Whitchurch Hill man sentenced to 28 years for rape and blackmail
Serial rapist found guilty after three-week trial
Last updated 1st Jun 2026
Jonathan Goldsmith, aged 52, from Hatch Gate, Whitchurch Hill near Reading, has been sentenced to 28 years in prison, including four years on licence, for multiple rape convictions and blackmail.
Goldsmith was sentenced at Reading Crown Court on Friday, 15th May, following his conviction on seven counts of rape and one count of blackmail after a three-week trial.
Details of the Crimes
In 2002, Goldsmith raped a woman in her late teens in a parked car in London, threatening her with a knife.
Between 2005 and 2019, he repeatedly raped another woman, met in Oxford, alongside physical violence, and documented the abuse, using the material for blackmail to silence her.
In 2014, Goldsmith raped a woman in her twenties, whom he met on a dating site, leaving her injured.
Goldsmith was arrested for his crimes on three occasions: 11th August 2002, 6th December 2014, and 14th April 2021, before charges were laid on 29th January 2026.
Investigation and Support
Detective Sergeant Rachel Belsher, who led the investigation, commended the victims for their bravery, saying, “Jonathan Goldsmith is a serial rapist and has finally been held to account for his crimes."
She assured the public of Thames Valley Police's commitment to investigating violence against women and girls, encouraging victims to come forward.
Specially trained officers are available to listen and support those affected.
Belsher also acknowledged the efforts of CPS Paralegal Mandy Dutton-Webb and prosecution counsel Kim Preston and Adam Williams for their expertise in securing the conviction.
Further information on reporting rape, sexual assault, and other sexual offences is available on the Thames Valley Police website.