Junior Fombanu, a 27-year-old former rugby player from Corby, Northamptonshire, was convicted of assault by penetration following a sexual attack on an 18-year-old barmaid. The incident occurred approximately four years prior to his sentencing in late October 2025, when Fombanu, then 24, was introduced to the victim through mutual friends at a local pub where she worked.
On the night in question, Fombanu offered to drive the victim home after a social outing. Instead of taking her directly to her residence, he detoured to his house on Thwaite Close in Corby. The victim attempted to leave by calling a taxi but was persuaded to stay. Once inside, Fombanu launched a sexual assault, using his physical build—honed from playing rugby for S&L Rugby club—to restrain her by placing his forearm across her, preventing her escape. The attack lasted around two-and-a-half hours, during which the 5ft 1in, 50kg victim feared for her safety due to the significant size difference between them. She eventually managed to flee and take a taxi home.
The following day, the victim reported the assault to the police, leading to Fombanu's arrest. Notably, while in custody, Fombanu contacted her via phone—due to police oversight in seizing his device—asking if she had reported him. He later sent self-pitying voice notes admitting his actions, stating he had 'f***ed up so bad' and expressing uncertainty about what to do next. These messages were played to the jury during the trial at Northampton Crown Court.
- Fombanu initially pleaded not guilty, resulting in a trial delayed by four years due to issues in the criminal justice system.
- The victim bravely gave evidence, supported by her parents and three friends who also testified.
- The defence barrister accused her of fabricating the account, but the jury deliberated for less than two hours before finding Fombanu guilty.
At sentencing in late October 2025, the victim delivered a powerful impact statement detailing the profound, lasting effects of the trauma. She described increased alcohol use for a year post-assault, derailed career ambitions, ongoing anxiety, nightmares, flashbacks, and difficulties with physical closeness and trust. Despite withdrawing from loved ones initially, she has since pursued counselling, achieved her dream job helping other victims, and reclaimed her independence. Addressing Fombanu directly, she stated: 'Junior, I want you to understand the lasting harm your actions caused me. You no longer hold any control over me or my life. I have reclaimed my strength, rebuilt my confidence, and regained the freedom to live fully. I will continue to live my life, and through the consequences you now face, you will not be able to harm another woman in the future.' She emphasised her resilience, noting: 'I am finally starting to feel more in control of my life again, and I am determined to move forward with hope, strength, and purpose.'
Following his conviction, Fombanu was immediately suspended from S&L Rugby and barred from playing. Other women have since come forward alleging prior assaults by him, though no additional charges were filed at the time of reporting. As reported by the Northants Telegraph on 12 November 2025, Fombanu is now subject to sex offenders' notification requirements and an indefinite sexual harm prevention order. The victim, granted lifelong anonymity, shared details of the case to encourage other survivors to come forward.