Locations
Castle Marina Road, Nottingham, NG7
Description
It was in January this year, the victim – who is in her 30s and from Leicestershire – made an online report to police regarding stalking and harassment concerns by Whittaker.
After an officer attended to take a statement from her, the woman disclosed a number of offences had occurred.
She told officers he had regularly used threats of violence as a way to control and manipulate her.
He had also raped her, slapped her across the face and on one occasion had kidnapped her - forcing her to drive with him for miles to confront another man she had previously been in a relationship with.
After vital evidence was gathered from the victim, the investigation was handed to detectives working in the force’s dedicated rape and serious sexual offences team.
A policing operation was also put in place to arrest Whittaker so he could be questioned.
Due to the possible risk imposed by the defendant, specialist firearms officers were deployed to Nottingham to bring him into custody.
After being interviewed, a team of detectives worked round-the-clock – some putting in a 24 shift – to ensure Whittaker was successfully charged and remanded.
Detective Constable Jack Grieves was assigned as the officer in the case and throughout this year has worked tirelessly to build a mountain of evidence against Whittaker – including carrying out a number of out of force enquiries to help strengthen the case.
Alongside this, DC Grieves has also been supporting and updating the victim throughout the process – alongside her Independent Sexual Violence Adviser, known as a ISVA.
While awaiting trial, Whittaker committed a further offence by asking a member of his family to contact the victim and try to persuade her to not attend the trial. This led to him being charged with perverting the course of justice.
DC Grieves said:
“Whittaker’s victim felt scared, isolated and was subjected to physical and sexual abuse. She had made reports to police on previous occasions but didn’t want to pursue any further for fear of what he would do.
“In January this year, she did then make an online report which led to the full details of what had occurred coming to light. The courage and strength the victim has shown during the investigation and the court process has been truly incredible.
“This case really has been a team effort. From the officer who attended the initial report, to the arrest, charge and remand of Whittaker and the building of the case ahead of trial. This is a shining example of numerous officers from not only different departments in Leicestershire but also other forces who have work together – striving to ensure justice is served.
“I hope, now he is serving a considerable time behind bars, the victim can begin to put the pain she has endured behind her and move forward with her life.
“I also hope this case offers some reassurance to other people who may be in a similar situation. Please don’t be afraid to come forward if you are suffering or have suffered abuse before. We have specialist teams who deal with both domestic abuse and sexual offences who can help and also ensure you get the right support from other agencies.”