Nicholas Peel

A former police officer will spend nine years behind bars after raping a woman multiple times.

Nicholas Peel, 55, was jailed thanks to the "courage and conviction" of his victim, police said.

He was found guilty of raping his victim four times and attempting to rape her a further time following a trial at Salisbury Crown Court in March. Today, at Winchester Crown Court, he was jailed for nine years.

Peel, formerly of Marlborough in Wiltshire but now living in Rochford, Essex, previously worked as a police officer for Thames Valley Police, the force has been approached for comment.

Peel targeted his victim - a woman in her 50s who was known to him – between 2015 and 2020.

Investigating officer DC Jo Newbery said: "I'd like to praise the victim in this case for having the courage and conviction to see this case through, which has resulted in Nicholas Peel being jailed for his abhorrent actions.

"Peel repeatedly targeted her and raped her over a number of years, and then denied the offences, forcing her to relive the experiences through a trial.

"Her incredible bravery in giving evidence and statements ensured that Peel was found guilty by jury for his crimes, and he now faces spending several years behind bars.

"I hope that this sentence inspires others who have suffered sexual violence to come forward and report incidents to the police where we will endeavour to support you."

As well as his jail sentence, Peel will also have to sign on to the Sex Offender's Register indefinitely.