A 53-year-old man, Stephen Gibbeson Plymouth Rapist, has received a 25-year prison sentence following his conviction for many rapes and other sexual offences in Plymouth.
Stephen Gibbeson, previously residing on Verna Road, Plymouth, was convicted by a jury at Plymouth Crown Court in February of nine sexual crimes, seven of which were classified as rapes.
Stephen Gibbeson reappeared before Plymouth Crown Court on Friday, 17 May, where Judge Peter Johnson sentenced him.
Stephen Gibbeson repeatedly assaulted the victim over an extended duration, with numerous incidents occurring outside in Plymouth. Stephen Gibbeson exhibited aggression anytime the victim sought to resist.
The abuse ceased only when the victim courageously disclosed the situation to a friend, who then informed a social worker, resulting in a comprehensive police inquiry.
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 who 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, particularly 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 who had the confidence and conviction to give evidence throughout the trial.
“My thoughts now go out to a brave young woman who must try to 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.
Our partner agencies also offer advice and support:
- 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.
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.