Man Given Suspended Sentence for Sexual Assault, Blamed Cocaine

An individual who attributed his sexual assault of a woman to cocaine use has received a suspended prison sentence. Gary McCaffery, 45, reportedly disregarded his victim’s requests to cease during the assault in February, according to proceedings at Newcastle Crown Court. Prosecutors stated that McCaffery, a father of six, subsequently sent the woman messages stating, “I’m so sorry” and “that’s why I don’t take [cocaine]”. The victim described McCaffery’s conduct as “unacceptable and unforgivable,” noting that it had caused significant mental health problems. McCaffery was sentenced to one year in prison, suspended for two years, following his admission of sexual assault. Judge Nathan Adams stated that McCaffery, residing on Victoria Road East in Hebburn, South Tyneside, repeatedly exposed himself to the woman, uttering “you know you want it.” The judge added that McCaffery also requested her to perform sex acts before groping her. The court was informed that he sent the apologetic messages via Facebook the subsequent day. The judge commented that the woman endured a “terrible ordeal” due to McCaffery’s “very persistent” and “wholly inappropriate” behavior. During the court proceedings, it was revealed that the defendant informed probation officers he had no recollection of the assault but expressed being “highly ashamed” and having “made a mess of his life.” Additionally, the court was apprised of his history of depression and alcoholism. As a condition of his sentence, McCaffrey is mandated to participate in rehabilitation sessions addressing alcohol, mental health, and sexual offenses.