Man sentenced to 13 years in prison following an investigation into a rape and assault in Tameside in 2021

Kami Gaston (09/09/2002) of Lumn Road, Hyde has been sentenced to 13 years in prison plus an eight-year extended licence period after being found guilty of one count of rape and a section 47 assault.

It was heard in court that Gaston went on a walk through woods with a woman in Hattersley, and whilst there raped her. Another woman walking her dog in the woods was passing and heard the victim shouting for help and went over.

Gaston then proceeded to assault the dog walker, by knocking her to the floor and then snatching her mobile phone out of her hands whilst threatening her. He threw her phone into the bushes and ran from the scene taking the victim with him.

Following a report made to police, an investigation was quickly launched and he was subsequently arrested and charged for these offences.

Kami Gaston

Detective Constable Ian Thomson of GMP’s Tameside district, said: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank the victim for her bravery throughout this investigation and for having the courage to report this information and I would also like to extend my thanks to the woman who was assaulted after confronting Gaston and helping the victim who bravely intervened and stopped this horrific assault.

“Multiple detectives and officers from Tameside’s Crime Investigation Department dedicated their efforts to ensure that the victim received justice. I hope this conviction goes someway in doing this.

“Today’s sentencing comes after a long and meticulous investigation. Gaston’s behaviour is completely unacceptable, and I hope this result sends a stark warning to offenders that this behaviour will not be tolerated in Greater Manchester.”

Support Available

If you or someone you know has been a victim of rape or sexual assault, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police by calling 101 or 999 in an emergency.

You can also report information and crimes on our website (www.gmp.police.uk) using the 'report' tool. Alternatively, you can report information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

There are also lots of organisations and support agencies available across Greater Manchester that can help and provide support for you. For more information on rape and serious sexual assault and the support services available to you, please visit our support pages.

Support for Rape and Sexual Assault:

St. Mary's Sexual Assault Referral Centre - Manchester provides a comprehensive and co-ordinated response to men, women and children who live or have been sexually assaulted within Greater Manchester. They offer forensic medical examinations, practical and emotional support as well as a counselling service for all ages. Services are available on a 24-hour basis and can be accessed by calling 0161 276 6515.

Greater Manchester Rape Crisis - is a confidential information, support and counselling service run by women for women over 18 who have been raped or sexually abused at any time in their lives. Call on 0161 273 4500 or email [email protected]

Survivors Manchester - provides specialist trauma informed support to male victims in Greater Manchester who have experienced sexual abuse, rape, or sexual exploitation. Call 0161 236 2182.

Support for Domestic Abuse:

SafeLives.org.uk
Providing domestic abuse support and guidance.

National Domestic Abuse Helpline
Free 24-hour helpline, guidance and support for victims.

National Centre for Domestic Violence
Provides a free service that lets anyone who has recently suffered from, or been threatened with, domestic abuse apply for an emergency court injunction.

Victim Support
Free and confidential help to victims of crime, witnesses, their family and friends with 24-hour live chat and helpline available.

Women’s Aid Domestic Violence Helpline
Free 24-hour national helpline run by Women’s Aid and Refuge.