TOTTENHAM MAN JAILED FOR HISTORIC RAPE NEAR BRISTOL
A woman who survived a rape spoke to her attacker after he was sentenced to seven and a half years in prison, telling him that she was deeply traumatized by his 'terrifying' assault.She reassured him that 'justice has been served,' and expressed optimism about her future, stating she would not let him affect her any longer and that he would have to live with his actions for the rest of his life.
The sentence was handed down to 38-year-old Edward Rogers from Elm Park Avenue in Tottenham, convicted by a jury of an historic sexual assault that took place near Bristol.
Trial judge William Hart explained that although Rogers maintained his denial, he lacked any remorse, which did not worsen his case.
The court revealed that the incident happened in a flat near Bristol, where Rogers engaged in unconsensual sex with the survivor while she was on a bed, initially unaware she was being assaulted, as she described herself as 'tipsy.' She admitted that her drinks might have been spiked or that she might have experienced an unexplained medical event, but emphasized that the experience was 'the most terrifying and harrowing of her life.' She also shared that reliving the trauma during the trial severely affected her mental and physical health.
Addressing Rogers directly, she told him that his punishment was a form of karma for his crime and the harm he caused, adding that he must learn from the experience rather than wasting his time.
She concluded her statement by asserting that women are not objects to be exploited and reaffirmed that her life is now set on an upwards path, unaffected by his actions, and that he must choose a moral course now, with responsibility for his own path.
Her lawyer, Giles Nelson, noted that Rogers was a promising student in the USA before running into trouble with drugs that led to youth detention.
Nelson also stated that Rogers moved to the UK in 2013, worked in the music industry, and showed notable talent.
The case faced delays due to industrial actions by barristers and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Since the offense, Rogers has become a father and remains committed to a hardworking lifestyle.
