Plymouth man jailed for rapes and other sexual offences
A 53-year-old man has been sentenced to 25 years in prison after being convicted of numerous rapes and other sexual offences in Plymouth.
Stephen Gibbeson, formerly of Verna Road, Plymouth, was found guilty by a jury at Plymouth Crown Court in February of nine sexual offences, seven of which were rapes.
Gibbeson appeared at Plymouth Crown Court again on Friday 17 May when he was sentenced by Judge Peter Johnson.
Over a prolonged period of time, Gibbeson subjected the victim in the case to repeated attacks, many of which were carried out outside at locations in Plymouth. Gibbeson became aggressive whenever the victim attempted to resist.
The abuse only came to an end when the victim bravely confided in a friend, and then in turn a social worker leading to an extensive police investigation.
DC Philip Tucker, from the Public Protection Unit Local Investigation Team, said: “I am extremely pleased with the sentence, and that justice has been done.
“I would first like to thank our barrister Emily Pitts and those from CPS that supported us during the trial.
“This has been a long investigation and I would like to mention the help and support of all my colleagues in particular those within the Public Protection Unit especially Jackie and Emma.
“This has been a joint achievement with multiple agencies and I thank them all for their hard work and diligence.
“I would like to thank the victim and witnesses for staying involved throughout this investigation. Especially those that had the confidence and conviction to give evidence throughout the trial.
“My thoughts now go out to a brave young woman who must now try and find a way to move on with her life.”
Support available
If you or someone you know has been a victim of rape or sexual assault, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police by calling 101, or 999 in an emergency. You can also report information and crimes on our website.
Alternatively, you can report information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
There are lots of organisations and support agencies available across Devon and Cornwall that can help provide support.
For more information on rape and serious sexual assault and the support services available, please visit our support pages by clicking here.
Advice and support is also offered by our partner agencies:
• National Rape Crisis Helpline 0808 802 9999
• Victim Care Unit (Devon and Cornwall) 01392 475900
• Devon and Cornwall Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARC) 0300 3034626
Victim care
If you have been affected by crime, please visit https://orlo.uk/cOqV8 to access support services and information on your rights and how to navigate the criminal justice system. You can also call Victim Support on 08 08 16 89 111 or Devon and Cornwall Police’s Victim Care Unit on 01392 475900.
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