gallagher, 29, of Enfield Close, Houghton Regis, Bedfordshire, pleaded guilty to the attacks in August and November 2019.
Following his sentencing at Luton Crown Court on Thursday, police described his actions as 'absolutely despicable'.
"Gallagher's behaviour is absolutely despicable," said DC Hayley Carroll, from Bedfordshire Police's Rape and Serious Sexual Offences team.
"He has committed the worst kind of sexual abuse for his own gratification, with no care or empathy for the victim in this case.
"I am glad he will be serving a lengthy prison sentence."
Ignored pleas to stop
In the first incident, Gallagher continued to rape the victim even after she repeatedly told him to stop, while on the second occasion she woke up to find Gallagher raping her.
Immediately after the second incident, the victim called a friend to stay in her home as Gallagher refused to leave.
A victim impact statement read out in court said the victim had suffered significant trauma as a result of the incidents, which continues to this day.
Gallagher was sentenced to three years in prison for the first offence and six years for the second.
The sentences will be served at the same time.
"Rape is a vile crime," added DC Hayley Carroll.
"We will stand shoulder to shoulder with victims and give them as much support as we possibly can, regardless of where and when the offences took place.
"I know it can be so difficult, but please — if someone has abused you, or you know someone who has been abused, please come forward and start your journey to get justice.
"We'll be with you every step of the way."
