Peter Gilbert Jailed for 20 Years for Rape Offences in Newquay, Plymouth and Truro

‘Extremely Dangerous’ Rapist Jailed for 20 Years After Violent Attacks Across Cornwall and Devon

A 54-year-old man has been jailed for 20 years after being found guilty of carrying out violent rapes in Newquay, Plymouth and Truro.

Peter Gilbert, 54, of Manor Street, Plymouth, appeared at Truro Crown Court for sentence on Wednesday 18th February 2026 after being convicted at trial of three counts of rape.

Peter was also convicted by a jury of one non-sexual offence. He pleaded guilty to breach of a court order and to disclosing an intimate video with intent to cause distress.

He will now be placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register for life and a restraining order has been put in place to protect the victim.

Confession at Police Station

The court heard that in June 2022, Peter attended Charles Cross Police Station in connection with an unrelated matter.

While at the station, he became flustered and began pacing the room before telling officers that he had carried out a sexual offence.

Officers then spoke to the victim while Peter was in custody. She stated that he had raped her on several occasions, including after a night out in Newquay.

The victim described freezing during the attacks and said Peter made a variety of threats against her.

A further attack took place at the victim’s home. During that incident, Peter told her he was twice her size and that she had no choice but to do what he wanted.

The court was told that he made additional threats of violence, including with weapons. He also showed footage of an oral rape to others. He had carefully filmed the attack to ensure she was visible in the footage and not him.

Peter made no comment when interviewed by police.

Judge Describes Serious Violence

During sentencing, Judge Simon Carr said Peter had preyed upon his victim. The judge highlighted the level of violence involved, telling the court that Peter had stubbed out cigarettes on her arms, causing scarring.

Judge Carr also said Peter had filmed the rapes and used the footage as a weapon.

Police Praise Victim’s Courage

Detective Sergeant Megan Cornish said:

“Peter Gilbert is an extremely dangerous rapist and sexual predator who used violence and threats in order to rape his victim.

“Gilbert showed no regard for her wellbeing in his evil pursuit for sexual gratification.

“I would like to praise the immense courage of the victim, who has remained engaged from when she was first spoken to, right through to the court process.

“It is her bravery that has enabled Gilbert to be brought to justice for his crimes.

“While I do not underestimate the psychological damage caused by Gilbert’s actions, I hope she is now able to feel some form of closure.

“We encourage anybody who has been the victim of rape or sexual abuse to report it to us via 101 or our website. Or by 999 if in immediate danger.

“All reports made will be investigated and you will be believed.”

Support Available

Police are encouraging anyone affected by rape or sexual assault not to suffer in silence.

Incidents can be reported to police by calling 101, or 999 in an emergency. Information and crimes can also be reported via the Devon and Cornwall Police website.

Information can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

More information about rape, serious sexual assault and available support services can be found on the Devon and Cornwall Police support pages here:
https://www.devon-cornwall.police.uk/Rape-SexualAssault

Advice and support are also offered by partner agencies:

• National Rape Crisis Helpline 0808 802 9999
• Devon and Cornwall Sexual Assault Referral Centres 0300 3034626

The Stop It Now charity provides an anonymous helpline for anyone with concerns about child sexual abuse and offers support to those worried about their own thoughts, feelings or behaviour, or about another adult or young person: https://www.stopitnow.org.uk/

Anyone affected by crime can access support and information about their rights through Victim Care here: https://victimcare-dc.org/

Victim Support can be contacted on 08 08 16 89 111 and Devon and Cornwall Police’s Victim Care Unit on 01392 475900.