A sex predator who stalked a woman across Newcastle city centre before attempting to rape her on a bridge in a violent early-hours attack has been sentenced to more than five years in prison.
Prolonged Struggle on the Bridge
Thomas Dodds, 22, targeted his victim near Central Station in the early hours of the morning, following her for approximately half a mile as she hurried home alone. Newcastle Crown Court heard he matched her pace, running when she ran and walking when she walked, maintaining a distance until they reached a secluded spot.
The attack occurred at around 4am at the Gateshead end of the High Level Bridge. Dodds pounced from behind, knocking the woman to the ground and attempting to rape her. Prosecutor Ian Windridge told the court the defendant had "waited until they reached a remote, isolated spot before attacking her with the intention of raping her."
Victim's Courage Thwarts Attack
The woman, a complete stranger to Dodds, fought back fiercely in what was described as a "prolonged struggle" lasting four to five minutes. She managed to prevent the full offence by putting her fingers in his mouth and resisting continuously, causing him a head injury.
"She fought back, which prevented the full offence being carried out," Mr Windridge stated. Judge Tom Moran later praised "the great courage of the victim in fighting you off."
Dodds eventually gave up and walked back across the bridge towards Newcastle. The victim was left shocked, upset, and with significant anxiety about being alone in public.
Investigation and Sentencing
Police identified Dodds through CCTV, which showed him wearing a distinctive Newcastle United top with white sleeves. He was tracked returning to a premises in Chinatown and it was established he had attended hospital. His DNA was found under the victim's fingernails and on her clothing.
Initially, Dodds denied any wrongdoing and claimed he could not remember the incident. He later pleaded guilty to attempted rape.
On January 13, 2026, at Newcastle Crown Court, Dodds, of Ashington and with no previous convictions, was jailed for 63 months (five years and three months). He received an extended licence period of two years, must sign the sex offenders' register indefinitely, and is subject to an indefinite restraining order.
In mitigation, defence barrister Mairi Clancy said Dodds had been drinking, had mental health problems, and described the incident as "isolated and out of character." Judge Moran, sentencing, said Dodds had "tried your best to carry out the full offence" despite the victim's clear resistance.
