Ethan Nolan

Ethan Nolan, aged 24 from Bristol, was convicted at Bristol Crown Court following a six-day trial in January 2026 for a series of serious sexual offences and abusive behaviours against two women. The offences spanned from 2022 to 2023, involving rape, sexual assault, and coercive control that escalated to physical violence.

In 2022, Nolan raped a woman he was in a relationship with while she slept at her home in Bristol. He subsequently attempted to manipulate her by convincing her that such acts were normal, demonstrating a pattern of psychological abuse from the outset.

In April 2023, Nolan entered a new relationship with a second woman in Surrey. He quickly began restricting her social interactions, preventing her from seeing friends and dictating changes to her attire. His coercive behaviour extended to financial control, as he coerced her into handing over her bank cards and sending him money. The abuse intensified, progressing from psychological manipulation to regular physical beatings. On one occasion, Nolan chillingly remarked, 'If I leave bruises over you, people will know you are mine.' This possessiveness culminated in him raping her twice within a couple of months.

Nolan was found guilty of three counts of rape, two counts of controlling and coercive behaviour, one count of sexual assault by penetration, one count of sexual assault by touching, and one count of intentional strangulation. The sentencing took place on 12 March 2026, where Judge [name not specified] imposed a custodial sentence of 19 years and six months. Additionally, Nolan was subjected to a lifelong restraining order and placed on the sex offenders register indefinitely.

Detective Constable Nat Stone from Surrey Police's Sexual Offences Investigation Team commented on the case, stating: 'Nolan is a dangerous man and his behaviour has impacted many lives.' The investigation, led by Surrey Police in collaboration with Avon and Somerset Police given the locations involved, underscored the authorities' commitment to addressing domestic abuse and sexual violence. The bravery of the victims in coming forward was pivotal in securing the conviction, as highlighted by DC Stone.

This case serves as a stark example of the devastating effects of serial sexual offending and coercive control within intimate relationships, with Nolan's actions leaving lasting trauma on his victims across Bristol and Surrey.