Suffolk man jailed for rape and assault

Abdulay Espirito Santo was sentenced at Ipswich Crown Court.

Abdulay Espirito Santo
Author: Shaunna BurnsPublished 22nd Jul 2024

A man from Ipswich has been jailed after being found guilty of rape and actual bodily harm.

Abdulay Espirito Santo of Rendlesham Road in Ipswich was sentenced at Ipswich Crown Court on Friday 19 July to eight years in prison.

The incident took place on 4 September 2021 at his home address after a night out. After the incident the victim attended her friend’s house with injuries to the face and throat. Later the same day he was arrested and subsequently charged for the offences.

34 year old Espirito Santo was found guilty of rape and actual bodily harm.

DC Chloe Bilner, investigating officer, said: “The victim made it very clear to Espirito Santo that she did not want sex because he didn’t have a condom. Despite her clear protestations, he forced himself on her, pulling her hair and grabbing her throat so hard that she was unable to speak properly for a few days.

“It would have been very traumatic for the victim to have given evidence during the trial so I thank the victim for her courage, patience, although what did Espirito Santo will understandably never leave her.”

The victim also received support from an independent sexual violence advisor who supported her throughout the investigation.

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