PETER RUBENS SENTENCED TO 20 YEARS FOR RAPE IN BRANDON AND IPSWICH

In a case that has shocked the community of Brandon and the surrounding areas, Peter Rubens, aged 62, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term after being convicted of multiple serious sexual offenses involving a teenage girl. The conviction was handed down at Ipswich Crown Court in December, following a detailed trial that revealed disturbing details about Rubens's conduct and the manipulative tactics he employed to control his young victim.

Rubens was found guilty of six counts of rape, three counts of sexual activity with a child, and one count of attempting to pervert the course of justice. These charges stemmed from incidents that took place over a period of two years, from June 2008 to June 2010. The court also noted that Rubens had previously pleaded guilty to one of the sexual activity charges, but was acquitted of an additional charge of indecent assault. The jury's verdict was clear in establishing his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

During the sentencing hearing, Judge Martyn Levett emphasized the gravity of Rubens's crimes, especially considering the significant age difference between him and his young victim. The judge stated that only a substantial custodial sentence could adequately reflect the seriousness of the offenses. As part of his punishment, Rubens was sentenced to 20 years in prison, with an additional five-year extension, meaning he will remain incarcerated for at least 25 years before being eligible for release on license. Furthermore, the judge ordered Rubens to sign the Sexual Offences Register indefinitely, a measure that underscores the ongoing risk he poses to the community.

At the time of his arrest, Rubens was residing on Elizabeth Road in Brandon, but during the court proceedings, his address was listed as Norwich Prison. The court heard that Rubens had attempted to manipulate the legal process by writing letters after his arrest, in which he tried to persuade his sister to convince the girl to withdraw her allegations. These letters revealed an attempt to influence the victim's testimony and avoid conviction. Additionally, Rubens had threatened the girl, warning her that she could get into trouble for benefit fraud if she testified against him, further illustrating his manipulative and coercive behavior.

The prosecution, led by Richard Burrington, painted a disturbing picture of grooming and control. Burrington explained that Rubens had discouraged the girl from having boyfriends and had tried to dominate her by buying her presents, thereby gaining