James Holder, 54, co-founder of Superdry, has been found guilty of raping a woman at her Cheltenham flat following a night out, Gloucester Crown Court has ruled.
The incident took place in May 2022 after Holder and a male friend shared a taxi with the victim. Holder denies the charge but was convicted after a jury trial.
Victim's Account
The woman was reportedly intoxicated and pleaded with Holder to stop during the assault. Prosecutor James Haskell told the court that the victim’s vulnerability was critical, noting her repeated requests amid tears as Holder continued the assault.
While sexual contact was undisputed, Holder claimed it was consensual.
Holder's Defence
In a recorded police interview, Holder described himself as “old-school and chivalrous,” stating that he had looked after the woman throughout the evening. When asked if he was used to getting his own way, Holder denied this.
He also said he left the flat soon after the incident because he had been out longer than planned, leaving the victim asleep.
Court Deliberations
During cross-examination, defence barrister Michelle Heeley KC suggested the encounter was “a drunken sexual encounter that you regret,” but the victim denied this unequivocally.
Holder faced charges of rape and assault by penetration related to the night out in Cheltenham.
Sentencing Awaits
Following the guilty verdict, Holder was remanded in custody ahead of sentencing.
Originally published by UKNIP.
