A teenage girl vividly recounted the horrifying experience of waking up to discover she was being sexually assaulted by a man while his partner restrained her. The 17-year-old had consumed vodka shots with Robert Ellis-Evans, 39, and Sarah Vigus, also known as Parkinson, 38, from Bridgend. Prior communications between the couple suggested an interest in engaging in group activities with the teenager.
Upon realizing the assault, the victim screamed and wept, expressing to Cardiff Crown Court the profound emotional trauma caused by the incident. During a sentencing session, it was revealed that due to intoxication, the victim had lost consciousness and awoke to find Vigus holding her down forcefully.
Confusion turned to horror as the victim discovered Ellis-Evans was sexually assaulting her. Despite claims of consent by the defendants, the victim vehemently denied agreeing to the act. Subsequently, the victim confided in her parents, leading to the arrest of both perpetrators the following day.
After standing trial, Ellis-Evans and Vigus, residents of North Cornelly, were convicted of rape, with Vigus facing an additional charge of assault by penetration. While Ellis-Evans had no prior sexual offense convictions, Vigus was described as having a clean record.
In a poignant statement delivered to the court by prosecutor James Evans, the victim detailed the lasting psychological impact of the assault on her well-being. She expressed feelings of dirtiness, discomfort, and a struggle with self-perception and mental health, including thoughts of self-harm and suicide.
Despite grappling with feelings of guilt and a changed identity, the victim emphasized her determination to rebuild her life and regain a sense of normalcy. The court also heard that while the victim did not want to be labeled a victim, she acknowledged the everlasting consequences of the incident, mourning the loss of her former self.
During mitigation, it was noted that Ellis-Evans had shown remorse and introspection, while Vigus, a mother of two, had made positive lifestyle changes during her time in custody. Sentencing both defendants, Judge Lucy Crowther emphasized the violation of the victim’s physical and emotional integrity, deeming her particularly vulnerable.
Ellis-Evans and Vigus were each handed sentences of eight years and three months, with a requirement to serve two-thirds before potential release on license. Additionally, they were subjected to lifelong sex offender notification obligations and an indefinite restraining order.
In response to the case, DC Jessica Pritchard of South Wales Police commended the victim’s resilience and courage throughout the investigation and court proceedings. She highlighted the challenges victims of sexual offenses face in engaging with law enforcement and praised the victim’s bravery in providing crucial evidence. Pritchard underscored the importance of the victim’s impactful statement during sentencing and expressed hope that the verdict would bring her a measure of solace as she embarked on the journey to rebuild her life.
