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The officer in charge of the investigation into a "very charming" but "very manipulative" restaurateur who was today convicted of rape and assaults has praised his two victims, expressing hopes that others in similar situations are encouraged to come forward.
Roberts (44), the former owner of collapsed steak and sushi restaurant Shinzo, was found guilty of assaulting one woman and assaulting and raping another.
He denied two counts of common assault against one woman, and one count of grave and criminal assault, one count of rape, and two counts of sexual penetration without consent against another woman - but on Thursday, a jury found him unanimously guilty after deliberating for three hours.
He had already pleaded guilty to two more counts of grave and criminal assault against the second woman shortly before the jury in the trial was selected.
Speaking after the conviction, DC Carla Garnier, the officer in charge in the case, said: “The bravery displayed by the victims, who were known to Gavin Roberts, has been commendable throughout the investigation and court proceedings. The States of Jersey Police wish to acknowledge their courage and strength during this difficult time."
DC Garnier also praised the victims' courage throughout what was a complex and lengthy investigative process: "They were willing to bear with us in order to secure a good conviction for them."
Describing Roberts as "very charming at times but also very manipulative towards women", she said she thought the case would help "encourage people to come forward in similar cases in the future".
Watch: DC Carla Garnier, the officer in charge of the case, spoke after Roberts' conviction
Speaking about the numerous stakeholders involved in the process, she commented: “The States of Jersey Police remain dedicated to investigating and prosecuting sexual offenders. We ensure victims that multiple agencies are available to offer support and guidance throughout all stages of the criminal justice process.
“We work closely with partners and support services such as the Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC), Jersey Action Against Rape (JAAR), and the Jersey Women’s Refuge. These organisations play a crucial role in encouraging victims to report sexual crimes and provide advice, support, and the option of assistance without the necessity of pursuing a criminal investigation.”
The Government's support service for victims of rape and other sexual abuse, Jersey Domestic and Sexual Abuse Support, said in a statement: "We would like to commend the courage of the victim-survivors in these cases, who gave evidence over several days and demonstrated extreme resilience and determination in very difficult circumstances.
"The verdict sends a clear message that victims voices will be heard and that abuse such as this will not be tolerated by society or the courts."
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Islanders affected by any of the issues raised in this report can contact any of the following:
SARC at Dewberry House provides expert independent and confidential support to victims of sexual abuse. Tel: 01534 888222.
Jersey Action Against Rape (JAAR) provide and maintain a supporting framework for survivors and their families. Confidential helpline: 01534 482800.
Freeda (formerly Jersey Women’s Refuge) offer help and support for victims of domestic abuse. Tel: 0800 7356836.
Jersey Domestic Abuse Support (JDAS) is an independent service developed to protect and support victims of domestic and sexual abuse. Tel: 01534 880505.
Victim Support offer free and confidential advice to victims of crime. Tel: 01534 440496.
Victims First Jersey is a free and independent service offering confidential support to victims and witnesses of crime. Tel: 0800 7351612.
Samaritans offer a confidential and non-judgemental listening ear to people who need to talk. Tel: 116 123 free from any phone or 0330 094 5717 (local call charges apply).
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