A teenage girl recounted a terrifying experience where she awoke to find herself 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, who had expressed interest in engaging in group sex with the teen in prior messages.
The victim, who was deeply affected by the incident, described how she screamed and cried when she realized what was happening to her. Testifying at Cardiff Crown Court, she detailed the distressing aftermath of the assault on her. During a sentencing session, it was revealed that the victim had passed out or fallen asleep due to intoxication and awoke to find Vigus holding her down forcefully.
Subsequently, the victim discovered Ellis-Evans penetrating her while Vigus tried to justify the assault by claiming consent, which the victim denied. The victim reported the incident to her parents, leading to the arrest of both defendants. After a trial, Ellis-Evans and Vigus, residents of North Cornelly, were convicted of rape, with Vigus also found guilty of assault by penetration.
In an emotional statement read in court, the victim expressed the profound impact the assault had on her mental health, causing struggles with self-care and feelings of dirtiness. She also shared the challenges she faced during the legal process and the lasting effects on her relationships and well-being.
During the trial, the victim emphasized that she did not wish to be viewed solely as a victim, acknowledging the lasting impact the incident had on her identity and life. Both Ellis-Evans and Vigus received sentences of eight years and three months each, with requirements for sex offender notification and a lifelong restraining order.
Following the sentencing, DC Jessica Pritchard of South Wales Police commended the victim for her resilience and courage throughout the investigation and court proceedings. She highlighted the difficulty victims of sexual offenses face in engaging with the legal process and praised the victim’s bravery in speaking out against the defendants’ actions.