Rape accused put pillow over woman's face, court told

Tuesday 10 January 2023

A 28-year-old man accused of raping a woman multiple times allegedly put a pillow over her face on one occasion, leaving her unable to breathe, the Royal Court has been told.

The Royal Court trial of David Sullivan, who denies four counts of rape, opened on Monday.

Giving evidence during the first day of a trial expected to last five days, the alleged victim said that Mr Sullivan was "obsessed" with her.

Opening the case, Crown Advocate Simon Thomas said that the defendant and the woman met online before meeting in person. The woman said that Mr Sullivan originally told her he was in his 30s.

Advocate Thomas told the court: "They began having consensual sex but then the defendant became rough."

Advocate Thomas said that Mr Sullivan asked for sex but the woman said no. Despite this, Mr Sullivan started having sex with her, continuing for a "number of minutes" until he was ejaculated, according to Advocate Thomas.

He said that the alleged rape left her crying and in pain.

The court also heard that Mr Sullivan raped her on three other occasions.

On one occasion, it was claimed that the defendant put a pillow over her face so she could not breathe. Advocate Thomas said the alleged victim felt "trapped".

The woman told members of her family and Police were called on her behalf.

She also visited the Sexual Assault Referral Centre where she was examined for injuries and eventually underwent a police interview.

Advocate Sarah Dale was defending. Commissioner Sir John Saunders was presiding.

The trial continues today.