The family of the Dorset teenager Gaya Pope told jurors that her mental and physical health had deteriorated and she had “lost herself in fear and insecurity” after announcing that she had been raped at the age of 16.
Relatives have revealed that the “happy” girl they know slips away at times after she told police about the alleged rape, which led to an investigation, but without charge.
In a video released to the Bournemouth jury, the family said: “After she said she was raped, Gaia’s deteriorating physical and mental health changed her life. Sometimes our girl seemed to disappear, lost in fear and uncertainty, but she struggled. boldly to return to us and her inner light always shone through the clouds. ”
Pope, 19, who had epilepsy, disappeared from Swansea in November 2017, and her body was found on a rock 11 days later.
The teenager was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder after she said she had been raped and worried during her disappearance that the man she accused – who had been in prison for unrelated sexual offenses – was about to be released.
On the day she disappeared, Pope had to file a formal complaint with the police after indecent images were sent on social media.
The exciting video and still images of Gaia and her family gave her an idea of her story: “Gaia grew up in Dorset with her mother Natasha, older sister Clara, twin sister Maya and cousin Mariena.
“Gaia loved her family and her home very much. She was the happiest of Perbeck’s nature, introduced to her by her grandparents, inspired by her beauty and wildlife to create art or cuddle with her beloved cat Bella, a savior who tends to scratch others but who let Gaia rock her like a baby.
“Gaia was a force of nature and fiercely loyal to those she loved. Although she was bullied at school or maybe because of it, she was always ready to stand up for those who needed it. She was a shoulder to cry on and a friend she could count on. There was never a dull or quiet moment with Gaia around. She had a happy character, a ready and radiant smile and filled our lives with song and laughter. “
Despite her decline, the portrait says she maintains her dreams, hoping to have a large family and host Christmas at a villa in Dorset, surrounded by family and friends.
It adds: “The challenges she faces as a young woman living with epilepsy and as a survivor of sexual violence have inspired her to pursue a career in healthcare and social care. Gaia had strong values and wanted to contribute to a positive change in her community. That makes us so proud. ”
The video features Gaia and her twin Maya singing together in the bedroom with a banner hanging on the wall that reads, “This mess is a room.” The portrait ended: “Above all, we remember the great passion, compassion and creativity of Gaia. Thanks for every day we shared with her. The world is a darker place without Gaia, and we will miss her every minute of the rest of our lives. ”
Video pen portraits are relatively new and are only allowed on request in several investigations. The Inquest charity, which supports members of Gaia’s family, is a big advocate for them, as they allow relatives to show more than the person who died.
The investigation continues.
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