Ryan Theaker

Ryan Theaker, 30, was sentenced at Liverpool Crown Court to 11 years in custody, followed by an extended five-year licence period, after being declared a dangerous offender by Judge Brian Cummings KC. Theaker had been convicted of rape, sexual assault, and assault by penetration following a trial.

The court heard that while off duty, Theaker subjected his victim to an 82-minute violent attack in a Liverpool hotel room in 2023. Audio recordings captured the victim repeatedly asking him to stop as he committed the offences, which included forced use of sexual restraints and sex toys, as well as taking non-consensual photographs. Judge Cummings noted that Theaker's actions caused the victim significant psychological trauma, noting that his behaviour contributed to a serious suicide attempt by the victim.

During sentencing, the court heard from the victim, who read a personal statement describing the impact of the attack. While the defence submitted that Theaker had been an officer of good standing, the judge emphasised the severity of the crimes. Following the reporting of the offences in August 2024, Theaker was suspended from Merseyside Police and resigned prior to misconduct proceedings that would have resulted in his dismissal.