Biddulph man convicted of rape

A man has been found guilty of rape offences following a non-recent rape.

Phillip Yoxall, 46, from the Biddulph area, appeared at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court on Friday (27 January) where he pleaded not guilty to three counts of raping a woman 16 years of age or over, engaging in controlling / coercive behaviour and assaulting a person thereby occasioning them actual bodily harm.

He will be sentenced at the same court on 17 March 2023.

Speaking following Yoxall’s conviction, Detective Sergeant Dawn Moody of the Rape and Serious Sexual Offences team, said: “The victim showed great courage in coming forward to report the abuse she suffered.

“I hope Yoxall’s conviction brings the victim some comfort and helps her come to terms with her experience.

“The public should know that we take reports of rape extremely seriously - you will be listened to, you will be supported and we will work to achieve justice for you.”

If you have been affected by sexual abuse, contact Staffordshire Police on Facebook, Twitter, or call 101.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or call 999 in an emergency .