Man found guilty of rape on vulnerable victim

A man who raped and sexually assaulted a woman has been found guilty by a jury.

David Pacera, 42, of no fixed address, has been convicted of four sexual offences after his victim recorded the attack on her phone.

On 3 January, a woman disclosed she had been raped and sexually assaulted by Pacera at a property in Worthing. He was arrested that day.

The victim, who has lifelong anonymity, was safeguarded and supported by specialist officers while an investigation was swiftly launched.

The court heard a 90-minute audio recording, which the victim recorded during the incident on 3 January, showing her saying ‘no’ on multiple occasions.

Following a five-day trial at Chichester Crown Court, Pacera was found guilty on Friday, 28 June of rape, attempted rape, digital penetration and sexual assault.

He is due to be sentenced on Friday, 5 July at Hove Crown Court.

Detective Police Constable Ellie Treagust said: “This was a monstrous attack on a vulnerable victim.

“She reported the assault immediately and, despite the brutality of what she suffered, had the presence of mind to capture evidence at the time.

“I would like to thank the victim for having the courage and determination to see this investigation through, and appear in court for the trial. Her bravery has helped make Sussex a safer place for everyone.”

If you are a victim of sexual offending, please report it to police online or via 101. Always dial 999 in an emergency. You will be believed, you will be supported and we will do everything we can to get you justice.