Man charged with raping unconscious wife with other men for years
BBC World
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A man has been charged with drugging and sexually abusing his unconscious wife alongside 12 other men over a period spanning the early 2000s. The husband, whose identity is protected due to legal reasons, faces 48 charges including conspiracy to rape, sexual assault by penetration, and conspiracy to administer substances with intent to commit sexual offenses. The case involves defendants aged between 28 and 73, with some appearing in court and pleading not guilty to all charges. One man admitted guilt to multiple counts, while five others did not enter pleas during the initial hearing.
The allegations detail a disturbing pattern of abuse involving multiple perpetrators and victims who were rendered unconscious through drugging. The case was brought to light at Manchester Minshull Crown Court, where seven defendants, including the husband from Stockport, pleaded not guilty. Family members of the victim attended the proceedings, underscoring the personal and emotional stakes involved in the case.
Further court appearances are scheduled for March, with a trial set to begin on 1 September and expected to last 12 weeks. The case highlights the complexities of sexual violence cases involving multiple perpetrators and raises questions about how such crimes can go unnoticed for decades. It also underscores the challenges faced by victims seeking justice in high-profile, multi-defendant cases.
This story matters because it sheds light on the broader issue of systemic sexual violence and the lengths some individuals will go to commit such crimes. The charges, if proven, reflect a disturbing level of premeditation and complicity among the accused. The case also raises important questions about how such crimes are reported, investigated, and prosecuted, particularly when multiple perpetrators are involved over an extended period. It serves as a reminder of the need for robust legal frameworks to protect vulnerable individuals and hold perpetrators accountable.
The trial will likely spark significant media attention and public debate, given its severity and the high number of defendants involved. For readers interested in global justice issues, this case highlights the importance of vigilance in addressing sexual violence and the ongoing challenges faced by victims seeking justice. It also underscores the role
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/20/2026