Victim praised as man found guilty of serious sexual assault following trial
Gloucestershire Police has praised the woman.
A survivor of violent sexual assault has been given praise for her bravery in speaking out and finding justice.
On Friday, 25 year-old Matthew Dickens of Greet Road, Winchcombe, was found guilty at Gloucester Crown Court for attacking the same woman twice in 2020.
Gloucestershire Police has praised the woman for supporting the case and putting herself through the trial process.
Detective Constable Rob Brown, officer-in-charge of the case, said: "Dickens subjected the victim to a terrifying ordeal that will deeply impact her for the rest of her life.
"He then compounded his crimes by pleading not guilty and claiming this was a consensual act, meaning the victim had to go through the trial process.
"I want to commend her bravery and determination to carry on supporting the case when it would have been understandable if she had decided not to put herself through it.
"Thankfully it took the jury less than two hours to decide on his guilt and I hope that provides some level of validation for her courage.
"In the process a dangerous individual has now been convicted at court and, potentially, prevented from wrecking other people’s lives.
"My message to anyone else who is a rape victim who is worried about coming forward is that you will be believed and that the criminal justice system is beginning to change, so please do report what has happened to you. We are transforming the way that the CPS and police handle rape and sexual assault cases, and are working together to ensure that victims are supported throughout the prosecution process."
Dickens will be sentenced at a later date.