Man jailed for rape and coercive behaviour

A man from Haverhill has been sentenced for rape and controlling and coercive behaviour.

Nathan Staples, (pictured above) of Rowan Close, in Haverhill, was jailed for 10 years and six months at Peterborough Crown Court yesterday (Thursday, September 25).

It follows his guilty pleas at an earlier hearing to rape, sexual assault by penetration and controlling and coercive behaviour.

The victim and Staples had been in a relationship during which he would make the victim account for her whereabouts.

He would insist she Facetime him to show him who she was with.

The 38-yeard-old also made the victim share her location so he could see where she was so he could track her location as well as demanded she sends screenshots and photos of her surroundings.

The suspect would also call and message the victim persistently whilst she was out.

Staples also demanded he look at the victim’s phone and would fight her to get the phone if she refused.

He was arrested in November 2024 and was subsequently charged and remanded in custody for the offences.

As well as the jail term Staples will be subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order.

Detective Constable Sam Flatt, the officer in charge of the case said: “This is a truly horrific case where the victim was subject to emotional, physical, and sexual abuse over a period of only a few months from first meeting Staples.

“For those experiencing controlling and coercive behaviour it has a significant adverse impact on the victim’s quality of life, isolating them from their friends and family and making them feel trapped.

“I’d like to pay tribute to the victim in this case, who despite being subject to some truly abhorrent controlling behaviour, found great courage in coming forward and reporting what happened to her.

“We treat all reports of sexual abuse and controlling or coercive behaviour seriously and have specialist safeguarding officers who will support victims and seek justice against perpetrators.

“Domestic abuse isn’t always physical and I would urge anyone who is victim of domestic abuse to contact the police or the Suffolk Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0800 977 5690. Please don’t suffer in silence.

“If this is happening to you, it is important to remember that it is not your fault, and you need help and support to keep safe.

“If you feel in immediate danger as a result of domestic abuse, dial 999 straight away and, if possible, wait in a safe place for the police to arrive .”