How Did Delays in My Rapist's Trial Leave Me Terrified?

Morwenna Loughman's harrowing experience of repeated trial delays for her rapist highlights the significant trauma survivors endure within the UK justice system. After being violently raped in February 2023 and enduring various personal hardships, including acute post-traumatic stress disorder, she ultimately saw her attacker convicted only in August 2025. This delay has raised serious concerns about the handling of sexual assault cases and the impact of systemic failures on survivors.

Last updated: 16 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The recent revelations surrounding Morwenna Loughman’s case have drawn attention to a critical issue in the UK justice system, particularly concerning delays in sexual assault trials. With her experience illustrating the emotional and psychological toll of such postponements, the calls for reform are intensifying. The challenges that survivors face are compounded by a system that is struggling with significant backlog, with record high numbers of cases awaiting trial.

Key takeaways

• Morwenna Loughman experienced severe trauma due to delays in her trial.
• There has been a notable increase in trial postponements, with one-third of trials delayed in 2024.
• Justice Minister Sarah Sackman has acknowledged the crisis in the criminal courts.

Timeline: how we got here

The following timeline outlines key events in Morwenna Loughman's case and the wider context of trial delays in the UK:

• February 2023: Morwenna Loughman is violently raped, suffering over 48 injuries.
• August 2025: Her attacker is finally convicted after multiple trial cancellations.
• 2024: Research by Rape Crisis England and Wales shows a spike in trial postponements, now affecting one in three cases.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Morwenna Loughman's testimony has surfaced amid ongoing discussions about the crisis faced by the UK justice system. Her account has prompted renewed scrutiny on the impact of trial delays on survivors of sexual violence.

What was already established

The growing backlog in the UK criminal courts has been a longstanding issue, exacerbated by various factors including the COVID-19 pandemic. Data from the Ministry of Justice indicates that as of June 2025, there are more than 78,000 open cases in Crown Courts.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The repercussions of trial delays extend beyond individual cases. Survivors like Loughman experience significant emotional and psychological distress, which can lead to broader societal impacts including increased healthcare needs and support services. The fear and trauma associated with delayed justice can contribute to a pervasive sense of insecurity among potential victims.

Businesses and jobs

The systemic delays mean that many survivors may be unable to work or function normally in their daily lives, contributing to a potential loss of productivity in the workforce. Morwenna Loughman’s situation exemplifies this, as she lost her job and faced severe disruptions to her living situation.

Policy and regulation

Government officials, including Justice Minister Sarah Sackman, have acknowledged the urgency of the situation and are working to enhance courtroom capacity and hire additional staff. However, the effectiveness of these measures remains to be seen, especially in the context of rising demand for justice in sexual assault cases.

Numbers that matter

• 33% of trials were postponed in 2024, compared to 10% in 2015.
• More than 78,000 open cases were reported in Crown Courts as of June 2025.
• Morwenna Loughman endured over 48 injuries as a result of her assault.

Definitions and jargon buster

• PTSD: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event.
• Crown Court: A type of court in England and Wales that deals with serious criminal cases.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the immediate future, it is crucial for survivors to seek support from organisations such as Rape Crisis and to advocate for their rights within the justice system. Public awareness campaigns may help to highlight the issues faced by survivors and push for reforms.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the government implements measures to address courtroom backlogs, stakeholders will need to monitor the effectiveness of these reforms. Community support systems and legal advocacy will remain vital for ensuring survivors receive the justice they deserve.

Signals to watch

• Trends in trial postponements as reported by Rape Crisis England and Wales.
• Government announcements regarding courtroom capacity and staffing increases.
• Case outcomes for survivors and any changes in support services.

Practical guidance

Do

• Seek support from local or national organisations if you are a victim or know someone affected by sexual violence.
• Engage in discussions about the importance of timely justice for victims.

Don’t

• Ignore the impact of delays on survivors; it is crucial to address these issues publicly.
• Assume that all cases will be handled uniformly; each survivor's experience is unique.

Checklist

• Understand your rights as a survivor within the legal system.
• Identify resources and support services available in your area.
• Stay informed about updates in your case or similar cases that may impact you.
• Advocate for systemic changes through community engagement.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the current discourse highlights the challenges faced by survivors, it is essential to acknowledge that data on trial delays and their impacts can be variable. Factors such as resource allocation, staffing levels, and legislative changes can all influence the effectiveness of the justice system. Continuous monitoring and advocacy will be necessary to ensure that improvements are made and that survivors receive timely justice.

Bottom line

Morwenna Loughman's story underscores the urgent need for reforms within the UK justice system to address the alarming rates of trial delays that significantly impact survivors of sexual violence. As the government seeks to implement changes, it is vital for society to remain vigilant, advocate for justice, and support those affected by similar experiences.

FAQs

What are the common reasons for trial delays in sexual assault cases?

Common reasons for trial delays include backlog in the court system, lack of available judges, and procedural issues that can arise unexpectedly.

How can survivors seek support during trial delays?

Survivors can reach out to organisations like Rape Crisis for emotional support, legal advice, and resources tailored to their needs during these challenging times.

What impact do delays have on survivors of sexual violence?

Delays can exacerbate trauma, lead to feelings of helplessness, and may result in additional mental health challenges, making it crucial for the justice system to address these issues promptly.