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A 28-year-old man has been found guilty of three counts of rape against a woman he met online following a five-day trial in the Royal Court.
David Andrew Sullivan was found guilty by a unanimous jury after four hours and 49 minutes of deliberation.
Sullivan was originally charged with four counts of rape in 2021, but the fourth charge returned a not guilty verdict, following legal direction from Commissioner Sir John Saunders, presiding, after the prosecution decided to give no evidence relating to it.
Giving evidence during the course of the trial, Sullivan's victim said that on one occasion he had put a pillow over her face, leaving her feeling "trapped".
She also alleged that he had "carved" her using a piercing needle, which Crown Advocate Simon Thomas had been done to "assert control" over her.
He had also watched her from a tree outside her home, and threatened to harm her family.
Examinations revealed multiple injuries which were consistent with being raped.
Police said this afternoon that the victim had shown "an immense amount of courage" and confirmed that she was being supported by specially trained officers.
Detective Constable Jo Le Maistre said: "We are committed to investigating and prosecuting all domestic violence perpetrators and want to assure victims that they will be listened to and believed. There are a number of agencies who offer support and guidance to those who have been victims to domestic abuse.
"We continue to work alongside partners, especially support and advocacy services such as the SARC, JAAR and the Jersey Women's Refuge, to encourage victims of sexual crime to report such incidents."
Sullivan was remanded in custody until 20 January when a sentencing date will be set.
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SARC at Dewberry House provides expert independent and confidential support to victims of sexual abuse. Tel: 01534 888222.
Jersey Action Against Rape (JAAR) provide and maintain a supporting framework for survivors and their families. Confidential helpline: 01534 482800.
Jersey Women’s Refuge offer help and support for victims of domestic abuse. Tel: 0800 7356836.
Victim Support offer free and confidential advice to victims of crime. Tel: 01534 440496.
Victims First Jersey is a free and independent service offering confidential support to victims and witnesses of crime. Tel: 0800 7351612.
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