A MAN from Gwynedd has today been sentenced to 11 years’ imprisonment for rape.

Thomas John Cato, 34, of Bristol House, Smithfield Street, Dolgellau, was sentenced at Caernarfon Crown Court on June 14.

He had been convicted of a rape that occurred in Dolgellau on November 9, 2022.

Cato received an 11-year custodial sentence, with an extended period of six years on license following his release.

READ MORE:

Bangor public meeting discusses combatting climate change

Gwynedd teenager pushed boy onto tracks at railway station

In addition, he was made the subject of a Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO), must register as a sex offender for life, and was handed an indefinite restraining order against the victim.

Investigating officer, Detective Constable Bethany Clarke, said: “Cato is a dangerous individual with a history of violent behaviour.

“The length of his sentence reflects the seriousness of the offence and the impact it has had on not just the victim, but on the local community.

“My thoughts are with the victim who has shown remarkable bravery throughout the investigation, and I hope that she can find closure and comfort in knowing that justice has been served.”

Detective Inspector Chris Hargrave, of the North Wales Amethyst Team, said: “We continue to be committed to bringing perpetrators of sexual crimes to justice.

“I would encourage anyone who wishes to report a sexual crime to come forward and speak to us.

“The Amethyst team is made up of specially trained officers to support victims through the investigation.

“We work closely with the Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) to provide confidential medical, practical and emotional support from specialist doctors, nurses and support workers.”