HERTFORD MAN SENTENCED FOR MULTIPLE SEXUAL OFFENCES

A man, Luke Plant, known as the Hertford Rapist, has been sentenced to over 10 years in prison after being convicted of multiple sexual offences including rape, digital penetration, and sexual assault.Luke Plant, aged 27 and residing on Westfield Road in Hertford, was sentenced at St Albans Crown Court on Friday, November 29, 2024, following a trial that lasted three weeks.Following an investigation by the Hertfordshire Constabulary’s Sexual Offences Investigation Team (SOIT), he received a sentence of nine years' imprisonment for the offences listed below:One count of rapeOne count of digital penetrationTwo counts of sexual assaultHe was also given an additional two-year extended license because he was classified as a dangerous criminal, making his total sentence 11 years. He must serve at least two-thirds of his sentence before parole can be considered.The criminal acts took place from March 2015 to January 2020 and involved three different victims.Plant was acquitted of one charge of inducing a person to engage in sexual activity without consent, as well as being found not guilty of assault by penetration and attempted sexual assault involving a fourth victim.Judge Ian Stern KC commented during the trial: “You are a predator, your behaviour is predatory and reckless and there is a high risk of you causing harm to the public.”Detective Constable Jane Swift from SOIT expressed her commendation to the victims, saying: “The brave victims who came forward deserve enormous credit for helping secure Luke Plant's conviction. We hope this sentencing brings some closure. Reporting sexual offences is difficult, but we treat all reports seriously and are committed to justice. Our specially trained officers support victims and protect the LGBT+ community.”Victims are encouraged to report any sexual assault, regardless of how long ago it occurred, by contacting local police online, via web chat, or by calling 101. The Hertfordshire Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) provides support and can be contacted at 0330 223 0099 or via their website.If you or someone you know has been affected, please report to the police or visit online resources and support pages for further help. Anonymous reporting is available through Crimestoppers.