Plymouth Teeth Whitening Salon Owner Sentenced for Rape
A Plymouth man has been sentenced to 26 years in prison for multiple sexual offenses, including rape. Ricky Stubberfield, 31, operated a teeth whitening salon and exploited young women by offering free treatments as a lure.
Plymouth Teeth Whitening Salon Owner Sentenced for Rape
Stubberfield, of Walnut Gardens, Plympton, was found guilty of 23 sexual offenses spanning from 2013 to 2024. His victims included seven women, with charges including eight counts of rape, nine counts of sexual assault, and four counts of digital penetration.
Court Proceedings and Victim Impact
The case was presented in Plymouth Crown Court, where testimonies revealed the extent of the trauma inflicted on the victims. Stubberfield had used social media to contact young women, enticing them with free treatments in exchange for promotion of his business, Essex Smiles.
- Victims reported abuse at the salon and various locations.
- Incidents occurred between 2022 and 2024.
- Some assaults took place at a concert and in other public settings.
During the trial, one victim shared her painful experience, stating she felt compelled to leave Plymouth due to the trauma. Another victim expressed feeling unsafe and described how she felt “ashamed, guilty, and completely alone.”
Police Response and Community Impact
Devon and Cornwall Police indicated that Stubberfield was first reported in February 2022 after a 16-year-old girl disclosed that he had sexually assaulted her at a concert. His arrest occurred in June 2024.
Detective Constable Kezia Worden remarked on the case’s significance, saying it sends a strong message about the community’s stance against violence toward women. She commended the victims for their bravery in coming forward.
The case underscores the urgent need for accountability and support for those affected by sexual violence. For those in need of assistance, resources such as the BBC Action Line are available.
