Seven years for rape following Banbury night out
15/06/2026
The victim has been praised for her bravery and strength during the process
A man has been sent to prison for seven years for a rape which occurred following a night out in Banbury.
On February 14, 2023 Sam Augustus Layne, who’s 41 and from Gleneagle Road, Lambeth in London, had invited the victim, who he knew, to his home to continue socialising after a night out. When the victim fell asleep Layne proceeded to rape her.
She was in her 20s at the time.
Three days later Northamptonshire Police received a report of the offence from a friend of the victim.
Layne was arrested and subsequently charged in April 2024.
Following a four-day trial at Oxford Crown Court, on April 30 this year Layne was found guilty by a majority jury of one count of rape. Last Wednesday he was sentenced to seven years’ imprisonment, given an indefinite restraining order to the victim and given a sexual harm prevention order for fifteen years.
Investigating officer, Detective Constable Sarah Osborne of the North Oxfordshire Criminal Investigation Department said: “I commend the victim for her bravery in coming forward and for her strength throughout the criminal justice process. Reporting such an offence can be incredibly difficult, and her courage should not be underestimated.
“The victim fell asleep fully clothed in the presence of a man she trusted to keep her safe. Sam Layne chose to exploit that trust, raping her while she was asleep, vulnerable, and unable to give consent.
“This was a serious and profound violation of her trust, her dignity, and her sense of safety. I am pleased that Sam Layne has now been held accountable for his actions. This conviction reflects the seriousness of the offence and the harm caused.
“I hope this outcome sends a clear message that offences of this nature will be thoroughly investigated and pursued. Thames Valley Police remains committed to supporting victims and tackling violence against women and girls.”
Published: by the Banbury FM News Team
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