During a trial at Gloucester Crown Court, it was revealed that James Holder, the co-founder of Superdry, allegedly refused to return home in a taxi after a night of drinking. The incident occurred after a night out in Cheltenham, where a taxi was arranged to take Holder and a friend back to his residence in the Cotswolds.
Instead of going home, Holder and his friend reportedly exited the initial taxi and entered the taxi of a woman who later accused him of rape at her home. While it was acknowledged that there was sexual activity between Holder and the woman, the businessman claims it was consensual.
Witnesses at the trial, held in Cirencester, testified about the events of the evening on May 6, 2022, in Cheltenham. One witness mentioned arranging taxis for both Holder and the complainant, ensuring they were taken home safely.
After the incident, the witness attempted to contact the complainant, who had been with Holder, to ensure her safety. The following day, another friend of the complainant expressed concern and accompanied her to her residence, where details of the alleged incident were disclosed.
The woman revealed that the complainant and Holder engaged in kissing, which then led to unwanted sexual intercourse. The complainant expressed discomfort with the situation and stated that Holder left around 4 am.
The trial also heard that the complainant contacted emergency services seeking advice after mentioning the word “rape.” Holder, from Cheltenham, denies the allegations of rape and assault by penetration, and the trial is ongoing.
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