A 41-year-old man who sexually assaulted an unconscious woman and urinated on her while she was in an “extremely vulnerable state” has been sentenced to six years in prison.

Michael John O’Brien appeared in the Royal Court on Thursday to be sentenced.

He was found guilty of five charges – including sexual penetration without consent, sexual touching, causing a sexual act without consent, and voyeurism – following a four-day trial in April.

During the trial, the prosecution said O’Brien took advantage of the woman while she was under the influence of alcohol and prescription drugs and used her “extremely vulnerable state” as a “unique opportunity to assault her”.

The charges stem from an incident in which the defendant and the victim met by chance in a corner shop.

The two acquaintances exchanged messages later that evening, and O’Brien arrived at the victim’s flat around midnight.

The two drank alcohol and shared cannabis, and during the course of the night, O’Brien made multiple unwanted sexual advances.

Despite the victim repeatedly rejecting him, he went on to assault her when she became unconscious due to the combined effects of vodka, cannabis and her prescription medication.

He took multiple images and videos of the abuse on his mobile phone, and she woke to him urinating on her.

The victim, who had been too intoxicated to remember much of the attack, later found CCTV security footage that captured the events.

O’Brien, who had no prior convictions, denied all allegations and claimed the sexual activity was consensual.

 In April, jury of six men and six women returned a not guilty verdict on the count of rape.

In addition to the six-year custodial sentence, O’Brien will be subject to an indefinite restraining order.

SUPPORT…

Jersey Domestic and Sexual Abuse Support (JDAS) offer specialist support and guidance in relation to domestic or sexual abuse incidents. Support is provided before, during and after any police investigation or court hearing. It is also available when police are not involved. Call: 01534 880505 or email JDAS@gov.je.

The SARC at Dewberry House provide expert independent and confidential support to victims of sexual abuse. The Centre comprises of a team of experts with a wealth of knowledge and experience in advising, supporting and treating anyone who has been raped or sexually assaulted. Call: 01534 888222. 

Jersey Action Against Rape (JAAR) provide and maintain a supporting framework for survivors and their families. Tel: 01534 482801. 

FREEDA (Freedom from Domestic Abuse) offer a 24-hour helpline, access to safe accommodation as well as help and support for victims of domestic abuse. Tel: 0800 7356836. 

Victims First Jersey is a free and independent service offering confidential support to victims and witnesses of crime. Tel: 0800 7351612.