A Swindon man has been sentenced to four years and seven months in prison for raping his ex-partner.
Ricky Sparks, 43, of Buckhurst Crescent, Walcot, received his sentence at Swindon Crown Court on Friday 5th July. This followed the dismissal of his application to change his guilty plea to not guilty.
The assault occurred on December 28th, 2021, at the victim’s home. Sparks was charged with rape in December 2022 and pleaded guilty in early 2023. However, Sparks later accused his legal counsel of pressuring him into the plea. On May 3rd, 2024, the court dismissed his attempt to withdraw his guilty plea.
Sparks was also placed on the Sex Offenders Register indefinitely and given an indefinite restraining order. Additionally, he was ordered to pay a £190 surcharge.
In a statement read to the court, the victim expressed her gratitude: “I am so grateful to Wiltshire Police, in particular Detective Constable Alex Doughty and the Crown Prosecution Service for believing in me and supporting me. The relief I felt when his guilty plea wasn’t overturned was immeasurable. I finally have my life back. I have survived and I can move on to becoming me again.”
Detective Constable Alex Doughty commented: “Mr Sparks has done everything he could in this case to make everyone else out to be a liar and to make himself come out on top.
“I am glad to see him finally be convicted as a rapist and receive a custodial sentence. His victim has been so incredibly brave throughout this police investigation and I wholeheartedly commend her for coming forward to report such a personal and horrific crime. I hope she inspires other victims to come forward and report to the police. Please remember there is support available, including from the Police. You are not alone.”
Victims of rape or sexual assault can report the crime to the police by calling 101, or 999 in an emergency. Reports can also be made online, securely and confidentially, or in person at any police station.
