CrimeEight years behind bars: Oldham man jailed for heinous sexual crimes

Eight years behind bars: Oldham man jailed for heinous sexual crimes

An Oldham man who subjected his victim to multiple oral rapes has been jailed for eight years.

Luke Charlton (27) of Chancery Lane, Shaw, was given the sentence on Wednesday at Minshull Street Crown Court, having pleaded guilty to three counts of rape earlier that day.

A painstaking investigation began in November 2022, after the victim found a video on Charlton’s phone, appearing to show him forcing her into performing a sexual act on him while she was asleep.

She had no recollection of it ever happening.

Whilst Charlton pleaded that this had only happened once, police forensic experts proved this a lie by uncovering multiple videos, showing a repeated pattern of orally raping the victim whilst she slept.

She was taking strong medication which would make it difficult for her to wake during these incidents.

Detective sergeant Kate Dawson of Oldham CID said: “The acts Charlton committed are nothing short of depraved.

“The victim has been incredibly brave. What she had been through is something no-one should ever be put through, and the fact she has remained so strong throughout this investigation and court process should be recognised.

“The defendant offered no comment in interview, not admitting to what he had done. Unfortunately for him, a tenacious team of detectives and staff were committed to leaving no stone unturned in this investigation, to get justice for the victim.

“I know how difficult it can be to come forward about being the victim of sexual offences, but support is available from police, GM Victim Services, and other external agencies and charities, to help you through the process. I would encourage anyone who has been through something similar to contact us, so that we can investigate.”

How to get help

If you or someone you know has been raped or sexually assaulted, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police, or a support agency so you can get the help and support available. You can contact GMP on 101, on our website, or 999 in an emergency.

Helen Greaney
Helen Greaney
I'm a journalist with more than 18 years' experience on local, regional and national newspapers, as well as PR and digital marketing. Crime and the courts is my specialist area but I'm also keen to hear your stories concerning Manchester and the greater North West region.
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