A man who removed a condom during sex without consent and falsely claimed to be HIV positive has been jailed for 14 years. Laurence Rafter, 43, of Bittacy Hill, Barnet, was sentenced at Snaresbrook Crown Court on Friday, February 28, after being convicted in October 2024.
The court heard that on July 15, 2021, Rafter contacted a 32-year-old woman on a dating app using the alias 'Jay Lincoln'. He met her at her home in Islington, where he raped her and removed a condom despite her request to wear one. As he left, he falsely told her he was HIV positive.
Detectives identified Rafter through a distinctive tattoo on his arm, which matched photos he had sent to the victim. Investigations revealed he had created a false identity, including a fake driving licence and address, and used a disposable phone to avoid detection. He was employed as an HGV driver but claimed to be a wealthy businessman.
Rafter had a history of predatory behaviour, including a 2022 jail term for malicious communications and threats to disclose private images of two other women. Detective Chief Inspector Paul Ridley praised the victim's bravery and said the sentence reflected the danger Rafter posed to women.
