A RAPIST has been jailed for 20 years after using terrifying violence to carry out attacks in locations including Truro.

Peter Gilbert, 54, of Manor Street in Plymouth, appeared at Truro Crown Court for sentence yesterday [Wednesday February 18] after being found guilty at trial of three counts of rape.

Gilbert was also convicted by a jury of one non-sexual offence, as well as pleading guilty to breach of a court order and disclosing an intimate video with intent to cause distress.

He must sign the Sex Offenders’ Register for life and a restraining order was put in place to protect the victim.

Further offences took place in Newquay and Plymouth.

The court heard how in June 2022, Gilbert attended Charles Cross Police Station in relation to an unrelated matter. While in the station, he became flustered and started pacing the room before telling officers he had carried out a sexual offence.

The victim was spoken to while Gilbert was in custody and stated that he had raped her on several occasions, including after a night out in Newquay. She described freezing during the attacks and Gilbert making a variety of threats against her.

A further attack took place at the victim’s home, in which Gilbert said he was twice the size of the victim and she had no choice but to do what he wanted.

Gilbert made additional threats of violence, including with weapons and showed footage of an oral rape to others. He filmed the attack carefully to make sure she was visible and not him.

Gilbert made no comment in interview.

During the sentencing hearing, Judge Simon Carr commented how Gilbert preyed upon his victim and such was the violence he demonstrated towards her, he even stubbed out cigarettes on her arms causing scarring. Judge Carr added that Gilbert filmed the rapes and used the footage as a weapon.

Detective Sergeant Megan Cornish said: “Peter Gilbert is an extremely dangerous rapist and sexual predator who used violence and threats in order to rape his victim.

“Gilbert showed no regard for her wellbeing in his evil pursuit for sexual gratification.

“I would like to praise the immense courage of the victim, who has remained engaged from when she was first spoken to, right through to the court process. It is her bravery that has enabled Gilbert to be brought to justice for his crimes.

“While I do not underestimate the psychological damage caused by Gilbert’s actions, I hope she is now able to feel some form of closure.

“We encourage anybody who has been the victim of rape or sexual abuse to report it to us via 101 or our website, or by 999 if in immediate danger. All reports made will be investigated and you will be believed.”

Information may also be reported anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Advice and support are offered by partner agencies including the National Rape Crisis Helpline on 0808 802 9999, and the Devon and Cornwall Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARC) on 0300 303 4626.