Bude Man Jailed for Rape and Intimidation Campaign Against Victim

Published On: 6 October 2025Last Updated: 6 October 2025By CornishStuff

A Bude man has been jailed for nine years after raping a woman and then launching a campaign of intimidation that included slashing her car tyres and breaking into her home wearing a mask.

Nine-Year Sentence and Lifetime Restrictions

Luke Clements, 52, formerly of Upton, Bude, appeared at Truro Crown Court for sentence on Thursday 2nd October after being convicted by a jury of rape, sexual assault, sexual assault by penetration, witness intimidation, possession of a bladed article and assault by beating.

He had already pleaded guilty to criminal damage and being concerned in the supply of cocaine.

Clements was sentenced to nine years in prison, placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register for life, and given a life term restraining order to protect the victim and her family.

The Attack

The court heard that in March 2025, the victim went to Clements’ home for a pre-arranged coffee. She reported that the atmosphere changed during the visit and that Clements began touching her without consent.

When she tried to leave, Clements forced her upstairs and raped her. She immediately left and contacted the police.

Officers attended the address that evening and arrested Clements, who claimed the sexual contact was consensual. He was released the following afternoon with bail conditions not to contact the victim directly or indirectly.

Campaign of Intimidation

The next day, the victim discovered that her car tyres had been slashed with a knife. She had never previously experienced any issues with neighbours or anyone else.

An emergency alarm was installed at her home, but soon after, her son noticed the dogs barking. When he went downstairs, he found Clements inside the house wearing a black mask and hood.

As he tried to flee, Clements assaulted him and produced a Stanley knife. The son managed to detain Clements until officers arrived.

Police took Clements into custody, where he was charged and remanded.

Evidence of Drug Supply

A download of Clements’ phone revealed evidence linking him to the supply of cocaine between 2022 and 2024. He was also found to have made comments about filling the victim’s door locks with silicone or adhesive and was carrying a silicone gun when arrested.

Detective Praises Victim’s Courage

Detective Constable Tom Graham, the officer in the case, said:

“This conviction sends a clear message that such horrific crimes will not go unpunished.

I want to pay tribute to the incredible bravery of the victim in coming forward and supporting this investigation. It takes immense courage to speak out and her strength was vital in securing today’s outcome.

We know how difficult it can be for survivors of sexual offences to report what has happened to them. I want to reassure anyone who has experienced anything similar that we will listen, we will believe you and we will do everything in our power to seek justice.

Our priority is always the safety, dignity and wellbeing of the victims and we remain committed to working tirelessly to bring perpetrators of such horrific crimes like Clements before the courts.”