A 19-year-old man has been charged with multiple sexual offences following two harrowing incidents involving teenage girls in Exeter. The assaults occurred near Digby and Sowton railway station and on a train headed for Exeter St David’s on the evening of Friday, 9 May 2025.
Suspect Identified and Charged
Sonny Boyes, from Exeter, has been charged with:
- Two counts of rape
- Three counts of assault by penetration
He is accused of sexually attacking two teenage girls, aged 16 and 17, in separate but closely timed incidents. Boyes is scheduled to appear at Exeter Magistrates’ Court on 12 May 2025.
Detective Inspector Emma Lefort of Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed that specialist officers are supporting both victims, who have shown great bravery in coming forward.
Timeline of the Assaults
The offences occurred between 8:45 PM and 10:00 PM:
- The 16-year-old was raped on Clyst Halt Avenue, near the railway station.
- The 17-year-old was sexually assaulted twice — once on the station platform, and again on a train travelling to Exeter St David’s.
Devon and Cornwall Police swiftly established scene guards in the area and launched a high-visibility patrol operation to reassure the public and gather evidence.
Witness Appeal
Detective Chief Inspector Dave Pebworth urged the public to come forward with any information. Officers are particularly interested in hearing from:
- Anyone who was near Digby and Sowton railway station during the timeframe
- Train passengers travelling between 8:45 PM and 10:00 PM
- Individuals who may have seen suspicious activity or captured footage
Those with information should:
- Visit: devon-cornwall.police.uk/contact
- Call: 101, quoting reference 50250116456
- Or contact Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111
Community and Police Response
The case has sent shockwaves through the Exeter community. Police have increased patrols around the Digby and Sowton area, including rail networks, to reassure the public.
A spokesperson for British Transport Police confirmed collaboration with local officers to review CCTV and coordinate forensic efforts.
