AN Eastville man has been jailed for raping and emotionally manipulating a woman.
Bibak Singh, aged 37, of Stonebridge Park, was given a nine-year sentence and a restraining order to protect the woman he attacked.
He must serve a minimum of two-thirds of his sentence in prison before he can be eligible for parole.
Avon & Somerset police said today that Singh was found guilty of rape and controlling and coercive behaviour during a six-day trial at Bristol Crown Court in March, and sentenced in April.
In a personal statement read to the court, the woman, who cannot be named, said: “I feel as if I am living a life sentence because of what was done to me.
“What he has done to me has permanently changed who I am, and how I live my life.
“By going through the police investigation and court, I hope I have shown how strong and resilient I can be after being put down and mistreated.
“I hope this shows others in my situation that you can be believed and that behaviour like this is not acceptable in any situation.”
As well as being jailed and banned from contacting his victim, Singh has been was added to the Sex Offenders Register.
‘Remarkable strength’
Afterwards, Detective Sergeant Matthew Beavis said: “The victim has shown remarkable strength and resilience throughout both the investigation and the court process.
“She has made clear her hope that others will feel empowered to come forward and stand up to those who seek to control and repress them.
“This was a deeply disturbing offence.
“Singh’s actions were calculated and sustained, and the victim has been left to live with the long‑term effects of his manipulation, violence and control.
“This case underlines the importance of empowering victims, and I hope it gives others the confidence to speak out and seek justice.”
Officers are urging anyone who has experienced sexual abuse to seek help, no matter how long ago it happened.
The force has information on its website about support.
People can also contact The Bridge sexual assault referral centre, which offers counselling, medical care and practical help all day, every day, independently of the police.
The Bridge can be reached on 0117 342 6999 or online at www.thebridgecanhelp.org.uk for more information.
*Police do not have a photo of Singh available to share with the public.