Man Jailed for 13 Years After Raping Two Victims, Including Teen He Met on Snapchat
His sentence has been extended after being convicted of multiple rapes and sexual assaults
Last updated 14th May 2025
A 23-year-old man has been handed an extended 13-year sentence after being convicted of multiple rapes and sexual assaults, including against a 16-year-old girl he met through Snapchat.
Luke Yates, formerly of Wallis Street, Sleaford, Lincolnshire, was sentenced at Northampton Crown Court on April 29 following his conviction in January. His sentence includes 10 years in custody and an additional three years on licence.
The court heard that on March 9, 2022, Northamptonshire Police received a call from a woman reporting that she had been raped and sexually assaulted by Yates after he visited her home to fix her boiler.
During the investigation, a second victim came forward. On July 19, 2022, a 16-year-old girl told police that Yates had raped her during their first meeting, after the pair had connected on the social media platform Snapchat.
Yates was charged with multiple offences: two counts of rape, two counts of assault by penetration, and one count of sexual assault against the first victim; and one count of rape and one count of assault by penetration against the teenager.
He was found guilty by a jury on January 30.
Extended sentences are imposed when the court deems an offender to be dangerous and a continued risk to the public. The sentence means Yates will remain under close supervision after his release and could be recalled to prison if he breaches his licence conditions.
Following the sentencing, Detective Constable Hayley Reed, who led the investigation into the first report, praised the bravery of the survivors: “I am thrilled for the two survivors that Luke Yates has not only been found guilty by a jury for what he put them through, but has been given an extended sentence which recognises the severity of his offending against them.
“Their courage in reporting his abhorrent and entitled actions was significant, and they have held themselves with such dignity and strength throughout the investigation.”
Detective Constable Adam Kelly, who investigated the second report, echoed those sentiments: “Both survivors have shown incredible bravery in giving evidence... They have ensured a dangerous sexual predator is now recognised as such and rightfully deprived of his liberty for a significant time.
“I hope this outcome provides them with a sense of justice and helps them move forward with pride in their bravery and determination.”
Northamptonshire Police encouraged anyone who has experienced sexual violence to come forward, assuring survivors that they will be believed and supported.