Twisted Rapist Receives 20-Year Sentence for Filmed Attacks and Cigarette Burns
A dangerous sexual predator who filmed his assaults and burned his victim with cigarettes has been handed a 20-year prison sentence following what a judge described as a calculated campaign of intimidation and violence.
Horrific Abuse Across Multiple Locations
Peter Gilbert, 54, of Manor Street in Plymouth, subjected his victim to multiple rapes across Newquay, Truro, and Plymouth, using weapons, threats, and psychological manipulation to dominate her. The court heard how Gilbert would boast about his size and strength, leaving his victim frozen in terror during the attacks.
In one particularly disturbing incident, Gilbert stubbed out cigarettes on his victim's arms, causing permanent scarring. He told her she had "no choice" but to comply during an assault at her home, demonstrating the complete control he exerted through fear.
Weaponized Footage for Continued Coercion
Judge Simon Carr at Truro Crown Court highlighted how Gilbert had "weaponized" a recording he made of one sexual assault, using the footage to deepen fear and exert further control long after the actual attack. Gilbert had carefully filmed the assault to ensure his victim was visible while keeping himself out of frame.
The court heard that Gilbert later showed this footage to others and made additional threats of violence with weapons. He admitted to disclosing an intimate video with intent to cause distress, alongside breaching a court order.
Investigation and Conviction
The case came to light in June 2022 when Gilbert walked into Charles Cross police station on an unrelated matter. Becoming visibly agitated, he eventually told officers he had committed a sexual offence. While he was in custody, police contacted the victim, who disclosed that Gilbert had raped her on several occasions, including after a night out in Newquay.
A jury found Gilbert guilty of three counts of rape and one non-sexual offence. He was sentenced on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, receiving 20 years in prison, a lifetime requirement to sign the Sex Offenders' Register, and a restraining order to protect his victim.
Police Praise Victim's Courage
Detective Sergeant Megan Cornish commended the victim's bravery, stating: "Peter Gilbert is an extremely dangerous rapist and sexual predator who used violence and threats in order to rape his victim. Gilbert showed no regard for her wellbeing in his evil pursuit for sexual gratification."
"I would like to praise the immense courage of the victim, who has remained engaged from when she was first spoken to, right through to the court process. It is her bravery that has enabled Gilbert to be brought to justice for his crimes."
DS Cornish added: "While I do not underestimate the psychological damage caused by Gilbert's actions, I hope she is now able to feel some form of closure. We encourage anybody who has been the victim of rape or sexual abuse to report it to us via 101 or our website, or by 999 if in immediate danger. All reports made will be investigated and you will be believed."
