DAVID VOYLE FROM WEST BELFAST SENTENCED FOR MULTIPLE SEXUAL OFFENCES IN LAGANSIDE COURT

A 46-year-old man identified as David Voyle, hailing from West Belfast, has been formally sentenced at Laganside Crown Court on Friday, 11 April 2025, following his conviction for a series of serious sexual offences committed in June 2024. The charges against Voyle encompass a range of heinous acts, including rape, sexual assault by penetration, general sexual assault, and common assault. The court's decision resulted in Voyle receiving a prison term of eight years. Of this sentence, four years will be served in custody, while the remaining four years will be on licence, subject to supervision and conditions designed to prevent further offending.

In addition to the custodial sentence, the court also imposed a Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO) on Voyle. This order aims to restrict his activities and interactions to protect the public from potential future harm, particularly focusing on preventing any contact with vulnerable individuals or reoffending in similar ways.

Detective Sergeant Nick Harris provided a statement regarding the case, highlighting the circumstances surrounding the incident. He explained that Voyle had pretended to come to the aid of a teenage girl by calling a taxi to help her get home. However, this act was a betrayal of her trust, executed in the most cruel and manipulative manner imaginable. Harris emphasized the bravery of the young victim, noting her resilience in seeing the investigation through to its conclusion. He expressed hope that her determination to seek justice would serve as an encouragement to others who have suffered sexual abuse to come forward and report their experiences to the police.

Law enforcement officials reaffirm their commitment to thoroughly investigating all reports of sexual offences. They stress that victims will be treated with the utmost respect and sensitivity throughout the process. Authorities urge anyone who has experienced similar abuse or has relevant information to contact the police either through the non-emergency line at 101 or in emergency situations by dialing 999. The police continue to prioritize the safety of the community and hold offenders accountable for their actions.