Croydon man on trial for rape in Southend

Edward McGrath, 36, from Croydon, is currently on trial at Basildon Crown Court, facing allegations of rape and sexual assault. The prosecution claims the offences occurred in a Southend car park after the group had been at a pub. McGrath denies the charges, asserting that consensual sexual activity took place after he returned to the woman's flat to check on her.

Witness Account of Car Park Incident

A witness told the court that she found McGrath standing close behind her friend in a Southend car park. The alleged victim's leggings were pulled down to her knees, and she appeared confused and unable to communicate effectively. The witness stated her friend was intoxicated and could not stand upright. She intervened, pulling up the woman's leggings, believing something was about to happen to her. McGrath became angry when she interrupted, according to the witness. She later helped the disoriented woman, who was vomiting and drifting in and out of sleep, back to a car.

The court heard that the complainant had met McGrath and Christopher Stannard, 38, for the first time that evening at a Southend pub. After leaving the pub, the complainant's condition worsened significantly. The witness testified that her friend had not drunk a large amount compared to her usual intake, and the drinks were not particularly strong.

Entry to the Woman's Flat

Following the incident in the car park, CCTV footage shows McGrath and Stannard entering the woman's flat in Southend. Prosecutor Cyrus Shroff informed the jury that Stannard has pleaded guilty to burgling the property during the time they remained there for several hours. The defence for McGrath maintains he returned to the flat to ensure the woman's well-being and that any subsequent sexual activity was consensual.

The trial continues.