A rape victim has been commended for her courage after her attacker was jailed for nine years. 

Luke Cromar was sentenced at Winchester Crown Court on Friday after being found guilty of two counts of rape, one of assault by penetration and two counts of coercive and controlling behaviour.

The court heard how the 30-year-old forced himself onto his victim during an incident in January in Southampton. 

The painter and decorator from Bramley Crescent, Sholing initially denied the offences but was convicted after his victim gave evidence at the trial. 

READ MORE: Southampton painter and decorator jailed for raping woman

Now she has been praised for her courage in coming forward and reporting what happened. 

Detective Constable Marie Leather, who led the investigation, said: “Cromar’s prolonged period of abuse, violence and coercive and controlling behaviour, which spanned two years in total, has understandably had a severe impact on the victim, which will stay with her forever.

“While nothing can take that away, I hope that this sentence goes some way into helping her move forward with her life, knowing that Cromar is now behind bars.

“Coercive and controlling behaviour is an act or pattern of acts of assault, threats, humiliation and intimidation or other abuse that is used to harm, punish, or frighten their victim.

"This controlling behaviour is often designed to make a person dependent by isolating them from support, exploiting them, depriving them of independence and regulating their everyday behaviour.

“I am so grateful to the victim and commend her courage in coming forward and reporting what had been happening to her.

"Her bravery throughout the investigation and criminal justice process has helped us put Cromar in jail for what he has done.

“If you have been the victim of rape, sexual abuse, coercive and controlling behaviour, or any form of domestic abuse, please don’t suffer in silence - please report it to us. You will be listened to and you will be supported.”

Cromar was also handed a restraining order and a 15-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order. 

  • If you are a survivor of domestic abuse in Southampton Yellow Door, a local charity, can offer you a range of help and support. You can visit their website at yellowdoor.org.uk or contact them on 023 8063 6312.
  • For more information on the support available, and how to report to police, visit: https://www.hampshire.police.uk/ro/report/rsa/alpha-v1/advice/rape-sexual-assault-and-other-sexual-offences/rape-sexual-assault-support/