A MAN who raped a woman and then tormented her with intimidating notes has been jailed for six years.

Paul Watts, 29, of Gant Court, Waltham Abbey, raped his victim in June last year on London Road in Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire.

Witnesses saw the attack after they were woken by the woman's shouts and reported the incident to police.

In the days following the attack, Watts left intimidating notes for his victim which the prosecution at his trial suggested were intended to emotionally blackmail the woman.

Watts had denied the charges against him but was convicted by a jury at St Albans Crown Court in May this year.

His sentencing date had been delayed after he repeatedly failed to show in court citing health issues.

As well as the prison sentence for rape, Watts will serve three months additional months for perverting the course of justice in relation to the notes he left.

His mother, 57-year-old Victoria Watts, also of Gant Court, was given a two year conditional discharge in May, after conspiring with her son in relation to the notes.

Detective Inspector Steve Keating, of 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.”

Watts will be added to the sex offenders register for life.