Man, 42, sentenced for controlling and raping former partner

A 42-year-old man has been sentenced to seven years and nine months in prison after being found guilty of coercive & controlling behaviour and two counts of rape.

Jody Alan Cook, previously of Daventry, was in a relationship with a woman for 21 years during which he was violent, manipulative and controlling.

Over the course of their relationship, Cook continuously accused the woman of cheating on him and isolated her from her family and friends as he didn’t like her having contact with other people.

She wasn’t allowed a contract phone, instead – having to use pay as you go, with all of her passwords shared with Cook so he could check up on her regularly.

She tried to leave him on numerous occasions, but Cook would always stop her, going so far as to block her car in with his truck and on one occasion, removing the battery from her car so she was unable to drive it.

On two occasions during their relationship, Cook also raped her.

Showing incredible bravery, the woman left him in 2018 and contacted Northamptonshire Police for help.

An investigation was launched and Cook was arrested and charged.

At Northampton Crown Court on March 18, 2022, he was found guilty after a five-day trial of two counts of rape and one count of coercive and controlling behaviour and at Leicester Crown Court last week (May 4), was sentenced to seven years and nine months in prison.

Lead Investigator – DS Dan Spires, said: “First of all, I would like to thank the survivor in this case whose patience and perseverance has helped us to get this case over the finish line and send Jody Cook to prison.

“Speaking to the police is a very intimidating task at the best of times, so to come forward after a 21-year relationship of domestic abuse takes immeasurable courage.

“I hope the woman in this case recognises and is proud of the strength she has shown, and that the conclusion of this case marks the start of a brighter future for her.

“I hope this case also shows just how seriously Northamptonshire Police takes reports of domestic abuse and that we will put our all, not only into bringing the offender to justice, but to safeguarding and supporting the victim.”

Love should lift you up and make you feel safe and happy.

It shouldn't make you feel anxious, fearful and controlled.

If you are suffering in a relationship, please come forward.

You deserve better.

We will believe you.

Call us on 101 or visit us online at www.northants.police.uk/ro.

If you have been a victim of domestic abuse but are not yet ready to speak to the police, please visit www.voicenorthants.org or call Voice on 0300 303 1965.