LUKE WEST SENTENCED IN BOURNEMOUTH FOR RAPE AND ASSAULT IN LOWER GARDENS

In June 2020, a man named Luke Alan West, aged 29 and residing on Durley Chine Road in Bournemouth, was handed a severe prison sentence of 16 years after being found guilty of heinous crimes committed in the Bournemouth area. The conviction followed an extensive 11-day trial at Winchester Crown Court, where West faced charges of rape and inflicting grievous bodily harm with intent.

The incident in question took place early in the morning on Wednesday, November 13, 2019, in the Lower Gardens of Bournemouth town centre. The victim, a woman in her 40s, was walking through the park on her way to work around 5:40 am when she was suddenly approached from behind by West. Without warning, he grabbed her around the neck, initiating a brutal physical assault that culminated in a sexual assault. The attack left the woman with serious facial injuries, and she was discovered by members of the public approximately 30 minutes later, at around 6:10 am.

She was immediately taken to hospital, where medical staff treated her for significant facial trauma, including bruising across her face, neck, chest, and arms, as well as a fractured eye socket. During her hospital stay, she reported that she had been raped by an unknown man in the gardens, which prompted a comprehensive investigation by Dorset Police.

Authorities launched a major inquiry, which involved scrutinizing extensive CCTV footage from the area surrounding the scene. Through diligent analysis, investigators identified a suspect captured on camera near the location shortly before the attack and then seen fleeing the scene shortly afterward. This evidence was crucial in linking the suspect to the crime.

On the evening of Thursday, November 14, 2019, at approximately 10:10 pm, police officers stopped a man matching the description of the suspect on Commercial Road. The individual initially provided a false name but was later identified as Luke West. Further investigation, including DNA analysis, confirmed West’s involvement in the assault and rape. He was formally charged with the crimes on Saturday, November 16, 2019.

West’s conviction and subsequent sentencing underscore the severity of the attack and the determination of Dorset Police to bring justice for the victim. The case highlights the importance of CCTV evidence and forensic analysis in solving serious crimes in Bournemouth.