A Tinder date turned into a nightmare in Chippenham when Jake Clark, 29, launched a savage attack less than 24 hours after meeting a woman through the app. The victim, a woman in her 30s, was brutally battered, locked inside Clark’s flat, and had cash stolen from her bank card.
Clark headbutted and punched the woman repeatedly, causing injuries to her eye socket. He also smashed her phone and refused to let her leave the property.
At Swindon Crown Court on 5 December, Clark was found guilty of actual bodily harm and false imprisonment. The judge sentenced him to three years and two months in prison. In addition, Clark received a restraining order lasting five years and nine months, prohibiting any contact with the victim.
Police were alerted at 9am on 7 March after passers-by saw the injured woman begging for help outside Clark’s flat on Hungerdown Lane, Portway. Forensic teams quickly secured the scene as investigations began.
Clark has a history of violence. In 2021, Wiltshire Police recorded an assault where he bit and strangled a girlfriend. He was also serving a suspended sentence for theft, criminal damage, and assault from offences committed in 2018.
Detective Constable Daniel Jackson of Central CID said, “Clark is a violent man – he knew his victim had been searching for companionship but he instead took advantage of this and subjected her to a terrifying ordeal. She has been left feeling extremely anxious and nervous.”
DC Jackson added, “Clark barricaded his victim inside his flat to stop her getting help. It was only thanks to a passer-by that police were called in time to prevent more harm.”
He urged, “We urge everyone using dating apps to stay safe and tell someone where they are going.”
This case serves as a stark warning about the potential dangers of dating apps. The court’s tough sentence sends a clear message that violent abuse, especially targeting vulnerable individuals seeking companionship, will be met with severe justice.
Originally published by UKNIP.
