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Superdry co-founder convicted of rape
James Holder, who co-founded the fashion brand Superdry, has been found guilty of raping a woman in Cheltenham in May 2022. A jury at Gloucester Crown Court delivered the verdict after a five-day trial.
Night out ends in assault
Holder, 54, had been on an impromptu night out on 6 May 2022 when he accompanied the victim back to her flat. According to prosecutors, he fell asleep on her bed while a friend slept on the sofa, leaving the woman to sleep on the floor.
Prosecutor James Haskell told the court that Holder later appeared at the living room doorway and asked the woman to join him in the bedroom. When she refused, he pulled her onto the bed and sexually assaulted her despite her protests and tears.
"At one point she remembered starting to cry but even then he didn't stop."
James Haskell, prosecuting
The victim managed to escape and leave the bedroom. Holder left the flat shortly afterward. She reported the incident to police in July 2022, providing a video-recorded statement.
Holder denies wrongdoing, bail refused
During a voluntary police interview in 2022, Holder described himself as someone who loved women and sex, claiming his instinct was to "protect" them. He also stated he could "handle alcohol well."
At the trial, the jury of seven men and five women found Holder guilty of rape but acquitted him of assault by penetration. Recorder David Chidgey denied Holder's request for bail to "get his affairs in order" and say goodbye to his family, citing his "significant resources" as a flight risk.
Superdry distances itself from case
Superdry confirmed that Holder resigned as a director and employee in 2016, with a consultancy arrangement ending in 2019. A spokesperson emphasized that the incident occurred years after his departure and had no connection to the company, its employees, or its operations.
"The case relates to an incident in 2022, long after any role with Superdry had ended. The court case does not relate to Superdry, its premises, employees or business activity."
Superdry spokesperson
Support for survivors emphasized
Detective Constable Elle MacLeod of Gloucestershire Constabulary's Rape and Serious Sexual Offences team praised the victim's bravery in coming forward and encouraged other survivors to report similar crimes.
"She has shown incredible strength, not only throughout our investigation, but also while giving evidence in court in front of a jury. Holder raped her despite her repeated pleas for him to stop."
Det Con Elle MacLeod
Sharne Maher, CEO of Gloucestershire Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre, called the case a "stark reminder" that sexual violence can be committed by anyone, regardless of status. She stressed the importance of believing and supporting survivors.
Sentencing awaited
Holder is scheduled to be sentenced on 7 May at Bristol Crown Court.
