An evil rapist who inflicted a campaign of “horrific” abuse on a woman he met online has been sentenced to life in prison.
Ryan Schofield, 34, of Whiteacre Road, Ashton-under-Lyne, was arrested for breaching a sexual harm prevention order—leading Greater Manchester Police (GMP) to uncover damning evidence of months of sexual and physical violence stored on his phone.
He pleaded guilty to rape, assault, making threats to kill, controlling and coercive behaviour, and false imprisonment. At Bolton Crown Court on Thursday, he was handed a life sentence, with a minimum term of 13 years before he can be considered for parole.
Schofield befriended the victim online before manipulating and isolating her during an eight-month reign of terror. GMP confirmed that during this period, he violently assaulted and raped her, subjected her to coercive control, and at times held her hostage.
Detective Constable Chris Doran of GMP’s Tameside Challenger Team praised the survivor’s courage in the wake of the sentencing:
“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.”
Support services are available to anyone experiencing domestic abuse or sexual violence. GMP urges victims to come forward, promising sensitive support and dedicated investigation from specialist officers.
