Tinder Date Turns Nightmare in Chippenham
A Chippenham man launched a savage attack less than 24 hours after meeting a woman on Tinder. Jake Clark, 29, brutally battered the woman, locked her inside his flat, and stole cash from her bank card.
The victim, in her 30s, had barely met Clark when he headbutted and punched her repeatedly, injuring her eye socket. He smashed her phone and refused to let her leave.
Jailed for Over Three Years, Long Restraining Order Imposed
Clark’s violent past caught up with him at Swindon Crown Court on 5 December. He was found guilty of actual bodily harm and false imprisonment. The judge sentenced him to three years and two months behind bars. He also received a five-year, nine-month restraining order banning any contact with the victim.
Police were alerted at 9am on 7 March after passers-by spotted the injured woman begging for help outside Clark’s flat on Hungerdown Lane, Portway. Forensic teams quickly sealed off the scene.
Repeat Offender with Violent History
Clark isn’t new to trouble. In 2021, Wiltshire Police recorded a savage assault where he bit and strangled a girlfriend. He was also serving a suspended sentence for theft, criminal damage, and assault from 2018.
“Clark is a violent man – he knew his victim had been searching for companionship but he instead took advantage of this and subjected her to a terrifying ordeal… She has been left feeling extremely anxious and nervous,” said DC Daniel Jackson of Central CID.
“Clark barricaded his victim inside his flat to stop her getting help. It was only thanks to a passer-by that police were called in time to prevent more harm.”
“We urge everyone using dating apps to stay safe and tell someone where they are going.”
A Stark Warning to Dating App Users
This brutal case highlights the dark side of dating apps. The court’s tough sentence sends a clear signal: violent abuse, especially targeting vulnerable people seeking love, will be met with harsh justice.
