Two brothers, Mark Evans and Robert Evans, have been found guilty of raping two teenage girls in Rotherham almost two decades ago. The National Crime Agency stated that the abuse began in 2006 when the defendants were around 18 and 21 years old. After a two-week trial at Sheffield Crown Court, both brothers were convicted on two counts of rape each. Mark Evans was also found guilty of sexual activity with a child and assault by penetration. The arrests were made in August 2020 following an investigation by the NCA’s Operation Stovewood, which focuses on historic sexual abuse in Rotherham and was prompted by allegations from three female victims. The court heard that the brothers intimidated the girls, plied them with drugs and alcohol, and then lured them to locations where they were attacked, with one victim being only 13 years old at the time.

Specific details of the assaults were shared during the trial, with one victim being taken to an abandoned barn by Mark Evans, who then separated her from her friends and raped her. The same victim was later attacked by Robert Evans after being lured to a house in Rotherham under false pretenses and then raped. Another victim was led to an alleyway by Mark, where she was raped, followed by another assault by Robert in a bathroom after being lured to a house. The third victim, who was just 13 years old, was groomed by Mark with alcohol and drugs, being referred to as his girlfriend. The NCA highlighted the manipulative tactics used by the brothers to lure young girls to places where they could abuse them.

The victims’ testimonies played a crucial role in the investigation, as they bravely shared the harrowing details of the abuse they suffered at the hands of the Evans brothers. NCA senior investigator Kim Boreham commended the victims for their courage in reliving the trauma and helping ensure that the brothers faced justice for their crimes. The investigation also revealed the lack of remorse displayed by the brothers after the attacks. Ann Marie Evans, the sister of Mark and Robert, faced charges under the Sexual Offences Act for posting social media identifying two of her brothers’ victims, despite victims of sexual offences being granted life-long anonymity by law. She was convicted and sentenced, while the sentencing of Mark and Robert Evans is scheduled for January 16 at Sheffield Crown Court.

Victims of rape, whether recent or historic, are urged to seek help and support, with various resources available for reporting and accessing medical treatment. Reporting to the police can be done through emergency or non-emergency lines, with the assistance of an Independent Sexual Violence Advocate. Preserving potential DNA evidence by not washing clothes or showering after an assault is recommended to aid in investigations. Those who do not wish to involve the police can seek support from trusted individuals or helplines specialized in rape and sexual assault. Medical treatment can be sought at A&E or a Sexual Assault Referral Centre, regardless of whether there are physical injuries. The important message conveyed is that support is available, regardless of the timing of the assault.

The conviction of the Evans brothers for their heinous crimes serves as a reminder of the importance of holding perpetrators of sexual abuse accountable. The courage of the victims in coming forward and sharing their experiences has contributed to ensuring that justice is served. Ann Marie Evans’ actions in identifying victims on social media underscore the significance of protecting the anonymity of sexual offences survivors. The forthcoming sentencing of Mark and Robert Evans brings a sense of closure to the victims while also serving as a warning to others who may consider committing similar acts. The availability of support services and the legal framework in place to address sexual offences are essential components in promoting justice and healing for survivors of such crimes.

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