Ipswich man jailed for eight years

A man from Ipswich has been jailed after a five day trial.

Abdulay Espirito Santo of Rendlesham Road in Ipswich was sentenced at Ipswich Crown Court on Friday 19 July to eight years in jail after being found guilty by a jury.

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

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.

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,legal process and court case.

To report rape, sexual assault and other sexual offences please visit: https://www.suffolk.police.uk/ro/report/rsa/alpha-v1/v1/rape-sexual-assault-other-sexual-offences/

Suffolk also has a dedicated Sexual Assault Referral Centre and a team of specialist ISVA’s (independent sexual violence advisors) who support any victims who come forward to report rape or serious sexual offences, either to police or directly to the SARC. For more information, visit https://theferns-suffolk.org.uk/