In a powerful statement read out in Southampton Crown Court on Thursday, September 21, a brave 20-year-old woman recounted the profound impact that a rape incident in Southampton has had on her life. Her courage and determination to seek justice came to fruition as Rosario Raquel Dos Reis was sentenced to 14 years and four months.
The court learned that on February 19, at around 7 am, police were summoned to Palmerston Park following a report of a rape. A passerby had been walking through the park and witnessed a man assaulting the woman in a bush. Distressed and seeking help, the woman called out to the Good Samaritan, causing the assailant to flee the scene. Quick-thinking CCTV operators in the city managed to trace the man to a National Express coach station, where he was subsequently arrested.
Dos Reis, 28, residing on St. Mary Street in Southampton, faced multiple charges, including rape, two counts of assault by penetration, sexual assault, and attempted rape. He was detained in custody until his trial commenced on July 17. On the second day of the trial, Reis entered a guilty plea to the charge of rape. He has now been sentenced to 14 years and four months, with six of those years on license. The other charges of assault by penetration, sexual assault, and attempted rape will lie on file.
The victim shared her emotional Victim Impact Statement in which she expressed the profound consequences of the crime on her life: “What he has done to me has destroyed my family and me. My family lives 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.”
Detective Inspector Claire Shawley, who oversees Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary’s specialist rape unit Operation Amberstone, commended the victim’s bravery in reporting the incident and providing essential cooperation during the investigation. She stated that the impact of such a heinous crime is unimaginable for most, emphasising their commitment to justice for victims.
Detective Constable Laura Cook, who led the investigation, acknowledged the victim’s courage and the vital role of a member of the public who intervened on the day of the incident, staying with the victim until the police arrived. The prompt reporting allowed the authorities to take swift action and remove a dangerous individual from the streets of Southampton.
Southampton Superintendent Phil Lamb reassured residents that the police are committed to supporting survivors of rape and sexual assault. He highlighted the substantial investment in resources and training, aimed at preventing violence against women and girls in Southampton, and encouraged the public to report any suspicious or predatory behavior towards women. Southampton remains dedicated to being a safe place to live, work, and visit, with collaborative efforts from various agencies and partners working toward this shared goal.
