'Kick in the teeth' for Alexander Westwood's victims as rapist will spend Christmas a free man

The actor will be sentenced for his crimes on February 25 and can expect to spend up to 15 years in prison.

However, Westwood was granted bail until his sentencing in February which means he is a free man until finding out his fate next year.

One of his victims, who cannot be named, told the Express & Star: "It was bad enough knowing he was living his life as if nothing had happened during the trial but now he is a convicted rapist he should be in jail.

"He will be able to enjoy Christmas but I will not feel safe until I know he is in prison and cannot cause harm.

"He must be facing over ten years in prison and he always has to feel he is in control and always talked about living abroad so why have they given him the chance to runaway."

She added: "He must be angry he has been found guilty and will be blaming his victims, so I will be counting down the days until he is sentenced."

Westwood, of Holybush Road, Albrighton, was found guilty of 26 sex crimes relating to a girl he abused for seven years, a boy, and three pupils he attacked whilst giving acting lessons. 

His crimes including sexual assault by penetration, sexual assault by touching his victims and rape.

A family member of another of his victims said: "This has been a terrible ordeal which has been going on for years. By pleading not guilty he forced his victims to relive their trauma in court.

"The case lasted over month as well. With all the meetings with police and lawyers this case has always been in the forefront of our lives.

"It was such a relief hearing he was guilty of every charge. But to know he walked out of court a free man was a real kick in the teeth.

"He could abuse other women between now and February and knowing he will be at home for Christmas and not in jail where he belongs just seems wrong."

Westwood will be sentenced at Wolverhampton Crown Court on Tuesday, February 25.