A CONVICTED killer is facing a life sentence after a jury found him guilty of raping a woman.

Michael Stone, 48, of Pontalun Close, Barry, was convicted of the sex attack following a trial at Cardiff Crown Court.

The defendant was jailed for four years and eight months in 2007 after he admitted the manslaughter of a love rival.

His victim was stabbed in the neck with a knife following a confrontation at a house in Barry.

During Stone’s trial for rape, prosecutor Ruth Smith told the court Stone had carried out a terrifying sex attack on the complainant in 2019.

She said he sexually assaulted her after breaking her jeans.

Stone, represented by David Pinnell, had denied the charge.

He refused to appear in court from prison after the case was opened on Monday and did not give evidence in his defence.

Judge Neil Bidder QC told the jury after they returned their guilty verdict: “This is a dangerous offender – there is no doubt about that.

“He is already on life licence. That doesn’t prevent me imposing life imprisonment but there are strict rules for that.

“Thank you very much for dealing with such a very difficult case. You have paid a great deal of attention.”

Stone was remanded in custody and is due to be sentenced on February 4.