A man who raped two women and subjected both victims to a prolonged campaign of physical and sexual torture has been jailed for 20 years. Harry Arnold, 38, from Folkstone, formerly of The Street, Newington, was convicted of multiple sexual offences after two trials at Canterbury Crown Court.
The court heard how Arnold inflicted repeated humiliation, degradation and violent abuse on the two women, who did not know each other, as he forced them to take part in his extreme sexual fantasies without consent. Kent Police launched an investigation in February 2020 after one victim came forward. Arnold was arrested within two days. A second victim later contacted officers, describing similar abuse at his hands.
Specialist detectives spent years building the case, examining 15 electronic devices, medical records and witness statements. The file was passed to the Crown Prosecution Service in February 2023.
Arnold was charged and pleaded not guilty. In February 2025, a jury convicted him of controlling and coercive behaviour but could not reach a verdict on the rape charges, forcing a retrial.
In March 2026, following the second trial at Canterbury Crown Court, he was convicted of eight further offences, including multiple counts of rape against both women.
On Wednesday, May 13, Arnold was sentenced to 20 years in prison. He will serve a further three years on licence and remain on the sex offenders register for life.
He was also made subject to a restraining order and barred from working with children or vulnerable adults indefinitely.
Detective Constable Lizzie Burridge, the investigating officer, said: “This significant custodial sentence is the right outcome for a depraved sexual aggressor.
“It is a testament to the immense courage of his victims, who endured unimaginable abuse and then had to go through two trials to see justice done.
“It also reflects the hard work of officers who spent years meticulously building this complex case. We are committed to pursuing sex offenders and ensuring they face the consequences of their actions.”