Man jailed for rape, Exeter
A man has been jailed for the rape and sexual assault of a woman in Exeter.
Charlie Evans, 22, from Victoria Avenue, Mumbles, Swansea, appeared at Exeter Crown Court for sentence on Friday 12 July after previously being convicted by a jury of rape and sexual assault. He was jailed for six and a half years by Judge Stephen Climie.
During the trial the court heard how former Exeter University student Evans forced himself on the complainant and raped her in a bedroom after they met in a social area. She tried to get Evans to stop during the attack but he continued regardless.
Evans was eventually disturbed by fellow students but continued after they left. The attack stopped after a second disturbance.
The incident was reported to campus staff, who then contacted the police. Evans was asked to leave his accommodation and removed from the university following the allegation. He denied the offence in interview.
DC Michele Hicks from the Major Crime Investigation Team said following the sentence: “I would like to thank the complainant for her strength, remaining engaged throughout the investigation and continuing to do so for the amount of time it has taken for the case to get to court.
“I hope this case reassures the community how seriously the police take reports of sexual violence against women and girls and gives people the courage to come forward in future.”
If you’ve been affected by anything in this news article, support is available via the force website. Alternatively, advice and support is also offered by our partner agencies:
National Rape Crisis Helpline 0808 802 9999
Victim Care Unit (Devon and Cornwall) 01392 475900
Devon and Cornwall Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARC) 0300 3034626
More: www.dc.police.uk/Rape-SexualAssault
The freephone NSPCC helpline 0808 800 5000 is available for anyone to report or seek advice about non-recent abuse. Calls can be made anonymously.