Ex-Soldier’s Suicide Bid Delays Rape Sentence
Gary Conibear’s sentencing for rape was dramatically postponed after he tried to take his own life on Salisbury Plain, sparking a major rescue operation.
Manhunt Launched After Conibear Vanishes
The 33-year-old ex-soldier vanished just before his hearing at Winchester Crown Court on 5 September. Police discovered a chilling suicide note, triggering an intense search west of Tidworth. The National Police Air Service helicopter joined the urgent hunt.
Critically Injured on Sidbury Hill: Heroic Rescue
Conibear was found unconscious near Sidbury Hill. Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance, multiple ambulances, police, and a Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) responded swiftly. He was stabilised on site before being airlifted to hospital in critical condition.
Convicted Rapist Finally Behind Bars
After his recovery, Conibear of Churchill Close was jailed for seven years and six months at Winchester Crown Court on 8 October. He was also slapped with a lifelong restraining order.
“It felt like a constant loop of fear, shame, and despair,” the victim said, describing her ordeal. The court heard they met on a night out, played pool and drank together. He later offered to walk her home, and both fell asleep fully clothed on her bed. She woke to find him raping her.
