Survivors brave testimony leads to 14 year sentence

A 20 year old woman recounted the profound impact a brutal rape in Southampton had on her life. Her attacker, 28 year old Rosario Raquel Dos Reis from St. Mary Street in Southampton, was sentenced to 14 years and four months in prison.

The incident, which occurred on Sunday, 19 February, at approximately 7am, in Palmerston Park when a passer-by discovered Dos Reis attacking the young woman in a bush. In her testimony, the victim spoke about her struggles since the incident, saying, “What he has done to me has destroyed my family and I. My family live a five minute walk from me but I feel like I can no longer walk there on my own, which is something I would always do before. I no longer feel safe walking alone.”

Prompted by the victim’s cry for help, the assailant fled the scene, and vigilant CCTV operators traced him to a National Express coach station, leading to his arrest.

Dos Reis faced charges of rape, two counts of assault by penetration, sexual assault, and attempted rape. During the trial, on the second day, he entered a guilty plea to the charge of rape. For this heinous crime, he has been sentenced to 14 years and four months, with six of those years on licence. The remaining charges of assault by penetration, sexual assault, and attempted rape were placed on file.

Detective Inspector Claire Shawley, head of Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary’s specialist rape unit Operation Amberstone, praised the victim’s courage for reporting the crime and cooperating throughout the investigation. She stated, “We have all heard in court today the lasting effects that this sickening crime will have on its victim, the likes of which the majority of us will never be able to comprehend.”

Detective Constable Laura Cook, who led the investigation, acknowledged the victim’s bravery in facing the ordeal, which allowed the police to swiftly apprehend Dos Reis. She also expressed gratitude towards the member of the public who intervened on the day of the incident.

Southampton Superintendent Phil Lamb emphasised the commitment of the police to supporting survivors of rape and sexual assault. He reassured residents that officers regularly patrol the city centre and surrounding parks, and investments have been made to enhance safety for women. This includes specialised training for officers to identify predatory behaviour, the use of all-terrain quad bikes for park patrols after dark, and an expanded CCTV network.

He encouraged victims to report such crimes promptly, emphasising the importance of seeking help, even if they are not ready to talk to the police immediately.

In conclusion, the sentencing of Rosario Raquel Dos Reis serves as a testament to the courage of survivors and the dedication of the police to combat sexual violence in Southampton. The community stands united in providing support and resources to victims, ensuring that the city remains a safe place to live, work, and visit.

If you’ve been a victim, please report rape or sexual assault as soon as possible. Even if you’re not 100 per cent sure, the police would sooner hear from you so that they can make sure you’re safe and discuss options. If you’re not ready to talk to the police just yet, that’s OK. There are a range of places to get support, advice and medical help.

You can speak to a number of organisations in confidence and what you tell them won’t be shared with the police unless you ask for it to be – https://www.hampshire.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/rsa/rape-and-sexual-assault/support-for-victims-of-rape-and-sexual-assault/.

Based in Southampton, Yellow Door offers free and accessible support to anyone who has experienced domestic abuse and/or sexual abuse. For more information please visit: www.yellowdoor.org.uk
Alternatively, you can call 023 8063 6312.

SOnews.uk