Southampton Man Jailed for Raping Woman as She Slept in Colden Common

A 23-year-old man, Lewis Dean Pearce of Gort Crescent, Sholing, Southampton, has been sentenced to six years in prison for raping a woman while she slept at a friend’s home in Colden Common.

Pearce was convicted of rape following a four-day trial at Guildford Crown Court and was sentenced today after being found guilty on 6 August 2025.

The court heard that the incident took place on 25 April 2021, when the victim, a woman in her 20s, was staying overnight at a friend’s house on Elder Green. She woke up to find Pearce sexually assaulting her. Pearce was arrested and formally charged with rape in February 2024.

Speaking after the sentencing, Detective Constable Jack Droy of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary’s Criminal Investigations Department praised the courage of the victim.

“I would firstly like to commend the victim’s bravery and tenacity in this case. This has been a long investigation, and I would like to thank her for her support during the investigation and court process. I hope this result is able to bring her some closure,” said DC Droy.

He continued:

“Pearce’s actions that night are intolerable. Targeting a woman as she sleeps is not acceptable, and we will work tirelessly to bring these types of predatory offenders to justice.”

Police reiterated their commitment to supporting survivors of sexual assault and encouraged anyone affected to come forward.

“We take all allegations of rape and sexual assault seriously, and have specially trained teams to investigate these offences and support victims. If you have experienced these kinds of offences, it is our promise to you that you will be heard and listened to, and your report will be believed. We are determined to put victims first and relentlessly pursue offenders,” said DC Droy.

Victims of rape or sexual assault are urged to contact police on 101, or seek help from specialist support services available through the Hampshire Constabulary website.