Man who filmed himself having sex with an unconscious woman is jailed for rape

A 25-year-old man who filmed himself raping a woman whilst she was passed out has been sentenced.

Edison Northover, previously of Corby, filmed the horrific act during the early hours of January 18, 2024, whilst the woman in question was unconscious.

The woman had no idea what had had happened until she was shown the video by her younger sibling, and with the support of her family, reported the incident to Northamptonshire Police.

Northover was arrested, charged with rape, and subsequently remanded into custody, with officers preparing for the court proceedings in the meantime.

However, during this time, Northover made contact with the woman and attempted to dissuade her from supporting the case. He was therefore charged with another offence – perverting the course of justice.

At a trial at Northampton Crown Court in July, which lasted for six days and concluded on July 30, Northover was found unanimously guilty of both offences by the jury.

He was sentenced at the same court last week (September 13) to eight years and three months in prison.

Lead investigator Detective Constable Tina Twiselton of Northamptonshire Police’s SOLAR Team said: “This has been an incredibly traumatic experience for the survivor and I am so proud of her for her bravery in attending court, in supporting our investigation, and in ensuring the man who did this to her has been convicted and jailed.

“I know this wasn’t easy by any means and it is a testament to the courage she has that she found the strength to be able to do this.

“I hope the conclusion of this case provides her with some closure and an ability to move forward onto better and brighter things.

“Tackling violence against women and girls is a priority for Northamptonshire Police and every survivor of rape or sexual assault deserves to feel heard, believed and supported.

“We are very passionate about this in the SOLAR Team and will continue working hard to help more people like this woman put their Edison Northover behind bars.” 

If you have been a victim of sexual abuse or assault, whether recent or non-recent, please come forward by calling 101 or online at www.northants.police.uk/RO.

We will believe you.

If you have been a victim of rape or sexual abuse, but are not yet ready to speak to the police, please visit www.nhft.nhs.uk/serenity or call Serenity on 01604 601713.

Serenity provides free, confidential 24/7 support.

You can also visit www.voicenorthants.org  or call Voice on 0300 303 1965.

Voice is a support service for anyone living in Northamptonshire, regardless of when, where or how crime happened to you. Services are free, confidential and you don’t have to have reported anything to the police. 

*This press release and custody image have been released with the support and agreement of the survivor.*