DAVE BUCKLE FROM CASTLETON SENTENCED FOR RAPE AND VOYEURISM IN DERBYSHIRE

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Castleton and the wider Derbyshire area, David Buckle, a local resident, was convicted of heinous sexual offenses that involved recording himself raping a sleeping woman. The incident, which took place at an address in Derbyshire several years ago, only came to light after the victim reported her suspicions to the police.

During the four-day trial at Derby Crown Court, it was revealed that the victim, who was unaware of the assault at the time, only learned of Buckle’s actions when law enforcement officials informed her later. The woman, who is in her mid-thirties, was deeply affected by the ordeal. In her victim impact statement, she described feeling “worthless and empty,” emphasizing the profound and lasting trauma she has endured.

Buckle, aged 35 and residing on Weaving Avenue in Castleton, denied that what he recorded constituted rape. He argued that the act was not non-consensual, which led to a harrowing process for the victim, who was compelled to relive her experience during her testimony. The jury, after reviewing the evidence, swiftly returned a guilty verdict, recognizing the clear lack of consent, especially given that the victim was unconscious during the assault.

Judge Shaun Smith KC sentenced Buckle to eight and a half years in prison. In his remarks, the judge emphasized the brutality and emotional cruelty of the crime. He stated, “Two things are patently obvious in this case, one of which is that whatever you did, you did not have her consent because she was asleep. She was absolutely unconscious, and one only had to watch the video to see that. That is why the jury was so quick coming back with a guilty verdict.”

The judge further condemned Buckle’s actions as “completely emotionless” and “dreadful,” highlighting the humiliating impact on the victim. He described the act as a form of abuse and degradation, almost methodical in its execution. The court noted that this was Buckle’s first custodial sentence, and he would receive no credit for pleading guilty to voyeurism, despite denying the rape charge.

The court proceedings also revealed that the assault occurred at a property in Derbyshire, with the victim having reported her suspicions to the police. An investigation uncovered footage of the attack, which led to Buckle’s arrest and subsequent charges. Although he denied the rape, he admitted to voyeurism, which was also considered during sentencing.

In her statement, the victim expressed the devastating impact of the crime on her mental health, describing her experience as a cycle of mental torture. She stated, “I was taken advantage of in a vulnerable situation, and this will stay with me forever. I feel worthless and empty, and I don’t believe he shows any remorse for what he did. I do not think my life will ever be the same again.”

As part of his sentence, Buckle will serve two-thirds of his time behind bars before being eligible for release on licence. Additionally, he will be registered as a sex offender for life, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions related to his criminal behavior.