In 2025, the Offender Database recorded that James Goulding, then 35, of Talke, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire, was sentenced to a significant term of imprisonment for rape and coercive control. On Thursday, 11 December 2025, Goulding appeared at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court, where he was handed a 13-year custodial sentence.
The investigation established that between December 2024 and March 2025, Goulding inflicted a campaign of abuse on a woman in Staffordshire. After the survivor bravely came forward, Staffordshire Police arrested Goulding, who denied all offences. However, investigators from the Rape and Serious Sexual Offences (RASSO) unit built a comprehensive evidence base, including testimony and digital records, that secured his conviction despite his continued claims of innocence.
Judicial Findings and Investigative Detail
The court reported that Goulding was found guilty by a jury of one count of rape and one count of engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour. Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court heard that the defendant’s actions were “heinous” and represented a calculated effort to dominate the victim. Detective Constable Helena Cresswell commended the strength of the survivor, noting that the 13-year sentence reflected the severe psychological and physical impact of Goulding’s crimes in Talke, Newcastle-under-Lyme.
The judge noted that Goulding’s persistent denial of the offences demonstrated a lack of remorse and a failure to take responsibility for his actions. For his crimes in Staffordshire, the court determined that he posed a significant long-term risk to women. The prosecution reported that the successful trial outcome was a testament to the force’s commitment to tackling violence against women and girls (VAWG) in the Newcastle-under-Lyme area.
Sentence and Statutory Requirements
For his crimes in England, James Goulding was handed:
- Custodial Sentence: 13 years in prison.
- Sex Offenders Register: Notification requirements are in effect for life.
- SHPO: A 20-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO).
- Restraining Order: A permanent order prohibiting any contact with the survivor.
- Judicial Oversight: Sentenced at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court following a jury trial.
Monitoring and Public Protection
Goulding is managed under Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA) by Staffordshire Police and the prison estate. Due to the combination of rape and coercive control in Talke, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire, his management is subject to the highest level of oversight by the Public Protection Unit.
As a member of the Sex Offenders Register, Goulding must comply with notification requirements regarding any future residence in Talke, Newcastle-under-Lyme, for the rest of his life. Authorities state that his 20-year SHPO and the restraining order are critical safeguards to protect the survivor and prevent him from forming further abusive relationships. Any breach of his registration conditions or future licence terms will result in immediate arrest and a return to Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court.
If you or anyone you know has been affected by the individuals highlighted on this website, please report them to the Police on 101 (999 in an emergency) or visit their online resources for further details on reporting a crime. You can also report to Crimestoppers if you wish to remain completely anonymous. There is help available on our support links page.