A man from Staffordshire has been sentenced to 13 years in prison for a series of heinous crimes including rape and engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour.
A Campaign of Abuse
James Goulding, aged 35 and from Talke, subjected a woman to a sustained campaign of abuse between December 2024 and March 2025. The offences took place within Staffordshire.
Following the survivor's courageous decision to report the crimes, Staffordshire Police launched an investigation. Goulding was arrested but denied all allegations during questioning.
Justice Served at Crown Court
Despite his denials, police built a robust case against him. Goulding was found guilty and appeared at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court for sentencing on Thursday, December 11.
The court imposed a 13-year prison sentence. In addition to his custodial term, the judge handed down several stringent court orders designed to protect the public and the survivor for years to come.
Long-Term Safeguarding Orders
The court issued three key orders against Goulding:
- A Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) lasting for 20 years.
- Placement on the Sex Offenders Register indefinitely.
- A restraining order prohibiting any contact with the survivor.
Detective Constable Helena Cresswell, from Staffordshire Police's dedicated rape and serious sexual offences unit, led the praise for the survivor. "Goulding inflicted a campaign of abuse on the survivor and has been rightfully brought to justice for his heinous crimes," she stated.
"I hope this shows survivors of sexual offences that we are taking action every single day in Staffordshire against those responsible." DC Cresswell added, highlighting the force's commitment to investigating such crimes thoroughly.
The case underscores the severe legal consequences for coercive and controlling behaviour and sexual violence, and serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of survivors coming forward to report such offences.
