PLYMOUTH MAN SENTENCED TO 25 YEARS FOR CAMPAIGN OF RAPE

A Plymouth man has been sentenced to 25 years in prison after being convicted of multiple sexual offences including nine sexual offences and seven rapes against the same victim. Stephen Gibbeson, aged 53 and from Stonehouse, was found guilty by a jury at Plymouth Crown Court in February. During the sentencing, Judge Peter Johnson described Gibbeson as a 'manipulative, devious, cunning man'. The court heard that Gibbeson subjected his victim to a prolonged campaign of sexual abuse, many of which took place outdoors in Plymouth. The offender became aggressive whenever the victim resisted. The abuse only stopped after the victim confided in a friend, leading to a police investigation. Crown Prosecutor Emily Pitts highlighted that Gibbeson's rapes resulted in the victim becoming pregnant, which she was forced to abort. Witnesses contradicted Gibbeson's claims of health issues, showing he was capable of considerable physical activity and had lied about his health during police interviews. The court was told that Gibbeson exploited his mobility issues, but evidence demonstrated he could walk distances and had falsely claimed needing assistance. The judge emphasized that Gibbeson’s conduct caused severe psychological harm, leaving the victim feeling worthless and contemplating suicide. He read out the victim's impact statement expressing her trauma and difficulty in moving on. Gibbeson’s previous conviction for indecent assault in 1999 and a 2017 battery case were also considered. The judge sentenced Gibbeson to serve 16 years and 8 months before being eligible for parole, with a total sentence of 25 years. Gibbeson will also be placed on the Sex Offenders' Register for life and be subject to a restraining order preventing contact with his victim. Det Con Philip Tucker praised the police's efforts and the bravery of the victim and witnesses, emphasizing that justice has been served. The article also provides information on support services for victims of sexual assault.