A deeply distressing case unfolded recently at Cardiff Crown Court, where Justin Saliba, 50, was found guilty of raping a woman and then shockingly claiming she had “dreamt” the entire assault. The incident, described by the judge as “grotesque,” took place in 2021 at Saliba’s flat in Cardiff.
The victim, vulnerable after consuming alcohol, cannabis, and her prescription medication, woke up to the horror of being assaulted by Saliba, who had previously been convicted for other offences but none of a sexual nature. After managing to escape the room when her phone rang, she bravely reported the crime, leading to Saliba’s arrest.
Despite denying the allegations and insisting it was all a misunderstanding on the woman’s part, Saliba was convicted of both rape and sexual assault. The judge emphasised the irreversible damage inflicted on the victim and sentenced Saliba to 11 years in prison. He will serve two-thirds of his sentence in custody before being released on licence and will remain a registered sex offender for life.
For anyone affected by similar issues, support is available. Organisations such as Lifecentre, NAPAC, One in Four, Safeline, The Survivors Trust, and Rape Crisis England & Wales offer help and counselling services to survivors of sexual violence. Remember, you’re not alone, and reaching out can be the first step towards healing.