“This is a life time sentence for me and one I will carry forever” the words from a victim of rape, who was attacked by her former partner.
Stephen Appleby, 61, of Diana Way, Corfe Mullen, was sentenced for rape at Bournemouth Crown Court today (24/02) after being found guilty by trial in December, 2024.
On September 5, 2021, Appleby subjected his victim, a former partner, to rape in her own home. She reported the incident after recording the incident and listening back.
In a statement read to the court his victim said: “I feel great relief in knowing that I was believed and that I am going to gain some freedom in knowing that Stephen will be sent to prison. However, I know this freedom will only last as long as his sentence and how long of this he will serve.
“This is a life time sentence for me and one I will carry forever.”
DS Roxanne Whitton said: “I would like to thank the victim who took huge courage to report this incident to the police. The judicial process has been long for her and she has had support from police officers, Horizon and Independent Sexual Violence Advisor (ISVA) throughout.
“This offence took place inside the victim’s home, which should have been her safe place. She has taken the last few years a day at a time and found the strength to continue through the investigation and the court process.
“I hope this sentence will be will be a solace for her and that she can continue her journey in moving on and learning to enjoy her life again.
“I also hope that the sentence sends a message to people who have been a victim that you are not alone, report to the police and we will listen and we can signpost you to other support.”
If you have been the victim of sexual assault, or know someone that has, you are not alone. Please get in touch with us or one of our partner agencies.
Independent sexual violence advisors (ISVAs) work with adults and children who have experienced sexual violence and their families to get them access to the services they need.
You can talk to an ISVA without talking to the police.
You can access ISVAs through sexual assault referral centres (SARCs). SARCs have specially trained doctors, nurses and support workers on hand 24 hours a day, offering medical, practical and emotional support to anyone who has been raped, sexually assaulted or abused.
Find your local sexual assault referral centre
You can find their details on our website: Support for victims of rape and sexual assault | Wiltshire Police
