Eghe Egbon, a 54-year-old care worker from Coundon, County Durham, has been sentenced to five years in prison for sexually assaulting a woman who was incapacitated through intoxication. The sentence, handed down at Durham Crown Court earlier this month, also includes an indefinite place on the sex offenders' register and a 10-year restraining order.
Details of the Assault
Durham Constabulary reported that Egbon assaulted the woman at a home while she was lying on a sofa, unable to consent due to her state. The force stated that the victim repeatedly refused his sexual advances, but Egbon disregarded her attempts and took advantage of her vulnerability. He was found guilty of sexual assault by penetration following a trial in April.
Victim Impact Statement
In a statement to the court, the woman described the severe impact of the assault on her life, forcing her to quit her job and rely on family and friends for support. She said she continues to relive the 'torture' of the offence. She stated: “I hope he feels even a tiny bit of how I did and still do to this day...I hope he has listened to everything I have said, the torture I have been through since he did this to me, while he got on with his life. He has been able to go and do whatever he wants, whenever he has wanted to. I have not. He has had a life, I have not. And every time I have tried to get my life back on track, something happens and I can't. He is the one in the wrong, but I feel like I am the one who has been punished for it.” She added: “I hope while he’s behind bars, he feels as isolated as I have since it happened. The only difference is that he is there through a decision he made himself.”
Police Response
Detective Constable Lauren Howe of Durham Constabulary commended the woman's bravery, saying: “Egbon lied throughout the investigation but thankfully a jury saw through him and his ego. I would like to commend the woman for her incredible bravery following this assault. She has shown great fortitude throughout the criminal justice process in being prepared to stand up and give evidence against her attacker. I hope this result brings her the closure she deserves and allows her to move forward with her life.”
