Couple sentenced to 13-years in prison for rape
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HULL
A couple who pinned a woman down and raped her have been sentenced to a combined total of 13 years and six months behind bars following their appearance Hull Crown Court last week.
Anthony Preston, 22-years-old, of Allendale Hull, was charged with rape and perverting the course of justice and has been sentenced to seven years and six months in prison.
Nicole Rickatson, 27-years-old, also of Allendale in Hull, was charged with rape and has been sentenced to six years in prison.
Leading the investigation was Detective Constable Thomas Birkenhead from our Protecting Vulnerable People Unit, who said: “In December 2023, the woman visited Rickatson and Preston as a known friend to the couple.
“Taking advantage of her trust, both Rickatson and Preston saw this as an opportunity to pin the woman down, assault, and rape her all for their own sexual gratification.
“In an attempt to cover up their act, Preston then proceeded to remove evidence from the bedroom which was later recovered by officers.
“They then refused to admit their crimes and made the woman relive the ordeal all over again by subjecting her to a trial where they were found guilty on Tuesday 4 February 2025.
“I’d like to commend the woman for her bravery and strength in coming forward and reporting both Rickatson and Preston. Whilst the verdict does not take away the continued trauma she must endure, I hope it brings her some form of comfort knowing that they are now behind bars for their incomprehensible crime and can no longer harm anyone else.
“We take all reports of crimes of this nature seriously and would urge anyone who has been a victim of rape to speak to someone they trust and report it to the police.
“When you are ready, you can contact us on our non-emergency number 101 to report what has happened to you, whether it was on the same day, or 20 years ago, it does not matter.
“Always call 999 if you are in immediate danger. We will listen, and we will continue to seek justice for survivors of crimes of this nature.”