Richard Scaife

A man from Dover has been sentenced to 20 years in prison after subjecting a woman to a violent rape involving threats with a knife and an imitation firearm. The incident, described by police as a 'terrifying ordeal', took place at the victim's home in Folkestone, Kent, on 5 November 2021.

Richard Scaife, aged 46 and residing on Camden Crescent in Dover, arranged to meet the woman, who was working as a sex worker, at her flat. Upon arrival, Scaife grabbed her by the throat and informed her that he had a knife, before raping her. He then retrieved a fake gun from his jacket, locked the door, and raped the victim for a second time. The woman managed to persuade Scaife to leave the property, after which she immediately contacted the police.

Armed officers responded swiftly and arrested Scaife on Tontine Street as he attempted to flee the scene in his car. Bodycam footage captured the moment of his apprehension. A search of his vehicle revealed a small folding knife, a bayonet, an imitation firearm, and strips of duct tape attached to the inside of his jacket. Further investigation at his home uncovered a samurai sword, a machete, and a knuckleduster, highlighting the extent of his possession of dangerous weapons.

Scaife was charged with two counts of rape and possession of an imitation firearm with intent to commit an indictable offence by detectives from the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate. Following a trial at Canterbury Crown Court, he was found guilty on all counts and sentenced on 29 July 2022. The judge recognised the severity of the ordeal inflicted on the victim, as noted in court proceedings.

Detective Sergeant Dan Barker of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate commented: 'Scaife put this victim through a terrifying ordeal and - like the judge recognised in court. I would also like to praise her bravery in assisting our investigation and the resulting prosecution. Scaife’s actions and the weapons he had in his possession present a disturbing portrait of a man who posed a serious danger to women and girls.' Barker further emphasised the police's commitment to tackling violence against women and girls, stating that every woman and girl has a right to feel safe in their communities. The fast response by officers ensured Scaife's quick arrest and the seizure of the weapons involved.

This case, reported by ITV News Meridian and sourced from Kent Police, underscores the dangers posed by individuals like Scaife and the importance of victim support in securing justice.