LEWIS STEWART SENTENCED TO LIFE IN PRISON FOR RAPE OFFENSES IN HOLSWORTHY AND TORQUAY

A 28-year-old man has received a life sentence in connection with the brutal assault and rape of two women earlier this year. Lewis Stewart, who has no fixed address and hails from the Torbay area, was convicted of three counts of rape following a nine-day trial at Exeter Crown Court. In addition to the convictions, Stewart pleaded guilty to charges of possession of illegal substances and breaching a Sexual Harm Prevention Order.

The judge, Judge Climie, presided over the case and ordered that Stewart serve a minimum term of 18 years before being eligible for parole. This decision reflects the severity of his crimes and the danger he poses to the public.

The court proceedings revealed disturbing details of Stewart’s actions on the night of January 21. It was established that Stewart had been out on the town in Torquay’s bustling town center, where he targeted two women whom he perceived to be vulnerable. Surveillance footage from CCTV cameras clearly showed Stewart following and watching the women attentively. Following this, he arranged for a taxi to transport them to an undisclosed address.

During the ride, Stewart subjected both women to rape, asserting his dominance and control over them. The following day, he boasted about his actions to the victims, demonstrating a disturbing sense of manipulation and lack of remorse.

The police investigation intensified when Stewart was arrested, and authorities seized his phone. In the device, officers discovered a photograph of one of the victims in a distressed and compromised state. Additionally, the phone contained evidence of drug possession and dealing, which was indicative of Stewart’s wider criminal behavior.

The jury unanimously found Stewart guilty of all three counts of rape after carefully considering the evidence presented during the nine-day trial. The ruling underscores the seriousness with which the justice system treats such heinous offenses.

Investigating officer Detective Sergeant Parsons commented on the case, highlighting the threat Stewart continues to pose. He stated, ‘Stewart presents a real risk to the public and this is reflected in the sentence he has been given by the courts. His crimes have profoundly affected his victims and their families. I commend their bravery in coming forward and reporting what happened to them.’

DS Parsons further described Stewart as a ‘highly sophisticated and manipulative offender,’ noting his controlling and coercive behavior towards women, a trait that emerged clearly during the investigation.

Superintendent Nicky Seager, responsible for overseeing sexual offense investigations, expressed pride in the successful prosecution. She emphasized that Devon and Cornwall Police are committed to safeguarding communities and providing support to victims. She explained that this case exemplifies effective collaboration between police and the Crown Prosecution Service, leading to swift justice.

Seager reassured victims of such crimes that efforts are ongoing to improve investigative methods and responses to sexual offenses. She highlighted that this successful outcome demonstrates that justice can be achieved efficiently and serves as a deterrent to potential offenders.

Mark Major from the Crown Prosecution Service praised the victims for their resilience and bravery, thanking them for cooperating with law enforcement and supporting the prosecution. He reaffirmed the importance of holding offenders like Stewart accountable for their actions, reinforcing that such crimes will be scrutinized and prosecuted vigorously.