A lorry driver, Laurence Rafter, 43, from Barnet, north London, has been sentenced to 14 years in prison for removing a condom during s£x without his partner’s consent, an act known as “stealthing.” Rafter contacted the 32-year-old victim on a dating app in July 2021, posing as a man named “Jay Lincoln.”
The two met at the woman’s home in Islington, where she explicitly requested he wear a condom. However, during intercourse, Rafter removed the condom without her knowledge or consent. As he left, he falsely claimed to be HIV-positive, causing further distress.
Rafter was found to have used a fake identity, a pre-paid mobile phone, and fabricated documents, including a false address and bank statement, to evade detection. He also falsely claimed to live in a multi-million-pound house, while in reality, he resided in a flat.
In October, a jury found Rafter guilty of r@pe, and he also pleaded guilty to harassing the victim. Additionally, in February 2022, he admitted to malicious communications and threats to disclose private images involving two other victims.
Detective Chief Inspector Paul Ridley praised the survivor for her bravery and highlighted the thorough investigation that led to Rafter’s conviction. He described Rafter as a “predatory offender” who used a fabricated online persona to exploit and harm women.
The case underscores the seriousness of “stealthing” and the importance of consent in all aspects of intimate relationships. Rafter’s sentencing reflects the significant danger he posed to women and the justice system’s commitment to holding such offenders accountable.
