Wigan rapist jailed for 12 years

A man has been jailed for 12 years at Manchester Crown Court, after a police investigation into a rape last June in Wigan.

Shane Liptrot, 26, from Ashton‑in‑Makerfield, was convicted in December 2025 of knowingly trespassing on premises with intent to commit a sexual offence, rape, assault by penetration, and possession of a bladed article in a public space.

He was sentenced on Friday (23 January 2026)

Liptrot had repeatedly banged on the survivor’s door last June, before producing a knife, making inappropriate comments and forcing his way inside despite her attempts to stop him.

The survivor was a stranger to Liptrot, who- after gaining entry to her home by force - subjected her to rape.

After this horrifying ordeal, he refused to leave until she gave him her phone number. Out of fear, she first provided a false number, but when he discovered this, she felt forced to give her real one. He then called her while still inside the property to make sure it was correct.

A call was made to the police, and within a few hours Liptrot was arrested and has been remanded ever since, preventing him from committing any further offences.

The survivor told the court the impact this incident has had on her:

“Before Shane Liptrot committed this horrific crime against me, I had worked hard to rebuild my life after leaving a domestically violent relationship. I had focused on stabilising my mental health so I could care for my children, and I was less than a month away from my final hearing.

“When I informed my social worker about the rape, my assessment was immediately affected negatively, and the judge stated that what Shane did could cause future mental decline. Because I had chosen to surrender my tenancy, I no longer had a home where my children could return.

“I was forced to leave my home after the rape. I lost everything - my home, my possessions, and the life I had worked so hard to rebuild. Losing my home and possessions, on top of losing my children, broke me entirely. I became paranoid and anxious. I live in constant fear. I have not been able to sleep in a house or building alone since the attack.

“Over time, these feelings have not eased. Living like this has taken away my independence, my confidence, and my sense of normality. This crime took my children, my home, my safety, and my sense of self.”

Detective Constable Harris, who investigated this case, said:

"I want to commend the survivor for the remarkable courage she has shown in coming forward and supporting this investigation. Reporting an offence of this nature is incredibly difficult, and it is through her bravery that a very dangerous man is now behind bars.

“This was a terrifying stranger attack inside her own home, and the trauma she has endured is unimaginable. The home should be a safe haven. Yet despite this, she has shown strength and determination throughout every stage of the investigation and court process.

"We want to be absolutely clear: we take all reports of rape and sexual offences extremely seriously, and we will relentlessly pursue perpetrators.

"I hope this outcome provides the survivor with some measure of justice as she continues to rebuild her life. Her courage has protected other women from harm, and we will continue to stand with her — and every survivor — in the fight to bring offenders like Liptrot to justice."

If you or someone you know has been raped or sexually assaulted, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police, or a support agency so you can get the help and support available.

Saint Mary's Sexual Assault Referral Centre, Manchester provides a comprehensive and co-ordinated response to men, women and children who live or have been sexually assaulted within Greater Manchester. They offer forensic medical examinations, practical and emotional support as well as a counselling service for all ages. Services are available on a 24-hour basis and can be accessed by calling 0161 276 6515.

Greater Manchester Rape Crisis is a confidential information, support and counselling service run by women for women over 18 who have been raped or sexually abused at any time in their lives. Call on 0161 273 4500 or email help@manchesterrapecrisis.co.uk

Survivors Manchester provides specialist trauma informed support to male victims in Greater Manchester who have experienced sexual abuse, rape or sexual exploitation. Call 0161 236 2182.