News / Crime
Man jailed for nine years for rape and coercive control
A woman who was raped in Bristol has said she hopes her case will show other victims “that you can be believed”.
Bibak Singh, aged 37 of Stonebridge Park in Fishponds, was jailed for nine years after being found guilty of rape and controlling and coercive behaviour.
The victim, who has not been named due to anonymity laws, said the abuse had “permanently changed” her life.
In a personal statement prepared for the court, the victim said: “I feel as if I am living a life sentence because of what was done to me.
“What he has done to me has permanently changed who I am and how I live my life.
“By going through the police investigation and court, I hope I have shown how strong and resilient I can be after being put down and mistreated.
“I hope this shows others in my situation that you can be believed and that behaviour like this is not acceptable in any situation.”
Detective sergeant Matthew Beavis described the offences as “deeply disturbing”.
“The victim has shown remarkable strength and resilience throughout both the investigation and the court process,” he said.
“She has made clear her hope that others will feel empowered to come forward and stand up to those who seek to control and repress them.
“This was a deeply disturbing offence. Singh’s actions were calculated and sustained, and the victim has been left to live with the long‑term effects of his manipulation, violence and control.
“This case underlines the importance of empowering victims, and I hope it gives others the confidence to speak out and seek justice.”
Singh was convicted at Bristol Crown Court on Friday and must serve a minimum of two-thirds of his sentence in prison before he can be eligible for parole.
Anyone affected by issues in this story can contact Refuge’s national domestic abuse helpline on 0808 2000 247 or live chat service here.
Main photo: Betty Woolerton
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