A RAPIST who committed his crime after a barbecue at a South Cerney army base has been jailed for seven years.

Army serviceman Serupepeli Niubusaga, 41, was found guilty of one count of sexual assault and one count of rape after a week-long trial at Bristol Crown Court.

The court heard how the victim had been attending a barbecue at the army regiment in South Cerney on the evening of Saturday, May 26, 2018 which Niubusaga also attended.

Later that evening the woman went home and found Niubusaga there. She recognised him from the barbecue earlier in the evening.

The court heard how they sat on the sofa and talked before he sexually assaulted and raped her.

At a retrial on Monday, July 6, the jury delivered a guilty majority verdict just after 4pm and Niubusaga, of Aaron Road, South Cerney, was sentenced minutes later to seven years in prison and life on the sex offenders register.

The first trial on October 29 last year resulted in a hung jury.

The victim said: "I was pleased with the sentencing. To know that all of the hard work that was put in was worth it - it was a relief. So I was really pleased.

"I cannot thank the police enough. My officer Simone Bowley was just amazing. I don’t think I could have got through it without her. She was the most comforting; she was honest and up-front with me throughout.

"I was always able to contact her even if it wasn’t anything especially important, if I was just feeling a bit worried or upset. I just can’t thank her enough for everything that she did.

"Throughout the court process the witness care unit were really fantastic. They were just an amazing service to be on hand and to just make sure we were looked after."

Detective constable Simone Bowley led the case for Gloucestershire Police's Rape and Serious Sexual Offences Team.

He said: "The victim showed tremendous courage not only in reporting the offence but having the strength to give evidence for a second time.

"Her bravery is to be commended and I hope that reading her victim personal statement to the court let those see the detrimental effect this offence has had on her and gave her the closure she deserves.

"The sentencing reflects the serious nature of the crime committed and I hope that this positive outcome will encourage others to report, knowing that they will be taken seriously and be provided with the resources to support them and get them through what is a difficult and lengthy process."

If you have been a victim of rape or a sexual assault, no matter how recent, please report this to police by calling 101. In the case of an emergency, call 999.

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