A dangerous sex criminal has been jailed for attempted rape after causing “deep and lasting” trauma to a vulnerable teen in a Bristol hotel room. Alan Douglas Clune, of no fixed address, was on trial for rape at Bristol Crown Court but pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of attempted rape on the second day of the trial, which was accepted by the prosecution.
Clune, 45, approached an 18-year-old man in Bristol city centre in the early hours of Wednesday, January 25, 2023. The vulnerable victim went back to a hotel room where Clune carried out his sickening attack. Investigating officer Detective Sergeant Laura Wrighton said the victim’s bravery resulted in Clune’s being locked up.
“Because Clune is HIV positive and did not use protection, the victim in this case had to also endure a long and anxious wait before being given the all-clear,” she added. Clune received an extended sentence of 12 years, consisting of a nine-year prison sentence and three years on licence.
DS Wrighton, who works in Avon and Somerset Police’s Operation Bluestone dedicated rape and serious sexual assault investigation team, continued: “The victim has been extremely courageous in reporting the offence and supporting the prosecution’s case. I believe his strength in attending the trial to give evidence resulted in the change of plea.
“We’re forever grateful for his bravery which has seen a very dangerous offender given an extended sentence which will help protect the public from his destructive criminal behaviour.
“It’s important to use this successful prosecution to urge victims of sexual offences to come forward. We can’t promise every case will lead to a conviction but we will do all we can to pursue the perpetrators and bring them to justice.
“You will be listened to and believed and we can help ensure you get any specialist advice and support you need.”