A court in Birmingham has heard how John Ashby, 32, admitted raping a Sikh woman during a violent home invasion in Walsall. He changed his plea during the second day of his trial at Birmingham Crown Court.
Prosecutors told the jury that Ashby followed the woman after she left a bus in October 2025. He later forced entry into her home while carrying a wooden stick he picked up nearby. Once inside, he launched a sustained and violent attack. The victim tried to escape by locking herself in a bathroom, but Ashby forced his way in. He assaulted her, made threats, and subjected her to a prolonged rape. Prosecutors also said he carried out the attack while using religiously aggravated abuse.
Ashby wrongly assumed the woman’s religion and directed hostility towards her based on that belief. The prosecution described the incident as a clear example of a religious hate crime, driven by prejudice and violence. During the attack, he ordered the victim to undress and obey his instructions. He struck her with the stick and placed his hands around her neck. He also forced her into degrading actions while continuing the assault.
The court heard that Ashby repeatedly controlled and intimidated the victim throughout the ordeal. He made further disturbing comments and referred to himself in threatening terms while carrying out the crime. Eventually, he fled the scene after hearing a noise outside the property. Before leaving, he stole jewellery and a mobile phone belonging to the victim. She immediately contacted emergency services after he escaped.
Police arrested Ashby two days later in Birmingham. During questioning, he made further offensive remarks and showed hostility toward the victim’s identity. Investigators later built a strong case against him. Midway through the trial, Ashby admitted charges of rape, robbery, intentional strangulation, and religiously aggravated assault. The court recorded his guilty pleas after hearing prosecution evidence.
An incident in the courtroom briefly interrupted proceedings when a member of the public confronted Ashby. Court staff quickly restored order, and the judge praised their calm response. The judge warned Ashby that he faces a potential life sentence. He described the offence as extremely serious and highlighted the targeted nature of the attack.
Sentencing will take place later this week. The judge will consider the full details of the case, including the religious hostility shown during the assault. The case has drawn attention to the impact of violent offences motivated by prejudice. Authorities confirmed that they will continue to support the victim throughout the sentencing process.
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