Man jailed for attempted rape at WA home

A West Australian man who tried to rape a woman while she slept at his home after drinking alcohol has been sentenced to three years in jail.

Lenard Lewis, 59, was convicted after a trial of attacking the woman in Halls Creek, in WA's far north, in November 2016.

Lewis tried to get on top of the woman after she fell asleep but was pushed away, the WA District Court heard on Thursday.

Judge Michael Bowden said the crime was opportunistic.

"You took advantage of the victim who was intoxicated and asleep."

Judge Bowden said general deterrence was a significant sentencing factor.

The father-of-two must spend at least 18 months behind bars before he can be eligible for parole.

Lewis was supposed to face a sentencing hearing in August but failed to show up to court.

Judge Bowden told Lewis it was possible he could still be charged and sentenced later for breaching bail.