A man has been jailed for over 11 years after raping a stranger at knifepoint in a “horrific attack”. Kurtis Harper, 31, broke into his victim’s home in Hopton-on-Sea, Norfolk, on December 14, before raping him and stealing items including jewellery and money. Harper, of Ordnance Road, Great Yarmouth, was handed a life sentence, with a minimum of 11 years and 109 days, at Norwich Crown Court on Friday, August 29.
He admitted possessing a knife, but denied two counts of rape, one count of sexual assault and one count of aggravated burglary. He was convicted by a unanimous jury verdict during a six-day trial in June. The court heard how the victim had been sleeping, and woke up to the 31-year-old standing above him holding a knife. Harper then launched a two-hour attack, telling the man that he didn’t know whether to leave him dead or alive before fleeing the scene.
He took bedsheets, jewellery, two knives and money for a bus journey with him, the Norfolk Constabulary said.
His victim called the police as soon as he left, and the 31-year-old was identified and arrested by patrolling officers shortly afterwards.
Investigating officer DC Matthew Hubbard said: “This was a horrifying attack carried out at knife point in the victim’s own home by a man he did not know.
“The victim has shown immense bravery throughout the investigation and this has resulted in a dangerous offender being brought to justice.”
“I would like to personally thank the victim and his family for their unwavering courage throughout the legal process,” he added.
“Our thoughts remain with them and we hope today’s sentence provides some measure of justice and reassurance.
“We will always stand beside victims to ensure those responsible are held to account.”
The knife used in the attack was also destroyed as part of Harper’s sentence.