In a dramatic turn following the sentencing of Tom Silvagni to more than six years in prison for rape, the victim has come forward with an emotional public statement, alleging she received an unexpected and distressing message from the convicted rapist’s family just moments after the verdict was delivered in court.

The 23-year-old Silvagni, son of AFL legend Stephen Silvagni and television personality Jo Silvagni, was handed a sentence of six years and two months on December 17, 2025, with a non-parole period of three years and three months. He was convicted earlier this month of two counts of digital rape against a woman in a dark bedroom at his family’s Melbourne home in January 2024.

Speaking to reporters outside the courthouse on December 20, 2025, the victim, whose identity remains protected by law, tearfully recounted the alleged incident that has reignited public outrage amid the high-profile case. “They actually reached out to me right after the judge’s decision,” she said, her voice trembling. Sources close to the matter indicate the message was perceived as insensitive, further compounding the trauma for the survivor who has already described the assault as haunting her “every single day.”

The revelation has fueled widespread backlash on social media and in public discourse, with many questioning the timing and nature of any communication from Silvagni’s family. The Silvagni family has maintained strong support for Tom, previously stating they believe in his innocence and are considering an appeal. They have declined to comment on the latest allegations.

Background of the Case: A Night of Deception and Betrayal

The incident stemmed from a casual gathering on January 13, 2024, at the Silvagni family’s luxurious home in Balwyn North, Melbourne. Tom Silvagni hosted friends, including his then-girlfriend Alannah Iaconis and another couple. After a day of drinking, the group retired to separate rooms.

The victim, who had a brief relationship with Silvagni’s friend Anthony LoGiudice (son of former Carlton president Mark LoGiudice), had consensual sex with her boyfriend before he left in an Uber around 2 a.m. Court documents reveal that Silvagni then entered the darkened bedroom, pretending to be the woman’s boyfriend by spooning her from behind.

He proceeded to digitally rape her twice—first while maintaining the deception, and a second time while restraining her arms despite her protests to stop. The victim realized it was Silvagni when she touched his hair, which was longer than her boyfriend’s. She confronted him, saying “stop Tom, I know it’s you,” prompting him to flee the room.

In a bid to cover his tracks, Silvagni admitted to forging an Uber receipt to falsely suggest the boyfriend had remained at the house longer, creating an alibi. Prosecutors described this as “callous and deceptive” conduct, which Judge Greg Lyon highlighted during sentencing as adding to the seriousness of the offenses.

The jury rejected Silvagni’s defense that he had been falsely accused, finding him guilty on December 5, 2025, after a two-week trial. A lengthy suppression order had kept his identity hidden for over a year, citing risks to his mental health, but it was lifted shortly after the verdict.

Victim’s Courageous Stand and Lasting Trauma

During a pre-sentence hearing, the victim delivered a powerful impact statement directly addressing Silvagni via video link from prison. “Tom Silvagni, you raped me. Not once, but twice,” she said, fighting back tears. She described the assault as “calculated and evil,” noting how it shattered her trust, friendships, and sense of safety.

The trauma has been profound: nightmares, post-traumatic stress, and a daily reminder of the violation. “That moment haunts me every single day,” she told the court. Judge Lyon praised her “courage and integrity,” acknowledging the seismic changes to her life and the difficulty survivors face in recovery.

Days after the sentencing, the victim issued another statement expressing gratitude for public support and hope that her case inspires other survivors. However, the latest claim of a post-verdict message from Silvagni’s family has added a new layer of distress, with advocates calling it a potential intimidation tactic, though no formal complaints have been confirmed.

Sentencing Details and Judicial Remarks

Judge Lyon described Silvagni’s actions as “egregious, callous, and marked by planning, cunning, and strategy.” He noted the lack of remorse, with Silvagni continuing to deny the crimes despite overwhelming evidence.

While acknowledging Silvagni’s diagnosed depression and the added burden of media scrutiny on his prominent family, the judge emphasized that rehabilitation requires insight—something absent here. The sentence falls within typical ranges for such offenses, with rape carrying a maximum of 25 years.

Silvagni’s parents, Stephen and Jo, were present for the sentencing but left quickly, avoiding media questions. Jo reportedly told a reporter to “go away.” The family has faced criticism for not attending the victim’s impact statement reading and for publicly supporting their son’s innocence claims.

Public Reaction and Broader Implications

The case has gripped Australia, blending elements of celebrity, sport, and sexual assault in a nation still grappling with high-profile misconduct allegations in AFL circles. Social media has exploded with debates over privilege, accountability, and victim support.

Supporters of the victim have hailed her bravery, while some online trolls have targeted her—prompting calls for stronger protections. One sexual assault survivor highlighted double standards in how male and female victims are treated when speaking out.

Legal experts note the suppression order battle underscores tensions between open justice and mental health concerns. Media outlets fought vigorously to lift the gag, arguing it created perceptions of favoritism for the well-connected Silvagni name—a dynasty spanning generations in Australian rules football.

As Silvagni begins his sentence, potentially eligible for parole in 2029, the victim’s latest disclosure ensures the story remains far from over. Her decision to speak publicly, despite ongoing pain, underscores a growing movement for survivors to reclaim their narratives.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the lasting impact of sexual violence and the challenges in achieving justice, even in the spotlight. Support services remain available for those affected, emphasizing that no one should suffer in silence.