Ex-Spandau Ballet singer guilty of sex assaults
Ross Davidson, a 37-year-old performer with ties to the world of musical theatre and 1980s pop, has been found guilty of rape and attempted rape. Davidson, who also performed under the stage name Ross Wild, starred in the West End production of We Will Rock You and performed with Spandau Ballet in 2018.
The Charges and the Verdict
Jurors at Wood Green Crown Court delivered the guilty verdicts on Wednesday, following over 11 hours of deliberation. Davidson had pleaded not guilty to raping a woman in London in March 2015, and to the attempted rape and sexual assault of another woman in Thailand in December 2019. He maintained that all sexual activity was consensual.
A Pattern of Behavior
The court heard evidence of prior offenses, with Davidson previously found guilty of rape, two counts of sexual assault, and voyeurism against four other women. He had already pleaded guilty to a voyeurism charge related to secretly filmed video of the woman in Thailand, discovered on his mobile phone.
The Prosecution’s Case
Prosecutor Richard Hearnden argued that Davidson, despite being perceived as “a bit of a sex symbol,” harbored “a much darker side.” Hearnden stated that Davidson believed he was entitled to “sex on demand” and would resort to assault when that expectation wasn’t met. The women involved met Davidson through the Tinder dating app.
Details of the Assaults
The rape victim testified that Davidson attacked her while she was asleep in his bed, leaving her feeling “helpless” and “scared to react.” She recalled Davidson expressing a fascination with “a person in a helpless state, someone not moving.” In another instance, Davidson allegedly placed a sex collar and wrist cuffs on a woman without her permission, removing them only when she asked.
The woman in Thailand recounted waking up to find Davidson attempting to have sex with her without consent or a condom. She stated that he thanked her for “being cool about it” when she stopped him. Despite this, she remained with him, describing the situation as “regrettable but fair.”
The Evidence
Police discovered a video on Davidson’s phone showing the woman in Thailand being fondled while asleep and “unresponsive.” She was unaware of the video’s existence until informed by police in 2023. Davidson admitted to creating the video for “selfish reasons” and “sexual gratification,” claiming he had permission to touch her, but not to film.
What Happens Next?
A further hearing is scheduled for February 4 at Wood Green Crown Court to determine a sentencing date. It is possible that Davidson could face a significant prison sentence, given the severity and number of charges. The judge thanked the jury for their work, acknowledging the difficult nature of the case. A sentencing outcome could also influence future legal proceedings related to similar allegations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges was Ross Davidson found guilty of?
Ross Davidson was found guilty of rape, attempted rape, two counts of sexual assault, and voyeurism.
Where did the assaults take place?
The assaults took place in London in March 2015 and in Thailand in December 2019.
What was Davidson’s defense?
Davidson pleaded not guilty to the charges, claiming that all sexual activity was consensual.
Given the gravity of these convictions, how do we, as a society, better support victims of sexual assault and ensure accountability for perpetrators?