Stuart Thomson jailed for raping and threatening sex workers with a knife—Survivors urge others to speak out

A brutal sex attacker who prowled Manchester’s streets with a knife has been jailed for life, following a terrifying spree of violence against women. Stuart Thomson, described by police as “calculated and dangerous,” targeted sex workers late at night—raping them, threatening them with weapons, and leaving a trail of trauma behind him.

But it was the courage of one woman that finally ended his reign of terror.

The brave victim, assaulted at knifepoint, called police immediately after the attack—and didn’t stop there. She followed Thomson through the streets, relaying his movements until officers arrived to arrest him. Her quick thinking and fearless determination prevented another assault and helped detectives connect the dots across a disturbing pattern of offences.

Thomson, who showed no remorse throughout the investigation or trial, was convicted of three rapes, one attempted rape, and multiple weapons offences. He openly insulted his victims in court, arguing with jurors and claiming the women weren’t “very good at what they did.” His vile testimony shocked even veteran court staff.

The impact of his crimes runs deep. Survivors, speaking anonymously to protect their identities, described the long-lasting trauma. One woman said she still jumps at footsteps behind her. Another said she lived in fear that Thomson would return.

“I was terrified he would find me,” one woman told the Manchester Evening News.
“It’s not just the moment he hurt you—it’s the fear that follows you forever.”

Their message, however, is one of defiant strength: speak up.

“The police listened. They believed us. They got him locked away,” said another survivor. “And we need others to know—they will do the same for you.”

Thomson’s arrest was aided by distinctive CCTV footage that placed him near the scenes of several attacks. The Manchester Action on Street Health (MASH) charity, which supports sex workers, has praised the victims’ strength and the work of officers who refused to let the case go cold.

“These women were targeted because of their vulnerability,” a MASH spokesperson said. “But they refused to stay silent—and now he’s behind bars.”

Police also made a broader appeal to the public, urging anyone at risk or with information about sexual violence to come forward. Officers stressed that all reports will be taken seriously and handled with care.

Detective Inspector Louise Edwards, who led the investigation, said:

“Stuart Thomson thought he could attack vulnerable women and disappear into the night. Thanks to the strength of his victims and tireless police work, he will now spend the rest of his life behind bars.”

Still, the case has ignited fears about safety on the city’s darker streets. Community leaders and outreach groups warn that predators often exploit hidden corners of nightlife where marginalised women work with little protection.

“He’s gone,” said one survivor, “but who else is still out there?”

The sentencing marks a major victory for justice, but also a stark reminder: sex workers remain at risk, and predators will continue to test the shadows unless society stands with victims—loudly, publicly, and without judgment.