Rapist sexual predator is jailed for 30 years

A DANGEROUS sexual predator who specifically targeted vulnerable women as his victims has been jailed for 30 years.

- By SHANNON BROWN

Peter Wilkinson, of Drake Gardens in Tavistock, preyed upon five woman in the Tavistock area between 2012 and 2024, subjecting his victims to lasting trauma as a result of his abuse.

Wilkinson, 53, was found guilty of 21 separate offences following a five-week trial at Plymouth Crown Court in April. He must serve two thirds of the 30-year custodial sentence element of the sentence before he can be considered for parole, and must also sign the Sex Offenders' Register for life.

Wilkinson was arrested in October 2023 after it was reported that he had sexually abused a woman numerous times. He was arrested and investigating officers identified four other victims Wilkinson had targeted and abused.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Craig Ferguson prepared a voluminous and intricate case with the assistance of Beth Wycherley, a Senior Crown Prosecution Service lawyer from the Rape and Serious Sexual Offences Team. Wilkinson was charged with multiple rapes, sexual offences, physical assaults and strangulation, all of which he denied. He remained on remand in custody until the start of his trial at Plymouth Crown Court on Monday, March 24.

Through the trial, the jury heard details from Wilkinson's five victims who spoke of the lasting trauma he had caused them. The court heard from multiple witnesses and from Wilkinson himself, who denied the offences and claimed the victims had all lied about him.