Man raped victim at knifepoint in two-hour attack

Kurtis Harper told his victim he did not know whether to leave him dead or alive during the two-hour sex attack

A burglar will serve more than 11 years in prison after raping a stranger in his own home at knifepoint during a "horrifying attack".

Kurtis Harper woke his victim by standing over him while brandishing a knife and told the man he did not know whether to leave him dead or alive during the two-hour attack in Hopton-on-Sea in Norfolk on 14 December.

The 31-year-old, of Ordnance Road, Great Yarmouth, was sentenced at Norwich Crown Court on Friday to a life term - and must serve a minimum of 11 years and 109 days.

He had admitted possessing a knife, but denied two counts of rape, sexual assault and aggravated burglary, before being found guilty at a trial in June.

After the attack, Harper fled, taking the bedsheets, jewellery, two knives and money for a bus home, Norfolk Police said.

The man immediately called the police and Harper was later spotted by officers walking back towards Great Yarmouth with items stolen from the house, and he was arrested, the force added.

Investigating officer Det Con Matthew Hubbard said: "This was a horrifying attack carried out at knifepoint in the victim's own home by a man he did not know.

"The victim has shown immense bravery throughout the investigation and this has resulted in a dangerous offender being brought to justice.

"I would like to personally thank the victim and his family for their unwavering courage throughout the legal process."

He added that he hoped the sentence would provide "some measure of justice and reassurance".

A forfeiture and destruction order was also made for the knife as part of Harper's sentence.