Reece Vella, the Weymouth Rapist, who perpetrated multiple sexual and physical crimes against a lady in Weymouth, has been sentenced to 19 years in prison. Reece Vella, 32, of Weymouth, was sentenced on Monday, November 25, 2024, at Bournemouth Crown Court. He admitted guilt to intentional strangulation and assault, and was later convicted after a trial of an additional charge of intentional strangulation and assault, along with four charges of rape and one count of making threats to kill.
Reece Vella received a 19-year jail sentence and will undergo an extended licence period for an additional six years.
The inquiry commenced on Wednesday, 15 November 2023, following the victim’s submission to the police over her recurrent assaults by an acquaintance.
On Monday, 28 August 2023, the defendant applied a choke hold on the victim, obstructing her ability to breathe.
On Tuesday, 14 November 2023, Reece Vella unlawfully entered the victim’s residence, secured the doors, and thereafter confiscated her phone and keys.
Reece 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 Reece 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 Reece 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.”
If you or anyone you know have been affected by the people highlighted in this article, then please report those individuals to the Police on 101 (999 if an emergency) or visit their online resources for further details of the options for reporting a crime. You can also make a report at Crimestoppers should you wish to be completely anonymous. There is help available on our support links page.