A man who subjected a woman to repeated sexual and physical assaults in Weymouth has been jailed for 19 years.
Reece Vella, 32 and of Weymouth, was sentenced on Monday 25 November 2024 at Bournemouth Crown Court. He pleaded guilty to intentional strangulation and assault and was also subsequently found guilty following a trial of a further count of intentional strangulation and assault, as well as four counts of rape and one count of making threats to kill.
Vella was sentenced to 19 years in prison and will be the subject of an extended licence period for a further six years.
The investigation began on Wednesday 15 November 2023 after the victim contacted police to report that she had been repeatedly assaulted by a man who was known to her.
On Monday 28 August 2023, the defendant put the victim into a choke hold, causing her to not be able to breathe.
A few months later on Tuesday 14 November 2023, Vella let himself into the victim’s home and locked the doors, before taking her phone and keys.
Vella armed himself with a kitchen knife and assaulted the victim by punching her in the face.
Over a 20-hour period, he further subjected the victim to numerous rapes and assaults, causing swelling and bruising to her face.
He subsequently left the property the following day and told the victim not to leave the address due to the facial injuries she had sustained and made threats to kill her if she called the police.
The victim bravely contacted the police and Vella was subsequently arrested.
Detective Sergeant Kim Williams, of Dorset County CID, said: “The victim in this case showed immense strength and courage in coming forward and reporting what happened to her and in giving evidence in the trial against the perpetrator.
“I am pleased that Reece Vella is now behind bars and facing the consequences of his abusive and unacceptable behaviour.
“Tackling violence against women and girls is a key Force priority and we are committed to supporting victims and ensuring robust action is taken against perpetrators.”
Chief Superintendent Julie Howe, of Dorset County Local Policing Area, said: “This case demonstrates our commitment to relentlessly pursuing anyone who causes harm to women and girls in our communities.
“We are supporting White Ribbon Day and the 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence and want to send out a message that help is available for anyone who has been subjected to abuse committed by perpetrators such as Vella.
“We want all members of our communities to feel safe and know that nobody should live in fear – we are here to support you.”
