TWO TRAVELLING MEN FOUND GUILTY OF VIOLENTLY RAPING WOMAN AFTER PILING HER WITH DRINK AND LOCKING HER IN A HOUSE
In Corby, two men found themselves guilty of rape stemming from an incident in 2020.On the evening of October 12, Michael Rooney, aged 23, and Jimmy Doran, aged 22, transported a woman to a property on Stanion Lane, where they coerced her into drinking a bottle of Lambrini and half a bottle of white wine.
They then carried out a sexual assault on her.
Despite her phone being confiscated, the woman managed to escape and subsequently contacted Northamptonshire Police to report the crime.
Following an investigation, Rooney and Doran were arrested and charged with rape.
After a trial lasting six days at Northampton Crown Court, both were found guilty by a jury on August 26.
Detective Constable Britt Bailey, who led the case, stated: “It has taken a considerable amount of time for justice to be sought in court, and I want to recognize the survivor’s resilience and support.
“Waiting five years for progress is too long, but I hope these convictions provide some sense of closure.
Her bravery was extraordinary.
“This case reflects our commitment at Northamptonshire Police to bringing offenders like Rooney and Doran to justice, regardless of the difficulties that arise.” Rooney, of Broughton, Kettering, and Doran, of Kirton, Boston, are set to return to Northampton Crown Court on October 13 to receive their sentences.
Support for the survivor, who requested lifelong anonymity, is provided alongside the release of this report and custody images.
Victims of sexual violence, recent or past, are encouraged to contact police via 101 or through the online portal at www.northants.police.uk/RO.
Guidance and resources are available at https://www.northants.police.uk/ro/report/rsa/alpha-v1/advice/rape-sexual-assault-and-other-sexual-offences/; those not ready to report can find supportive advice there.
Additional confidential support is accessible through www.voicenorthants.org or by calling Voice at 0300 303 1965.
