RAVI CANHYE AND SHOCKING SEXUAL OFFENSES IN POOLE, DORSET

A police officer with a disturbing history of predatory behavior has been sentenced to over 16 years in prison after being found guilty of multiple serious sexual offenses. PC Ravi Canhye, who was employed by Dorset Police, was convicted on two counts of rape, one count of attempted rape, and three charges of assault by penetration. Additionally, he faced charges related to sexual assault against a second woman.

The case was heard at Winchester Crown Court, where it was revealed that the 47-year-old officer, originally from Mauritius, committed heinous acts against a woman during a visit to his home in Poole, Dorset. The court heard that Canhye, who was off duty at the time, subjected the first victim to a brutal assault that involved slapping and mauling her before forcibly pinning her down and raping her. The prosecution described how he verbally abused her throughout the attack, and at one point, he forcibly inserted his fist into her mouth to silence her pleas for him to stop. It was noted in court that Canhye derived a sense of power and gratification from these acts, taking pleasure in her disgust, discomfort, and disappointment.

The assault occurred during the weekend between April 8 and 11, 2022, when the victim visited his residence. The relationship between Canhye and the victim began in October 2021, with the officer claiming that they had mutual feelings for each other from the outset and engaging in consensual sex on the first night. However, the following morning marked a stark change in his behavior. Prosecutor Sarah Jones KC explained that Canhye's conduct shifted dramatically, and he assaulted the woman again in his kitchen before raping her. The court heard that his actions appeared to be fueled by heavy drinking, which disinhibited him and caused him to behave in a manner described as animalistic.

During the trial, it was revealed that Canhye threatened to use his police truncheon and a vodka bottle to intimidate his victim. Despite denying the allegations, he insisted that the sexual encounters were consensual. Prosecutor Jones emphasized that Canhye acted solely based on his own desires, viewing both the woman and her friend as objects to be used and abused. She described how his escalating roughness and infliction of pain seemed to excite him further, with the victim recounting that his behavior was akin to that of an animal, which seemed to encourage him.

The victim, who struggled to maintain her composure while giving evidence, expressed her feelings of betrayal and fear. She stated that she trusted Canhye because he was a police officer, which made her feel especially vulnerable. In her victim impact statement, read aloud in court, she detailed suffering from anxiety, nightmares, and flashbacks following the assault. She described being battered and bruised, with injuries so severe that her intimate areas turned black due to the manhandling. The trauma led her to isolate herself from friends and even contemplate suicide. She described the experience as an almost unbearable indignity.

Judge Jane Miller addressed the court, highlighting the profound suffering endured by the victim. She described the incident as a persistent, degrading, and overwhelming episode of sexual and physical humiliation. The judge also pointed out that Canhye’s status as a serving police officer was an aggravating factor, as it eroded the trust placed in law enforcement personnel. She emphasized that the public expects higher standards from police officers and that such breaches of trust are particularly egregious.

Following his conviction, Canhye was placed on the sex offenders register and subjected to a sexual harm prevention order, which requires him to notify police of any future sexual relationships. A restraining order was also issued against him to prevent any contact with the victims.

The second victim, who was present during the incident the day after the first assault, recounted her shock upon discovering Canhye’s profession. She explained that she was frightened to leave her home after witnessing his behavior, feeling betrayed that someone in uniform could abuse their position of trust. The second assault occurred when she was sitting on his sofa, and she expressed her disbelief that a police officer could behave in such a manner.

Dorset Police confirmed that Canhye, who had served in public service for over 20 years, was suspended following the allegations and is now facing misconduct proceedings. His career history includes moving from Mauritius to work in psychiatric health before becoming a special police officer. He joined the Metropolitan Police in 2009 and later transferred to Dorset Police. Notably, he received a National Policing Award in 2009 as a special Constable in Ealing, West London, for his work in identifying individuals with mental health issues.

Defense lawyer James Newton-Price stated that Canhye had resigned from the police force, describing the outcome as devastating for his reputation and career. He attributed the offending behavior to heavy alcohol consumption, suggesting that it was a significant factor in his actions.

Dorset Police’s Temporary Deputy Chief Constable Rachel Farrell expressed her gratitude to the victims for their bravery in coming forward and supporting the investigation. She reaffirmed the force’s commitment to investigating all allegations of sexual misconduct and ensuring offenders are held accountable. Farrell emphasized that the police force is dedicated to maintaining high standards and that there is no place within Dorset Police for individuals who commit such crimes. She acknowledged the community’s concern over these incidents, especially given the offender’s role as a police officer, and assured the public that the force is actively working to root out misconduct, domestic abuse, and discriminatory behaviors among its ranks.

Farrell concluded by stating that robust responses to allegations of violence against women by police officers or staff are essential to uphold public confidence and demonstrate the force’s commitment to integrity and accountability.