A BRUTAL rapist is behind bars awaiting a substantial prison sentence for viciously attacking a woman in her home.

Daniel Kilgallon, 31, was convicted by a jury at Bradford Crown Court of rape and sexual assault.

He pleaded guilty to causing the woman actual bodily harm part way through his trial.

The jury had been told that Kilgallon had attacked his victim for sexual gratification and as a means of punishment.

After he was found guilty he was told by Judge Jonathan Rose that he could receive an extended jail term if he is assessed to be a danger to the public.

Prosecutor Stephen Wood told the court that Kilgallon, of Old Lane, Drighlington, forced his way into the woman’s home in June last year, grabbed her and put her to the floor.

He covered her mouth, struck her in the face, causing bruising, and sexually abused her.

Kilgallon then raped the woman on her bed while covering her mouth.

He fled the scene after the attack, leaving his distressed victim to immediately call the police.

After his arrest, Kilgallon answered ‘no comment’ to all police questions.

During his trial he told the jury that the woman had made up the crimes that he faced.

After the jury’s unanimous guilty verdicts, Judge Jonathan Rose remanded Kilgallon in custody for the preparation of a report from the probation service.

He instructed probation officers that the report must address the question of whether Kilgallon poses a danger to members of the public.

Judge Rose also a restraining order to protect Kilgallon's victim from any contact from him.

He told Kilgallon: “This was a vicious and brutal attack, for sexual gratification but also to punish.

“I have real concerns about the danger you pose to the public.”

The judge ordered Kilgallon to sign on the sex offender’s register.

Addressing Kilgallon in the dock, Judge Rose told him: “You must prepare yourself for what will be a substantial sentence of imprisonment.

“You are remanded in custody until July 21.”