Rapist jailed for repeated sexual offences and coercive control – Didcot

Following a Thames Valley Police investigation, a rapist has been jailed after being convicted of repeated sexual offences, coercive control and a number of other serious offences against multiple victims in Didcot.

Mike Loveridge, aged 18, of Newbury Road, Didcot, was sentenced at Oxford Crown Court on Thursday (29/10) to eight years in prison with a four-year extension period, making a total sentence of 12 years.

The sentence follows a four-day trial at High Wycombe Magistrates’ Court, sitting as a Youth Court, where on 24 September he was found guilty of three counts of rape and one count each of controlling and coercive behaviour, causing a female aged 13 or over to engage in sexual activity without consent, exposure, and causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal.

Loveridge was also sentenced for additional offences committed against other victims between April and May 2026, including one count each of harassment, harassment by breaching a restraining order, sending grossly offensive, indecent or menacing communications, and intimidating a witness.

The court also imposed five restraining orders to protect victims and granted an indefinite animal disqualification order, preventing Loveridge from keeping or being involved in the care of horses.

The court heard that between January and June this year, Loveridge subjected one of the victims to serious sexual violence and controlling behaviour.

His controlling and coercive behaviour included isolating the victim, making threats, subjecting her to violence and intimidation, and creating an atmosphere of fear. On one occasion, Loveridge contacted a funeral director in the victim’s presence to arrange her funeral.

Loveridge was arrested on 8 June and charged the following day.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Angelique Lihou said: “Mike Loveridge’s offending was serious, persistent and caused significant harm to a number of victims. Thanks to their courage in coming forward and supporting the investigation, he has now been held fully accountable for his actions.

“This outcome is the result of a thorough investigation and demonstrates our determination to pursue offenders and put them before the courts, regardless of their age.

“The sentence imposed reflects the gravity of these offences and the risk Loveridge poses to others. I would encourage anyone who has been the victim of crime to come forward and report it. We will listen, investigate thoroughly and do everything we can to bring offenders to justice.”

If you have been affected by rape or sexual assault, support is available whether or not you choose to report the offence to police. Find out more about the support available here.

AP