A MAN has been jailed after being found guilty of rape and stalking.

Joshua Theophanides, 37, from Kingsteignton, Newton Abbot, was sentenced at Exeter Crown Court after being convicted at trial of one count of rape and three stalking offences.

Theophanides was given an extended sentence, comprising 11 years in custody and a further four to be served on extended licence. He must also sign the Sex Offenders’ Register for life and was made subject of a Sexual Harm Prevention Order lasting 20 years. Restraining orders were made to protect all three victims in the case.

During the trial, the court heard how Theophanides raped a woman, an attack which had a devastating psychological effect on her.

Theophanides also created a succession of fictitious social media accounts across various platforms to follow and contact the victim and someone known to her to obtain information about their personal lives.

Theophanides then undertook a similar pattern of stalking behaviour with another woman he later met on a dating app, again obtaining private information for his own sexual gratification.

Theophanides denied the allegations in interview and even suggested they were a conspiracy against him from the victims.

Investigating officer DC Rachael Delaney said: ‘Theophanides is the master of manipulation and got away with his offending behaviour for far too long on a web of lies.

‘He used his manipulation to control his victims and even blamed them in interview.

‘I am so proud of their bravery and courage in coming forward and reporting these offences to the police and I hope this result gives other victims of rape and stalking offences to speak out.

‘These stalking offences were committed behind social media platforms, having a huge impact on the lives of the victims involved. It cannot be underestimated the devastation he has caused to the victims involved.’

If you or someone you know has been a victim of rape or sexual assault, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police by calling 101, or 999 in an emergency.

Alternatively, you can report information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.