Superdry co-founder James Holder convicted of rape in Cheltenham
Superdry co-founder James Holder convicted of rape in Cheltenham
James Holder, 54, found guilty of raping a woman after a night out in Cheltenham; jurors concluded the act was non-consensual despite his claims.
James Holder, 54, cofounder of Superdry, has been found guilty of raping a woman after a night out in the Gloucestershire town of Cheltenham. A Gloucester Crown Court jury, sitting in Cirencester, concluded that while a sexual act occurred, it was not consensual in the eyes of the law. Holder was convicted of rape and cleared of assault by penetration, and he was remanded in custody ahead of sentencing.
The court heard that Holder and a male friend accepted a ride in the witness's taxi after leaving a Cheltenham venue, and they went to her flat. The victim, who was intoxicated, told jurors she asked Holder to stop once the sexual activity began, but he did not. Prosecutor James Haskell said the woman's crying and pleas demonstrated a lack of consent.
Holder, who described himself in police interviews as 'old-school and chivalrous,' insisted the encounter was consensual. He told the court he 'looked after her throughout the whole evening.' The defence asked the victim whether the night was simply a drunken encounter she regretted; she replied 'Incorrect.' The jury's verdict reflected a conviction for rape and an acquittal on assault by penetration.
Holder's career as a fashion entrepreneur traces back to his home city of Cheltenham, where he co-founded the skateboarding and BMX label Bench before teaming up with Julian Dunkerton to launch Superdry on a market stall in 2003.
Authorities did not provide a sentencing date; he will appear again for sentencing. This case adds to ongoing discussions about accountability for high-profile business figures and the protection of victims in sexual assault cases.
