Sexual assault by a member of the security team at Heaven nightclub

The risk of violence and sexual assaults against women and girls enjoying a night out in public areas is increasingly reported in the press. 

Rallies have been held opposing violence against women. The risk to women of drink spiking is now regularly in the news and is prominent again as we approach the Christmas holiday period.  The Queen recently spoke about violence against women more generally when she attended an event to mark the 50th anniversary of Women’s Aid.  

The government have pledged to “halve violence against women and girls in a decade” with proposals including fast-tracking rape cases through the criminal justice system.  

However, a shocking case was recently reported in relation to the well-known Heaven nightclub in London highlights the ongoing risks.  

The Metropolitan Police confirmed that they successfully applied to Westminster Council to suspend the licence of the nightclub which is based in Villiers Street London on public safety grounds. The club remains closed until a full hearing can take place later this month. 

The licence hearing was told that a woman who had been denied entry to the club was allegedly raped in a motor vehicle close to the club by a member of the club’s security staff on 1 November 2024. The women and others in her group had left the queue to enter the club after they were refused entry and spoke to a member of the security team. She was then approached by another male security guard who promised to help her get into the club. She was led away from the entrance to the club and walked into a side street and into the back of a car where she was raped.  

It is alleged that when the women attempted to report the attack other staff employed at the club who ignored her and failed to call the police.  

It has been reported that the man in question has been arrested and charged with rape. He Is now on remand in prison and is due back in court on 11 December 2024.

The women in question reported the sexual assault to the police who were able to view CCTV evidence which assisted the police in their investigations and will be useful evidence in the criminal case. 

If you are the survivor of sexual assault by doormen or employees of a club, bar or pub you may be able to pursue a civil claim against the owners of the establishment or make a claim to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority.  

Compensation is a small step towards taking control of your life and getting the justice you deserve.

We understand how difficult it can be for you to talk about the abuse you suffered. That’s why our specially trained child abuse solicitors work closely alongside psychologists and barristers to support you both emotionally and legally.

Justice for abuse survivors should be accessible no matter how long ago it happened. That’s why we fought for a landmark change in the law, which allows an abuse claim to be brought before a court regardless of when it took place.

If you want to discuss the options that are open to you, please contact our specialist Abuse Team at Jordans Solicitors.