A 47-year-old Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) man was sentenced for the brutal assault, robbery, and rape of a 64-year-old pensioner in 2021.

Broan Luke called ‘Brian’ pleaded guilty to charges of rape, robbery, assault, and burglary during a hearing held before Justice Simone Morris-Ramlall at the Berbice High Court.

During the sentencing hearing on Wednesday, the court heard from a probation officer of the lasting trauma suffered by the victim. The woman is unable to sleep in her own bed and continues to be haunted by the memories of Luke’s barbaric actions.

Police Prosecutor Muntaz Ali emphasised the necessity of safeguarding vulnerable individuals in society. He pointed out that Luke broke into the woman’s house and subjected her to brutal and inhumane treatment.

In delivering her sentencing remarks, Justice Morris-Ramlall expressed her concern over Luke’s lack of remorse and the severe psychological trauma endured by the victim.

The judge took into consideration the nature and prevalence of the offenses committed by Luke, aiming to send a strong message to potential offenders with similar intentions.

Consequently, Luke was sentenced to 20 years in prison.

According to reports, the incident took place on August 15, 2021. The victim, who shared her home with her granddaughter, had secured the premises before retiring to bed around 6:00 p.m. However, at approximately 2:00 a.m. the following morning, Luke forcibly entered her house.

Luke went into the victim’s bedroom, gripping her neck and threatening to kill her if she made any noise. He held a knife against her neck and began assaulting her, repeatedly striking her face, head, and neck. He then pulled her hair, dragging her off the bed, and demanded money and gold.

The victim’s granddaughter woke up during the terrifying ordeal and started crying. Luke ordered the woman to silence the child, despite her pleas not to harm the innocent girl.

According to the prosecution’s account, Luke later dragged the victim to the inner stairway, still holding a knife to her neck, and ordered her to remove her underwear under the threat of stabbing her. He proceeded to sexually assault her both vaginally and orally.

The horrifying attack lasted for approximately an hour, during which the victim lost consciousness. Luke also forced the victim to hand over $100,000 that she had kept in a safe.

When the victim regained consciousness, she immediately contacted her son, who then reported the incident to the police.

Police officers arrived at the scene, and the victim was taken to the hospital for medical attention. Luke was subsequently arrested at his residence. During police questioning, he admitted to consuming vodka and marijuana before arriving at the pensioner’s home.