Extended sentence of 13 years for convicted rapist

A man convicted of three rapes and multiple sexual assaults has been given an extended sentence totalling 13 years.

On March 9, 2022, Northamptonshire Police was called by a woman who reported that Luke Yates, aged 23, had raped and sexually assaulted her after coming round to fix her boiler.

During the subsequent investigation, on July 19, 2022, the Force received a second report about Yates from a 16-year-old girl.

She told officers that he had raped her during their first meeting, following contact on messaging app Snapchat.

Yates went on to be charged with two counts of rape, two counts of assault by penetration, and one count of sexual assault against the first victim, and one count of rape and one count of assault by penetration against the second.

Following a trial at Northampton Crown Court, Yates was found guilty on January 30, and returned to the same court on April 29 for sentencing.

There, Yates, formerly of Wallis Street, Sleaford, Lincolnshire, was handed an extended sentence totalling 13 years, made up of 10 years’ imprisonment and a further three on licence.

Extended sentences are used for criminals convicted of specific offences who are deemed to be dangerous.

Speaking afterwards, Detective Constable Hayley Reed, who investigated the initial report against Yates, said: “I am thrilled for the two survivors that Luke Yates has not only been found guilty by a jury for what he put them through, but has been given an extended sentence which recognises the severity of his offending against them.

“Their courage in reporting his abhorrent and entitled actions was significant, and they have held themselves with such dignity and strength throughout the investigation, supporting the court process at every step. I am so proud of them both.”

Detective Constable Adam Kelly, who investigated the second report, added: “Both survivors have shown incredible bravery in giving evidence in the initial phases of our investigations and in court.

“The whole process has been very emotionally impactful. In showing such immense strength and seeing the case through trial they have ensured a dangerous sexual predator is now recognised as such and rightfully deprived of his liberty for a significant time.

“I hope this outcome provides them with a sense of justice and helps them move forward with a sense of pride in their bravery and determination.”

*This report and custody image have been released with the support of the survivors in this case, who have a legal right to lifelong anonymity.*

If you have been a victim of rape or sexual abuse, whether recent or non-recent, please come forward by calling 101 or via the online reporting tool at www.northants.police.uk/RO.

Find advice and support, including steps you can take if you’re not yet ready to make a report to police, here: https://www.northants.police.uk/ro/report/rsa/alpha-v1/advice/rape-sexual-assault-and-other-sexual-offences/

You can also visit www.voicenorthants.org or call Voice on 0300 303 1965 for free, confidential support.