Peterborough rapist case to feature on national TV

A rape investigation which resulted in a sexual predator being jailed for more than ten years is set to feature in a two-part special of a popular TV show.

24 Hours in Police Custody followed DCI Helen Tebbit and her team after a young woman came forward in August last year to say she had been raped.

During a search of the Peterborough home of the rapist, 34-year-old Craig France, officers found several hidden cameras.

The team was faced with the difficult task of trawling through more than 6,000 disturbing images and videos.

And as a result, officers delivered the devastating news to three other victims that unbeknown to them they had been filmed by France.

The programme will show how France preyed on his victims in what, for him, had become “a way of life”. 

Viewers will see some of his victims talk candidly about the long-lasting impact of France’s crimes, with one saying, “he took our dignity”.

DCI Tebbit said: “Firstly, I would like to give my heartfelt thanks to the victims, who, despite their ordeals, supported the investigation and bravely shared their stories on 24 Hours in Police Custody.

“This programme will show that sexual predators can cleverly disguise their depraved behaviours - victims may not realise they are being groomed.

“France portrayed himself as everyone’s best friend – caring, fun, and provided what his victims thought was a safe place to party.

“But in reality, he preyed on young women who had barely entered adulthood for his own sexual gratification.”

DCI Tebbit said that due to the amount of footage and the nature of France’s offending, it was possible there were further victims yet to be identified.

“I would encourage anyone who thinks they might’ve been a victim of a sexual offence to contact us on 101 or via web chat on the force website”, she said.

“We take all reports of sexual offences very seriously. We have a dedicated team of specially trained officers ready to investigate allegations promptly, fully and professionally, and a network of partnership agencies and support services to offer assistance and support.”

24 Hours in Police Custody: "Nightclub Predator" is due be shown at 9pm on Sunday and Monday (6 and 7 July) on Channel 4.