Care worker jailed for 21 years after admitting rapes and recordings

A care assistant pleaded guilty to multiple counts of rape and making indecent images and was sentenced to 21 years; police said their investigation remains ongoing.

Joshua Springer, a 36-year-old care assistant, was sentenced to 21 years in prison after pleading guilty to multiple counts of rape and to making indecent images. The case was heard at Lincoln Crown Court and involved victims described as vulnerable. Prosecutors reported that evidence was recovered from his phones and that his mother alerted police after he made admissions to her. Authorities said the investigation into the matter is continuing. Known details: - Springer pleaded guilty to nine counts of rape and three counts of making indecent images of children. - The court imposed a 21-year custodial sentence and ordered lifetime registration as a sex offender, a lifelong sexual harm prevention order, and an extended licence period. - Three victims were reported to be elderly residents of a Lincolnshire care home where he worked; a fourth was a younger person living elsewhere. - Evidence cited in court included DNA links, material recovered from electronic devices, and a family report of admissions to police. - Police announced their investigations remain open and said they had appealed for anyone who believes they may have been affected to contact them. Summary: The sentencing reflects the court's finding of serious breaches of trust against vulnerable people and includes long-term supervision measures. Police stated their investigation continues and reported they are seeking any additional information related to the case.