Judge Condemns ‘Horrific Abuse’ as Bude Man Jailed for 10 Years

A man from Bude has been jailed for 10 years after being found guilty of raping and abusing a woman in what a judge described as “a campaign of the most horrific abuse”.

Found Guilty of Six Offences

Dylan Cathrae, aged 20 and formerly of Swallow Close, Bude, was convicted by a jury at Truro Crown Court in October. He appeared back in court today, Thursday 6th November, for sentencing.

Cathrae was found guilty of six offences: rape, two counts of assault by penetration, coercive and controlling behaviour, non-fatal strangulation, and witness intimidation. He had previously pleaded guilty to harassment against a second victim.

The court also imposed a restraining order against both victims.

Judge Describes Case as One of the Worst Seen

During the trial, the court heard that Cathrae had raped and sexually assaulted the victim, subjecting her to both physical and emotional abuse, including putting cigarettes out on her.

When questioned by detectives, he denied the reports, claiming the allegations were made up out of jealousy. When officers suggested his behaviour was “obsessive” and “controlling”, he replied, “…how’s that a bad thing?”.

The jury found him guilty on all counts, and during sentencing, the judge told him: “This is one of the worst cases of coercive and controlling behaviour I have seen.”

In a statement read in court, the victim said the crimes had “ruined my life”.

Police Praise Victim’s Courage

Investigating officer DC Isla Ferguson said: “We welcome the sentence given and first and foremost I praise the victim for her strength and courage to report the crimes and support the criminal justice process.

“I hope that the outcome today may help her find some closure.

“I also hope that this case may encourage anyone who has been a victim of a sexual offence to come forward and report it so that we can investigate and take action against perpetrators.”

Support Available

If you have been affected by this article, there is support available.

You can visit victimcare-dc.org for support services and information on your rights and how to navigate the criminal justice system.

You can also call Victim Support on 0808 1689 111 or Devon and Cornwall Police’s Victim Care Unit on 01392 475900.

Further advice and support can be found at:

• National Rape Crisis Helpline – 0808 802 9999

• Devon and Cornwall Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARC) – 0300 303 4626

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