LEWIS STEWART SENTENCED TO LIFE IN PRISON FOR RAPE IN TORQUAY AND TORBAY

In a significant case that has shocked the community, Lewis Stewart, a 28-year-old man from Torbay, was handed a life sentence after being convicted of heinous crimes committed earlier this year in Torquay. The sentencing took place at Exeter Crown Court on Thursday, 14 September, where Judge Climie announced that Stewart would be required to serve a minimum of 18 years behind bars before being eligible for parole.

Stewart, who was identified as having no fixed abode in Torbay, faced multiple serious charges, including three counts of rape. During the trial, he pleaded guilty to possession of drugs and breaching a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, adding to the gravity of his offenses. The court proceedings revealed disturbing details about Stewart’s actions on the night of 21 January in Torquay Town Centre.

According to evidence presented during the trial, Stewart had been out drinking in the town centre when he targeted two women who appeared to be vulnerable. Surveillance footage captured Stewart following and watching the women closely, indicating premeditation and malicious intent. The court heard that Stewart then got into a taxi with the women and accompanied them to an address, where he committed the assaults. The following day, Stewart reportedly boasted about his actions to the victims, further demonstrating his lack of remorse.

Law enforcement officers, upon arresting Stewart, seized his phone and discovered a disturbing photograph of one of the victims in a vulnerable state. The phone also contained evidence of drug possession and dealing, which contributed to the charges against him. The case was tried over nine days, culminating in a jury’s unanimous verdict of guilty on all three counts of rape.

At the sentencing hearing, the court emphasized the severity of Stewart’s crimes and the impact on the victims. Judge Climie sentenced him to life imprisonment, with a minimum term of 18 years before he could be considered for parole. The case has drawn widespread attention in the local community, highlighting the ongoing issues of vulnerability and safety in Torbay and Torquay.