A man, Martin Sales Kirklees Rapist, who absconded across the nation in an attempt to evade prosecution has been sentenced to imprisonment for rape and other grave offences.
Martin Sales (41) of Liversedge was sentenced to 18 years at Leeds Crown Court on Friday, January 31, after being convicted of two counts of rape in a prior trial.
The 41-year-old was also incarcerated for a Section 18 assault and two theft crimes to which he had confessed guilt.
Martin Sales perpetrated the acts in Kirklees in April of the previous year and thereafter escaped to Wales from West Yorkshire.
A comprehensive effort was initiated in Wales and other locations in collaboration with partner forces to identify him, accompanied by several appeals.
By late May, evidence clearly indicated that he was in Hereford, which became the focal point of investigations as the net tightened around the 41-year-old.
Martin Sales was ultimately observed in Hereford by an off-duty West Mercia Police officer and apprehended on May 24.
Martin Sales was remanded in detention and promptly charged to appear before the courts.
He was also issued an indefinite restraining order at today’s hearing, prohibiting any further contact with his victim.
Detective Constable Eleanor Radley of the Kirklees District Adult Safeguarding Unit stated: “Martin Sales perpetrated egregious offences against his victim and subsequently absconded from West Yorkshire in the immediate aftermath of his crimes.”
“He was clearly fully aware of the gravity of what he had done, and we are pleased a jury found him guilty of the two rape offences he was put on trial for.
“I hope his victim can take some comfort from his conviction and I want to commend her for the bravery she has continued to display.”
Detective Sergeant Chris Middleton, added: “Martin Sales was extremely adept at hiding from authorities and covering his tracks as he moved from location to location.
“However, police forces are equally adept at working in close collaboration with each other, and this case should make it clear to suspects that just because they have fled their home county, it does not mean they will not answer for their crimes.
“Sexual offences in particular are treated extremely seriously by Kirklees Police, and we will do everything we can to locate offenders and seek justice for victims.”
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.