A man has admitted to drugging and raping his wife without her knowledge over a 20-year period.
Earlier this year he pleaded guilty to various sexual offences against his wife on dates between 2022 and 2025 including rape and sexual assault.
On Monday the husband, in his 60s, from Stockport, Greater Manchester, admitted similar offences dating back to 2004 including administering a substance with intent to stupefy or overpower his wife between 2004 and 2025.
The defendant cannot be identified to protect the anonymity of his wife.
He previously admitted five counts of rape, three counts of sexual assault, six counts of assault by penetration and one count of sharing intimate photos or film.
He has now pleaded guilty to a further 45 charges, taking the total to 60.
The additional 45 charges were for 16 counts of rape, nine counts of assault by penetration, eight counts of other sexual offences, seven counts of sexual assault, four counts of attempted rape and one count of administering a substance with intent.
Twelve co-defendants all deny various allegations involving the same woman.
Wearing a dark grey suit, blue shirt and blue tie, he broke down in tears at one point as he entered his pleas from the dock at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court and was allowed to sit down to answer the remaining charges.
His wife sat in the front row of the public gallery surrounded by family members.
A jury has been sworn in to hear the case which the prosecution is yet to open.
Assistant Chief Constable Rick Jackson, of Greater Manchester Police, said: “Our focus remains on supporting the victim of this horrific campaign of abuse through what is a very complex investigation.
“Specialist support continues to be provided to the victim at the centre of this case.
“If you are concerned you or someone you know may be affected by drug-facilitated sexual abuse, please know that you do not need proof, certainty, or a clear memory to be taken seriously.
“You are not expected to understand exactly what has happened or who was involved in order to be taken seriously. If you feel that something has happened, then please report it or ask for help.”
