James Holder, the co-founder of Superdry clothing company, has been convicted of raping a woman following a night of drinking, potentially facing imprisonment. The incident occurred when Holder, aged 54, visited the woman’s home, fell asleep on her bed, and later coerced her into the bedroom where the assault took place.

During the trial at Gloucester Crown Court, Holder denied allegations of assault by penetration but was found guilty of rape. The victim, who was attacked in the early hours of May 7, 2022, stated that she had pleaded for him to stop while he persisted. Following the assault, the woman managed to escape, prompting Holder to leave shortly thereafter.

In his defense, Holder claimed that the sexual activity was consensual, emphasizing that the encounter lasted about 20 minutes. However, the victim firmly described it as rape. Holder further argued that the woman had initiated the encounter and indicated her desire for intimacy.

The prosecution challenged Holder’s version of events, suggesting that he took advantage of the situation to engage in sexual activity without consent. Despite his assertions of mutual agreement, the court ruled in favor of the victim’s account, leading to Holder’s remand in custody pending sentencing.