TONBRIDGE MAN GARY DUKE JAILED FOR DRUGGING AND RAPING WOMAN IN MAIDSTONE
A man named Gary Duke from Tonbridge has been sentenced to prison after committing a sexual assault in Maidstone.The court heard that Duke, 59, persuaded a woman to drink champagne and smoke cannabis, leading her to pass out.
Once she was unconscious, he forced himself on her.
The incident occurred on November 13, 2022, at a property in Maidstone.
Police were alerted after the woman regained consciousness and disclosed that she had been raped.
Duke fled the scene but was later arrested and charged with rape.
Despite his denial, he was found guilty by Maidstone Crown Court and received a 10-year prison sentence.
During the trial, it was highlighted that Duke had consumed alcohol and illegal drugs and encouraged the victim to do the same, with the intent to disarm her for his own sexual gratification.
He falsely claimed to the court that he had sex with her in his sleep without awareness of his actions.
Detective Constable Joanne Burt described the crime as premeditated and noted that Duke showed no remorse, even attempting to lie about his involvement.
The victim demonstrated strength in testifying, which helped secure his conviction.
