Woman blacked out after night in village pub - she woke to man raping her

A man was sentenced to nine years in prison after being found guilty of raping a woman who had lost consciousness following a night out at a village pub.

Steven Moore, 67, of Stickens Lane, East Malling, in Kent, attacked his victim after she became intoxicated during an evening at the former Rising Sun pub in Mill Street between November and December 2017. The incident was reported to Kent Police in March 2023, resulting in Moore's arrest and subsequent conviction.

On the night of the incident, the victim had engaged in casual conversation with Moore, who was known to one of her acquaintances. They consumed several drinks together before she became increasingly intoxicated and confused.

She recalled accompanying Moore to a nearby residential property, where she blacked out. When she woke up, she found that he was raping her.

A detailed police investigation followed, during which Moore denied the allegations. He was later charged with rape and pleaded not guilty, prompting a trial at Maidstone Crown Court.

A jury unanimously convicted him, and on 7 November 2025, Moore was sentenced to nine years' imprisonment.

Detective Sergeant Mike Williams of Kent Police praised the victim's bravery in coming forward after such a long time, stating that her courage ensured Moore was held accountable.

He said: "Steven Moore deliberately targeted a vulnerable woman, exploiting her trust and intoxicated state to subject her to a truly horrific ordeal.

"His actions were clearly calculated, and the impact on the victim has been profound. She has found it difficult to come forward but her tremendous courage has now thankfully ensured Moore has faced justice."

DS Williams added that the case serves as an important reminder that victims of sexual abuse can come forward at any time, no matter how much time has passed.

He added: "We know how difficult it can be for victims of sexual abuse to report such abhorrent and damaging offences, especially when so much time has passed.

"I hope this case demonstrates that no matter when offences have happened, you will always be listened to, believed, and supported."

Kent Police urge anyone affected by sexual violence or abuse to report it, stressing that specialist officers are available to offer confidential support and guidance at every stage.