A former Jersey restaurateur has been found guilty of rape and a series of assaults.

Gavin Neil Roberts, who ran Shinzo in St Aubin, has been convicted of rape, violence and two counts of sexual assault against one woman, and two counts of common assault against another woman.

Roberts pushed one of his victims against a doorframe, grabbing her neck, on Bath Street in early October 2022. Around a fortnight later, he raped and sexually assaulted her.

On the first day of his trial, the 44-year-old admitted two further counts of grave and criminal assault against the same woman later that same month.

Another woman made a separate complaint to police about Roberts, saying he assaulted her between 28 February 2022 and 1 September 2022 by laying on top of her and holding his hands around his victim's neck, and on an earlier occasion, by grabbing her by the neck and pushing her against a wall in September 2021.

Detective Constable Carla Garnier says the bravery displayed by the victims, who were known to Roberts, has been commendable throughout the investigation and court proceedings.

"The States of Jersey Police wish to acknowledge their courage and strength during this difficult time.

The States of Jersey Police remain dedicated to investigating and prosecuting sexual offenders. We ensure victims that multiple agencies are available to offer support and guidance throughout all stages of the criminal justice process."

Roberts, who was initially arrested on 30 October 2022, has been in custody for the duration of the investigation.

Following an eight-day trial, a jury at Jersey's Royal Court has returned unanimous guilty verdicts on all six charges that he had denied.

He will be sentenced for the eight offences at a later date.