Gang rape of teenage girls at bucks party in Newcastle, February 2022

In February 2022, a horrific incident occurred in Newcastle, where three men gang-raped three teenage girls during a bucks party. The victims, two 18-year-olds and a 19-year-old, were lured to an Airbnb under false pretenses. The assaults took place over two nights, leaving the victims traumatized and struggling with feelings of guilt and vulnerability. They described how the experience shattered their sense of safety and trust in others, particularly men. During the trial, the 19-year-old victim recounted being approached by Maurice, who used a fake name to entice her to the rental property. Once inside, she was assaulted while another man, David, forced himself on her. The other victims also testified about being pinned down and violated when they attempted to retrieve their belongings. The emotional toll of the assaults was profound, with victims reporting flashbacks and a deep sense of loss regarding their previous lives. The three men were found guilty after a weeks-long trial, with the jury concluding they engaged in a joint criminal enterprise to sexually assault the women. Despite the verdict, the accused maintain their innocence, claiming the sexual acts were consensual. This case highlights the ongoing issues of sexual violence and the challenges faced by survivors in seeking justice. The aftermath of the assaults has left the victims grappling with their trauma, as they navigate a world that feels unsafe. Their testimonies reveal the long-lasting effects of such violence, emphasizing the need for societal change and support for survivors.