Man who raped and threatened new partner is jailed

A man identified as Joseph Peplow has been sentenced to 10 years and six months in prison for a series of heinous crimes against a woman he met online. Hertfordshire Police reported that during a month-long relationship, Peplow committed multiple offenses including rape, controlling and coercive behavior, assault by beating, and making threats to kill. The court proceedings revealed that Peplow did not permit his partner to have male friends, pressured her to change revealing clothing, and on multiple occasions, forcibly raped her despite her protests and requests to stop. In one disturbing incident, he raped her while she was semi-conscious and unable to give consent. Peplow also threatened her with severe violence, including threats to rape, beat, kill, and even burn her house down with her inside. Moreover, he demanded daily contact, sometimes displaying kindness but then turning to intimidation, and even hinted at self-harm to manipulate her feelings. Det Con Abi Wilkins described his actions as 'abhorrent' and highlighted the lasting impact on the victim, praising her bravery in reporting the crimes and supporting the trial. She stated, 'Peplow’s abhorrent actions have had a long-lasting impact on the victim, who continues to try and rebuild her life following this harrowing experience.' The victim's resilience was commended, and Peplow received a substantial prison sentence at Luton Crown Court, acknowledging him as a dangerous threat to society.