Convicted rapist back behind bars after assault

A CONVICTED rapist is back behind bars after a court heard how he assaulted a former partner.

In 2002 Carl Lovell was jailed for life for rape and released back into the community in 2012.

But Bolton Crown Court heard how, on August 11 last year he turned up at a former girlfriend's flat in Leigh and became aggressive.

Lovell, aged 52, admitted causing Bernadette Rigby actual bodily harm but disputed her version of events.

His account was rejected following a trial of issue and Recorder Tom Gilbart jailed him for nine months.

The court had heard how when Lovell, of no fixed address, turned up at the flat he quickly became angry and aggressive.

"At one point you took hold of a knife and used it to make marks in a piece of wood whilst making threatening comments," Recorder Gilbart told him.

The court heard that Miss Rigby was frightened and went to her bedroom.

Then, when she walked into her living room whilst Lovell was on the phone, he again became angry and attacked her.

She was hit several times and knocked to the floor.

The court was told that she was left with a bruised chest and other injuries, including a cut forehead.

"It should be to your great shame that you made anybody frightened to be in their own home," said Recorder Gibart.

Lovell has 34 previous convictions for 103 offences including several for violence as well as rape.

In August last year he was recalled to prison following the assault and concerns that he had returned to using drugs.

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