A TAUNTON man who sexually assaulted a woman while she was asleep has been jailed for three and a half years.

David Braun, 53, was found guilty of sexual assault by penetration without consent.

The attack happened at a hotel in Coleford, Forest of Dean in December 2021.

The woman woke up while Braun was in the act of sexually assaulting her.

He was arrested and later charged with the offence.

Braun was found guilty on June 6 last year following a trial at Gloucester Crown Court.

The court was told in a hearing on Friday (January 26) how Braun had shown no remorse for his actions.

The judge had read the victim's personal statement which detailed how her whole world had been torn apart and how she does not believe any part of Braun is sorry for what he did to her.

Braun was told he must serve half his jail sentence before being released on licence.

Detective Constable Tom Newrick said: "Braun violated the victim when she was at her most vulnerable and his actions are appalling.

"The victim has been extremely brave throughout our investigation, working with us and giving evidence in court.

"I hope this outcome shows that cases of this nature will be dealt with robustly and with the utmost seriousness."

CPS South West District Crown Prosecutor Jill Macnamara said: "We are very pleased that we were able to deliver justice for the victim in this case.

"We want every victim of sexual assault to have the confidence to come forward to report abuse, in the knowledge that support is available and that the police and Crown Prosecution Service are committed to securing justice."

The judge said he had read statements which had been provided about Braun's character and that he would take mitigating factors into account when sentencing.

Gloucester Crown Court was told Braun was a man of previous good character and that his behaviour was out of character.

If you have experienced rape, sexual assault or abuse, and wish to report the crime, contact police by calling 101 or 999 in the case of an emergency.