Justin Saliba, 50, has been convicted of sexually abusing and raping a woman he knew to be vulnerable, a judge said – despite Saliba continuing to deny the attack
A man who sexually abused and raped a woman shamelessly claimed she had “dreamt” the attack, a court heard.
Justin Saliba, 50, was described by a judge as behaving in a “grotesque” manner and causing “irreparable damage” to his victim, Wales Online reports. Cardiff Crown Court heard the rape happened in 2021 at Saliba’s flat in Cardiff. The victim, who had consumed alcohol, cannabis and prescription medication, fell asleep and later woke to find Saliba sexually assaulting her and then raping her.
The rape came to an end when the victim’s phone rang and she managed to escape the room. She immediately reported the attack to family members, who called the police.
When Saliba was arrested, he denied the attack, claiming it had never happened and arguing the victim was confusing a dream with reality.
Saliba, of Cheam Place, Llanishen, Cardiff, was previously convicted of sexual assault and rape. He has eight prior convictions for 25 offences, none of which are of a sexual nature.
In a statement read by prosecutor Nik Strobl, the victim said she would never get over the attack, adding it would haunt her for the rest of her life.
Kathryn Lane, Saliba’s defence lawyer, said references showed there was another side to him as a “compassionate” family man. But Judge Eugene Egan said he had targeted his victim, aware of her vulnerable state.
Saliba was sentenced to 11 years in prison and will serve two-thirds in custody before being released on licence to serve the remainder in the community. He will remain a registered sex offender for life.
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault, you are not alone. Rape Crisis offers support 24 hours a day, every day of the year. You can call their helpline at 0808 500 2222.
