Locations
Whiteley Lane, Whiteley, Fareham, Hampshire, PO15
Description
A WOMAN woke up to a man raping her in his home.
The victim was left "hugely impacted" after Philip Lush assaulted her while she slept.
The court was told that the woman had been out with the 28-year-old that evening before returning to his to watch a film.
She fell asleep and was was woken up by Lush raping her.
Lush, of Whiteley Lane, Titchfield, denied the offence but following a seven-day trial, he was found guilty by a jury on November 22 last year.
Appearing at Portsmouth Crown Court yesterday, Lush was jailed for five years and placed on the Sex Offenders Register for life.
Police staff investigator Lynn Levett said: “The woman was asleep when Lush raped her for his own self-gratification.
"His actions showed a total disregard for the woman and this incident has understandably had a huge impact on her.
“I would like to commend the woman for her bravery in telling us what happened and for the strength she showed throughout the investigation and the trial to bring Lush to justice.
“We take all reports of sexual assault seriously and do everything in our power to bring offenders to justice.
“We know it’s difficult to report incidents of this nature but we encourage anyone who has or thinks they have been a victim of sexual abuse to contact us on 101. "We have specially trained officers who you can speak to in complete confidence and they will support you throughout the criminal justice process.
“Alternatively, we know not everyone feels comfortable talking to the police so we want you to know that there are a number of independent support agencies out there who will provide you with the help you need.”