Man jailed for five years after Luggershall rape

Tuesday, 25 February 2025 06:05

A man who raped a woman in Luggershall has been sentenced after being found guilty by trial in December 2024.

Stephen Appleby, 61, of Diana Way, Corfe Mullen, was sentenced for rape at Bournemouth Crown Court yesterday (24th February) and jailed for five years.

Appleby's victim reported the offence to Wiltshire Police after being raped on September 5, 2021, and recorded the incident on a mobile device.

In a statement read to the court his victim said: "I feel great relief in knowing that I was believed and that I am going to gain some freedom in knowing that Stephen will be sent to prison. However, I know this freedom will only last as long as his sentence and how long of this he will serve.

"This is a life time sentence for me and one I will carry forever."

DS Roxanne Whitton said: "I would like to thank the victim who took huge courage to report this incident to the police. The judicial process has been long for her and she has had support from police officers, Horizon and Independent Sexual Violence Advisor (ISVA) throughout.

"She has taken the last few years a day at a time and found the strength to continue through the investigation and the court process.

"I hope this sentence will be will be a solace for her and that she can continue her journey in moving on and learning to enjoy her life again.

"I also hope that the sentence sends a message to people who have been a victim that you are not alone, report to the police and we will listen and we can signpost you to other support."

If you have been the victim of sexual assault or know someone that has, you are not alone. There is support available, and you should report it immediately, say the police.

Find your local sexual assault referral centre

You can find their details on Wiltshire Police's website: Support for victims of rape and sexual assault | Wiltshire Police

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