On the evening of Friday, May 9, 2025, a disturbing incident unfolded near Digby and Sowton railway station in Exeter, UK, shaking the local community. Two teenage girls, aged 16 and 17, were reportedly victims of sexual violence in separate incidents.
Devon and Cornwall Police swiftly responded, charging 19-year-old Sonny Boyes from Exeter with two counts of rape and three counts of assault by penetration. Boyes is set to appear at Exeter Magistrates’ Court on Monday, May 12, 2025.
This case has sparked concern about public safety and highlighted the ongoing challenge of addressing sexual violence. As the investigation continues, authorities are appealing for witnesses who were near the station between 8:45 PM and 10:00 PM on the night of the incidents.
Details of the Incident and Investigation
The incidents occurred in the Digby and Sowton area, a suburban part of Exeter served by a railway station on the Avocet Line, connecting Exeter to Exmouth. According to Devon and Cornwall Police, officers received reports on Friday evening that a 16-year-old girl had been raped near Clyst Halt Avenue around 9:00 PM.
Approximately 30 minutes later, a 17-year-old girl was reportedly sexually assaulted twice in the vicinity of the railway station. The proximity of the incidents, both in time and location, prompted an urgent police investigation led by Detective Inspector Emma Lefort of Exeter CID.
Following a detailed investigation, Sonny Boyes, a 19-year-old Exeter resident, was identified as the suspect. He faces serious charges: two counts of rape and three counts of assault by penetration, relating to the two victims.
These charges reflect the severity of the alleged crimes, which have shocked the community. Boyes was arrested shortly after the reports and is scheduled to appear before Exeter Magistrates’ Court on Monday, May 12, 2025, where the legal process will begin to determine his culpability.
The police have issued a public appeal for witnesses, particularly those who were near Digby and Sowton railway station or on a train passing through between 8:45 PM and 10:00 PM on May 9. Authorities are seeking any information that could aid the investigation, emphasizing the importance of even minor details.
Individuals with relevant information are encouraged to contact Devon and Cornwall Police via their website, by calling 101 and quoting reference number 50250116456, or anonymously through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111. The investigation remains active, with police committed to uncovering all facts surrounding the incidents.
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The Digby and Sowton railway station, while typically a quiet hub for commuters, has now become the focal point of this high-profile case. The incidents have raised questions about safety in public spaces, particularly during evening hours when foot traffic may be lower. As the legal proceedings unfold, the community awaits answers and justice for the victims.
Community Impact and Support for Victims
The reported assaults have reverberated through Exeter, a city known for its historic charm and close-knit communities. Digby and Sowton, located on the eastern outskirts, is a residential area with schools, businesses, and green spaces, making the news of such violent crimes particularly unsettling.
Residents have expressed shock and concern, with many taking to social media to voice their support for the victims and demand enhanced safety measures. Posts on X reflect the community’s distress, with users sharing news of the incidents and urging others to come forward with information.
Devon and Cornwall Police have prioritized victim support, with Detective Inspector Emma Lefort stating that the victims are being assisted by specialist officers trained to handle cases of sexual violence. These officers provide emotional support, guidance through the legal process, and access to resources such as counseling and advocacy services.
The police’s commitment to victim care underscores the importance of a trauma-informed approach, ensuring the girls’ well-being remains a priority as the case progresses.
The incidents have also sparked broader conversations about safety in public spaces. Parents, community leaders, and local organizations are calling for increased police patrols, better lighting around the railway station, and educational initiatives to promote safety awareness.
Schools in the area may consider offering workshops on personal safety for students, while community groups could organize forums to address concerns and propose solutions. The case serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by young people, particularly in less crowded areas during evening hours.
Nationally, the incident contributes to ongoing discussions about sexual violence against women and girls. According to UK statistics, sexual offences have risen in recent years, with young women and teenagers among the most vulnerable groups.
The Exeter case highlights the need for systemic changes, including stronger legal protections, improved reporting mechanisms, and community-based prevention programs. As the community grapples with this tragedy, there is a collective resolve to support the victims and prevent future incidents.
Addressing Sexual Violence: A Call for Action
The charges against Sonny Boyes are a sobering reminder of the pervasive issue of sexual violence in society. Across the UK and beyond, efforts to combat such crimes involve a multi-faceted approach: prevention, education, and justice.
Prevention starts with addressing root causes, such as gender-based stereotypes and societal attitudes that normalize or excuse harmful behavior. Educational programs in schools and communities can teach young people about consent, healthy relationships, and bystander intervention, empowering them to challenge inappropriate conduct.
Law enforcement plays a critical role in responding to sexual violence. The swift action by Devon and Cornwall Police in this case demonstrates the importance of rapid response and thorough investigation.
However, challenges remain, including underreporting of sexual crimes due to stigma or fear of retaliation. Encouraging victims to come forward requires building trust in the justice system, ensuring sensitive handling of cases, and providing robust support services.
Community engagement is equally vital. Initiatives like neighborhood watch programs, safety campaigns, and partnerships with local organizations can enhance public safety.
In Exeter, the incidents may prompt the city council to invest in infrastructure improvements, such as CCTV cameras or better-lit pathways around Digby and Sowton station. Grassroots movements, including those led by women’s advocacy groups, can amplify victims’ voices and push for policy changes.
On a broader scale, addressing sexual violence requires cultural shifts. Media, policymakers, and influencers must work to challenge harmful narratives and promote respect and equality. By fostering a society where sexual violence is unequivocally condemned, communities can create safer environments for all.
The alleged crimes committed near Digby and Sowton railway station have left an indelible mark on Exeter, prompting reflection on safety, justice, and community resilience. As Sonny Boyes faces serious charges, the focus remains on supporting the two young victims and ensuring a fair legal process.
Devon and Cornwall Police’s ongoing investigation and appeal for witnesses underscore the collective effort needed to achieve justice. The incident serves as a call to action, urging communities to address sexual violence through prevention, support, and systemic change. By coming together, Exeter residents can honor the victims’ courage and work toward a safer future. Anyone with information should contact the police, as every detail matters in the pursuit of truth and accountability.