Former Premier League footballer Nathan Ashton has been sentenced to 16 years in prison for raping two women in separate attacks.
The 37-year-old, who played for Fulham and Charlton Athletic, was convicted of the crimes, which occurred eight years apart.
One of Ashton’s victims said in a powerful impact statement, “Because of what he chose to do to me, I have feared men ever since – and always will. The feelings I hold for him are disgust and hatred. I think he is a vile human being.” The second victim said she now suffers from panic attacks.
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The court heard that the first attack took place in 2015, and the victim waited five years to come forward due to fear of not being believed.
The second attack happened in February last year, and Ashton carried on with the attack despite the victim’s repeated pleas to stop.
Judge Mathew Turner said during sentencing, “You used your physical strength to do what you wanted, with no empathy or compassion for your victims. You are manipulative and focused on yourself and your own sexual satisfaction.”
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Ashton’s football career spanned several teams, including Charlton, Fulham, Crystal Palace, Wycombe Wanderers, AFC Wimbledon, and Tilbury.
He was previously jailed for 15 years for armed robberies but was released early and committed the second rape while on home leave.
