San Francisco, CA –Today, San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins announced that her office secured a conviction of Sarith Soun (41) after trial by jury for assault to commit rape (PC 220(a)), attempted rape (PC 664/261(a)(3)), sexual battery by restraint (PC 243.4(a)), assault by means likely to produce great bodily injury (PC 245(a)(4)), and criminal threats (PC 422).  Soun violently attacked, tried to rape and sexually assaulted a woman in her Tenderloin apartment in the early morning hours of June 22, 2022.  He threatened to kill her if she said anything about the assault to anyone.  

“The jury’s verdict delivers justice for the survivor and reinforces that those who commit sexual assault in our city will be held accountable,” said District Attorney Brooke Jenkins.  “We hope that this allows the survivor in this case to begin the process of healing.  She has shown immeasurable courage through this prosecution, and I am confident that she will serve as an inspiration to other survivors.” 

The case against Soun was successfully prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Melissa Demetral with assistance from paralegal Andrew Ong and Victim Advocate Cindy Pelayo who worked closely with the survivor.  DAI Senior Inspector Lessa Vivian and investigators from the San Francisco Police Department’s Special Victims Unit worked closely with the prosecutors to develop the case against Soun.

“This conviction is a testament to the power, courage, and strength of the survivor who bravely conveyed the events of her sexual assault to the jury,” said Assistant District Attorney Melissa Demetral.  “I am grateful to the San Francisco Police Department for their outstanding investigative work that ensured that the jury had the tools they needed to hold the defendant accountable, and to the jury for taking care and deliberation in reaching their decision.”

Soun was arrested on June 22, 2022, by members of the San Francisco Police Department.  He has been in custody and is facing more than 12 years in State Prison.  Sentencing will be determined at a future court date, which has not been set.

If you or a loved one is in need of support, please seek help. In an emergency call 9-1-1.

Below are additional resources for support:

• San Francisco Women Against Rape 415.647.7273
• Rape Trauma Services 650.692.7276
• Rape Abuse and Incest National Network (RAINN) 800.656.4673

Court Number: 22006064

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