PETER WILKINSON SENTENCED IN TAVISTOCK FOR DECADES OF SEXUAL ABUSE ON VULNERABLE WOMEN

Peter Wilkinson, a 53-year-old man residing in Drake Gardens, Tavistock, Devon, has been handed down a significant prison sentence after a court found him guilty of a series of heinous sexual offenses committed over a span of more than a decade. The conviction, which was delivered at Plymouth Crown Court, encompasses a total of 21 separate charges, reflecting the severity and extent of Wilkinson's criminal behavior.

Wilkinson was accused of and convicted for multiple counts of rape, serious sexual assault, physical violence, and strangulation. These crimes primarily targeted four women, all of whom were described as particularly vulnerable due to their circumstances. The court heard that Wilkinson's offending period stretched from 2012 to 2024, during which he engaged in acts that the judge, Mr. Justice Robert Linford, described as having 'dredged the depths of depravity.' The judge characterized Wilkinson as a 'sexual predator,' emphasizing that he deliberately selected and preyed upon women he deemed suitable for his predatory behavior.

Following a thorough investigation by Devon and Cornwall Police, Wilkinson was arrested in October 2023 after reports emerged of repeated sexual abuse. The police investigation uncovered additional victims, bringing the total to five women who had suffered at his hands. During the sentencing hearing, several victims delivered impact statements, revealing the profound and lasting effects of Wilkinson's actions. One victim expressed her fear and reluctance to face Wilkinson again, stating, 'He hurt me, he frightened me and he forced me to do things I did not want to do.' Another victim shared her ongoing struggles with nightmares and flashbacks, describing herself as feeling 'vulnerable, frightened and exhausted.'

Despite Wilkinson's claims of having an intellectual disability, the judge made it clear that he was aware of the difference between right and wrong. The court underscored that Wilkinson's crimes were of a particularly depraved nature, with the judge reiterating that his actions had 'dredged the depths of depravity.' The case was considered one of the most disturbing handled by police officer DC Craig Ferguson, who praised the bravery of the victims for coming forward and sharing their experiences.

As a result of his conviction, Wilkinson was sentenced to 30 years in prison, with an additional five years on license. Furthermore, he is required to sign the Sex Offenders' Register for life, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities. The police force highlighted the disturbing nature of Wilkinson's offenses, noting that his arrest was prompted by a report of sexual abuse, which led to a comprehensive investigation that uncovered multiple victims. The case underscores the importance of victim bravery and the relentless efforts of law enforcement to bring such offenders to justice.