Serial Rapist Sentenced to Life for Treating Women as "Pieces of Meat"

Craig Gladwin, 32, from Selby, has been sentenced to life in prison after admitting to raping three women and subjecting them to horrific violence. He was described by the court as manipulative and cocky, treating women as "pieces of meat" and showing no remorse for his actions.

Gladwin's reign of terror spanned several months, with the first rape occurring in the summer of 2018. He strangled one victim to the point of unconsciousness, wrapping his belt around her neck. The woman was particularly vulnerable at the time due to a personal tragedy and initially kept quiet about the attack.

In September 2018, Gladwin raped a second woman, again strangling her until she lost consciousness. Upon regaining consciousness, he threatened her, saying, "You're not leaving this house alive."

While on bail for the first two rapes, Gladwin met another woman online in January 2020. He attacked her, grabbing her as she tried to escape and stating, "Well, to be honest with you, I may as well rape you: I'm off to prison anyway."

The victim described Gladwin as a "wicked, scary man." She reported him to the police, leading to his arrest and subsequent confession to all three rapes.

The victims suffered severe psychological and physical trauma as a result of Gladwin's crimes. One victim reported being terrified to go out, having nightmares, and needing medication. Another victim suffered severe anxiety and had to take three months off work, eventually needing to move house due to the trauma.

In court, Gladwin showed no remorse and appeared indifferent to the consequences of his actions. He was described as a "dangerous individual" who poses a significant risk to the public.

Recorder Richard Woolfall, who presided over the case, stated that this was the "worst case of its kind" he had encountered in his ten years on the bench. He condemned Gladwin's "total disregard" for the law and his lack of empathy for his victims.

Gladwin will serve a minimum of two-thirds of his 17-and-a-half-year sentence before being eligible for parole. However, he will remain on prison license for life, subject to strict conditions, even if released.