A rapist has been given a lengthy prison sentence following the abuse of a woman.
On 21 January 2021, Martin Bugden carried out a violent attack on a victim inside his Ashford home. Despite the victim telling Bugden ‘no’ multiple times, he proceeded to overpower her and raped her. He then dragged the victim by her hair across the floor and told her that if she called the police, he would kill her.
A member of the public in a neighbouring house heard the disturbance and called the police at 11.45pm. Patrols arrived just 10 minutes later and located both the victim and Bugden inside the property. Folllwing enquiries at the scene, he was arrested. During his interview, he continually denied the offences of rape and sexual assault.
He was released on bail whilst the investigation progressed, with strict conditions not to contact the victim. However, less than 2 weeks later, he had begun harassing her persistently over text and through multiple phone calls. This was reported to the police, and Bugden was further arrested for harassment on 19 February. The 32 year old was later charged with 9 sexual offences, including 2 counts of rape.
On Thursday 23 July 2026, Bugden, formerly of an address in Chatham, was sentenced to 12 years in prison at Canterbury Crown Court.
Investigating officer Detective Constable Josh Cooper said:
‘This was a brutal attack that has robbed the victim of her sense of security and has left her with lasting mental anguish. I would like to commend her for her continued resolve throughout this investigative process.
‘I am satisfied that my team was able to secure such a substantial sentence that reflects the severity of his offending. He will be placed behind bars for a considerable amount of time where he can no longer pose a threat to women in our community.’