TEEN GIRL SEXUALLY ASSAULTED BY COUPLE AFTER DRUNKEN NIGHT
A man named Robert Ellis-Evans, aged 39, was convicted of raping a 17-year-old girl after she had spent the night drinking alcohol.The girl woke up to find herself being raped by Ellis-Evans while his partner, Sarah Vigus, held her down.
She screamed upon realising what was happening and has spoken about the traumatic impact it has had on her.
Ellis-Evans and Vigus, aged 38, both of Heol Degwm, North Cornelly, engaged in the assault after the victim passed out due to alcohol intoxication.
Both defendants had previously expressed sexual interest in the victim, including messages about group sex.
During the trial at Cardiff Crown Court, it was revealed that the victim was intoxicated and passed out or fell asleep.
When she awoke, she found Vigus hovering over her with a hold on her waist, while Ellis-Evans held her legs apart and was penetrating her.
She later reported the incident to her parents, prompting police investigation.
Both offenders denied the rape allegations but Vigus admitted to penetrating the victim with her fingers, claiming consent, which was disputed.
The court sentenced Ellis-Evans to eight years and three months in prison, with release on licence after serving two-thirds of the term.
Vigus received a similar sentence.
Both were made subject to life-long sex offender notification requirements and an indefinite restraining order.
The victim gave a distressing personal statement about the lasting psychological effects of the incident, describing her struggles with mental health, feelings of dirtiness, self-harm thoughts, and difficulty in rebuilding her life.
Authorities highlighted her courage in giving evidence, and sentencing judge Lucy Crowther emphasized the severity of the crime, especially considering the victim’s vulnerability.
Police officers also commended her resilience throughout the process.
