A 35-year-old man, David Maria Anthony Rayan, who pleaded guilty to sexually assaulting over a dozen women at a Melbourne nightclub, has received a two-year community corrections order instead of a prison sentence. Rayan was charged with 17 counts of sexual assault and one attempt of sexual assault involving 18 women at Revolver Upstairs in Prahran during 2023.
During the sentencing, Rayan appeared calm, nodding in acknowledgement of the ruling. CCTV footage played in court revealed Rayan engaging in inappropriate behaviour, including groping victims and kissing them on the arms and shoulders. Judge Peter Rozen described Rayan’s actions as “brazen,” indicating the deliberate nature of his offences.
The judge noted Rayan’s significant moral culpability and expressed concern over his lack of insight into his actions. Despite this, Judge Rozen acknowledged that Rayan posed a low risk of reoffending and deemed the crimes atypical of his character. As part of his community corrections order, Rayan is required to complete 180 hours of unpaid community service.