A PONTELAND rapist has died in prison.

Dean Graham was jailed last year for six years and 10 months after he was found guilty of rape and sexual assault following a trial at Newcastle Crown Court.

A spokeswoman for HMP Northumberland has now confirmed Graham died on April 11.

"We can confirm that a prisoner sadly died at HMP Northumberland on April 11 2023," she said.

"The next of kin have been informed and our thoughts are with the family.

"As with all deaths in custody, there will be an investigation by the independent Prisons and Probation Ombudsman and therefore we are unable to comment further at this stage."

Newcastle Crown Court heard Graham's victim fell asleep on a sofa after a night out.

She was woken up when Graham, who had approached her from behind, sexually assaulted her and then raped her.

The victim punched Graham in the face, making him stop, when she woke up and realised what was happening to her, the court was told.

Graham, of Kirkley Drive, had denied rape and sexual assault but was convicted by a jury in May last year.

Mr Recorder Tony Hawks sentenced the then 42-year-old to six years and 10 months in jail.