A RAPIST from Greenock who inflicted a life-threatening sex attack on a terrified woman within a flat in the town has been sentenced to seven years in prison.

Eric Schrickel caused his victim to lose consciousness twice by restricting her breathing in what police have described as a ‘prolonged and sustained’ assault.

The 42-year-old offender was found guilty at trial by a High Court jury in Livingston of raping the woman to her severe injury and to the danger of her life.

Detective Inspector Louise Harvie, of the Renfrewshire and Inverclyde Rape Investigation Unit, today welcomed the seven-year term handed down to Schrickel.

DI Harvie said: “I am in no doubt that Eric Schrickel is a dangerous man and our communities are safer now he has been jailed.” 

Schrickel carried out the attack between July 18 and 21 last year after first repeatedly attempting to kiss the 42-year-old woman within a property in Greenock’s Gael Street.

He then battered her on the head and body with a chopping board, or similar implement, before knocking to the floor.

Schrickel, who had been remanded in custody over the attack, restricted the woman’s breathing by pressing the board against her neck and caused her to lose consciousness.

He climbed on top of her, forced her arms above her head and restrained her on a bed as he removed her trousers and underwear.

As the attack continued Schrickel compressed the woman’s neck with his hand, again restricting her breathing and causing her to lose consciousness.

He then raped her, all to her severe injury and to the danger of her life.

DI Harvie said: “He subjected a 42-year-old woman to a prolonged and sustained serious sexual assault, leaving her injured and terrified. 

“Despite the devastating impact this attack has had on her, it is testament to her strength and courage in coming forward to police and throughout the investigation and trial that Schrickel is now behind bars.

“I sincerely hope the fact that he is off the streets will go some way towards helping her feel safe and allow her to rebuild her life.”

Schrickel, who had been represented by defence solicitor Aidan Gallagher and senior counsel, was sentenced at the High Court in Glasgow.

He was acquitted on charges of possession of amphetamine and also being concerned in the supply of the drug.