NEWS UPDATE
27-year-old man jailed for raping sleeping woman.
Aaron Smith, of Dukinfield, Tameside, Greater Manchester, was sentenced to six years and four months for rape at Cardiff Crown Court on Friday (November 16).
He pleaded guilty at an earlier hearing.
The assault took place at Herofest, a live action role play (LARP) event in Candlestone Campsite, Merthyr Mawr, Bridgend, on September 29, 2017.
The court heard Smith raped the woman when she was asleep in a tent at the campsite.
In a victim personal statement read in court, the woman said:
“This event has affected me in many ways and my quality of life has greatly decreased.”
She said she now has regular panic attacks and suffers with post-traumatic stress disorder.
The victim added:
“I don’t remember what it’s like to fall asleep and not be afraid.”
Detective Constable Gareth Holmes, officer in the case, said:
“Aaron Smith’s actions have had a devastating and lasting impact on the victim, I hope this sentence provides some closure and comfort for her as she attempts to move forward with her life.
“I would like to commend her for showing immense strength and courage throughout the investigation and court process in order to ensure Smith was brought to justice.
“I cannot imagine how difficult it must be to come forward to report sexual abuse but I want to reassure anyone considering doing so that there is a whole range of support out there, not only from the police but from partner agencies who can help you through the entire process.”
Sexual abuse can be reported via 101, or to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Alternatively, help, advice and support can be sought from Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARC). Visit http://thesurvivorstrust.org/sarc/ or contact 02920 335795.
Help keep news FREE for our readers
Supporting your local community newspaper/online news outlet is crucial now more than ever. If you believe in independent journalism, then consider making a valuable contribution by making a one-time or monthly donation. We operate in rural areas where providing unbiased news can be challenging. Read More About Supporting The West Wales Chronicle
