A MAN has been found guilty of raping a woman and then tormenting her afterwards with a series of "emotionally blackmailing" letters.

A court heard how Paul Watts, 29, of Gant Court, Waltham Abbey, attacked the woman and then conspired with his own mother to send his victim a series of intimidating notes in the following days.

Watts raped the woman in London Road, Hemel Hempstead, in the early hours of Sunday June 7 last year.

Police were called by residents who were woken by the woman's screams and who then witnessed Watts attacking her.

Watts had pleaded not guilty to rape and assault but was found guilty by a jury at St Albans Crown Court on Thursday May 6.

He was also convicted of perverting the course of justice along with his mother, 57-year-old Victoria Watts, also of Gant Court.

Detective Inspector Steve Keating, from the Sexual Offences Investigation Team (SOIT) at Hertfordshire Constabulary, said: “This was a difficult investigation which was thoroughly investigated by the SOIT.

"The officer in the case worked tirelessly with the victim to ensure she was comfortable in giving her evidence and supported her through the investigation process. His professionalism, hard work and dedication enabled the barrister to present a strong case at court.

“The SOIT deals with all rape investigations reported in Hertfordshire.

"It is very difficult to obtain convictions for rape for a number of reasons, but I hope this result will help other victims to come forward in the knowledge that we investigate these cases thoroughly to ensure offenders are brought to justice."

Judge Stephen Gullick sentenced Victoria Watts to a two year conditional discharge.

Paul Watts will be sentenced on Tuesday June 8.