Rapist who took advantage of sleeping woman jailed

A detective has praised the strength of a rape victim after her abuser was jailed for 16 years.

In November, Daniel Smith, 45, of Ladywell Close, North Leigh, Oxfordshire, was found guilty by jury of rape, sexual assault and breaching his Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO).

The court had heard how on November 4, 2023, Smith had raped the victim – a woman in her 30s who was known to him – inside a property in Highworth while she was sleeping.

On December 9, 2023, Smith again targeted the victim, climbing into the same bed with her against her consent and groping her.

The offences were reported to the police on December 18, 2023, and Smith was arrested the same day.

He was subsequently charged and found guilty of the offences, as well as for breaching the conditions of his SHPO.

At Swindon Crown Court on Friday (23/01), Smith was sentenced to 16 years imprisonment – 11 years custodial and then five years on extended licence.

In his comments, Judge Taylor said the sentence was increased due to the aggravating factors of alcohol and multiple previous convictions which were disturbingly similar to this offence.

He added that Smith was a dangerous offender and continued to represent a serious risk of harm to members of the public.

Investigating officer DC Hemns said: “The victim in this case has shown incredible bravery, strength and courage throughout this case, particularly as Smith forced her to relive the trauma through a trial.

“I hope now the legal proceedings have concluded that she can begin to heal and move on from this shadow hanging over her.

“Smith is a predatory individual who has previous convictions for this kind of crime.

“I’m pleased the judge recognised the severity of his offending and gave him a lengthy custodial sentence. He also remains on the Sex Offender’s Register and subject to a SHPO indefinitely.”

If you’ve been the victim of rape, sexual assault, or any other sexual offence, please report it to us as soon as possible.

Even if you’re not 100 per cent sure, we want to hear from you so that we can make sure you’re safe.

If you’re not ready to talk to the police just yet, that’s OK.

Follow this link here - Rape, sexual assault and other sexual offences | Wiltshire Police to find out what other organisations can help and support you.

You can find your nearest Sexual Assault referral Centre here: Swindon & Wiltshire - First Light