Luke Castle

A man from High Wycombe has been imprisoned for 17 years following a brutal sexual attack on a woman in a local park. Luke Castle carried out the assault at The Rye, a popular green space off Bassetsbury Lane, on the evening of December 16, 2023. Emergency services were alerted around 9pm after reports of a rape, leading to Castle's swift arrest later that same day.

The incident shocked the High Wycombe community, particularly as it occurred just before Christmas. Castle was charged with the offences on December 18, 2023, and stood trial at Aylesbury Crown Court. On August 8, 2024, a jury found him guilty of two counts of rape and three counts of sexual assault. The sentencing hearing took place on November 7, 2024, where Judge [Name not specified] imposed a custodial sentence of 17 years, accompanied by an extended licence period of six years to protect the public.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Lily Beavis of Thames Valley Police commended the victim's courage throughout the process. In a statement, she said: "I am pleased that the judge recognised the seriousness of this crime, imposing a sentence which reflects as such. I am grateful that the tireless amount of work put in has been repaid." Beavis also highlighted the exceptional dedication of the victim liaison officer Rebecca Newman and prosecution barrister Jonathan Stone. She emphasised the force's commitment to prosecuting sexual offences, stating: "I would also like to reassure the public that we will always look to prosecute anyone who commits sexual offences, recent or non-recent."

The attack prompted local concern, with Councillor Lesley Clarke OBE urging residents to remain vigilant. She told the Bucks Free Press: "Consider your surroundings and be vigilant... It is unacceptable however women have to accept that they do have to be a little bit more careful in the routes that they choose." Clarke noted that while such incidents are not everyday occurrences, the event had rocked the community and led to increased police patrols in the area. The Rye, known for its recreational paths, became a focal point for discussions on public safety following the assault.

This case underscores the ongoing efforts by Thames Valley Police to support victims and bring perpetrators to justice, as evidenced by the rapid response and thorough investigation that followed the emergency call.