The Sleaford Rapist, Luke Yates, was found guilty of three rapes and numerous sexual assaults and has received an extended sentence of 13 years.
On March 9, 2022, Northamptonshire Police received a report from a woman alleging that Luke Yates, 23, had raped and sexually abused her during his visit to repair her boiler.
On July 19, 2022, the Force received a second report on Yates from a 16-year-old female.
She informed the cops that he had sexually assaulted her during their initial encounter, subsequent to communication via the messaging application Snapchat.
Yates was charged with two charges of rape, two counts of assault by penetration, and one count of sexual assault pertaining to the first victim, as well as one count of rape and one count of assault by penetration concerning the second victim.
After a trial at Northampton Crown Court, Yates was convicted on January 30 and returned to the same court for sentencing on April 29.
Yates, previously residing on Wallis Street, Sleaford, Lincolnshire, received an extended term of 13 years, comprising 10 years of incarceration and an additional three years on licence. [EDITORS NOTE – DON’T BE TOO IMPRESSED THE JUDGE CAN GIVE UP TO 8 YEARS ON LICENCE FOR SEXUAL OFFENCES]
Extended sentences are imposed on criminals guilty of particular offences who are considered dangerous.
Speaking afterwards, Detective Constable Hayley Reed, who investigated the initial report against Yates, said: “I am thrilled for the two survivors that Luke Yates has not only been found guilty by a jury for what he put them through, but has been given an extended sentence which recognises the severity of his offending against them.
“Their courage in reporting his abhorrent and entitled actions was significant, and they have held themselves with such dignity and strength throughout the investigation, supporting the court process at every step. I am so proud of them both.”
Detective Constable Adam Kelly, who investigated the second report, added: “Both survivors have shown incredible bravery in giving evidence in the initial phases of our investigations and in court.
“The whole process has been very emotionally impactful. In showing such immense strength and seeing the case through trial they have ensured a dangerous sexual predator is now recognised as such and rightfully deprived of his liberty for a significant time.
“I hope this outcome provides them with a sense of justice and helps them move forward with a sense of pride in their bravery and determination.”
This report and custody image have been released with the support of the survivors in this case, who have a legal right to lifelong anonymity.
If you have been a victim of rape or sexual abuse, whether recent or non-recent, please come forward by calling 101 or via the online reporting tool at www.northants.police.uk/RO.
Find advice and support, including steps you can take if you’re not yet ready to make a report to police, here: https://www.northants.police.uk/ro/report/rsa/alpha-v1/advice/rape-sexual-assault-and-other-sexual-offences/
You can also visit www.voicenorthants.org or call Voice on 0300 303 1965 for free, confidential support.
If you or anyone you know have been affected by the people highlighted in this article, then please report those individuals to the Police on 101 (999 if an emergency) or visit their online resources for further details of the options for reporting a crime. You can also make a report at Crimestoppers should you wish to be completely anonymous. There is help available on our support links page.