Teenage boy raped girl, 12, in secluded tunnel after meeting online | UK | News
Jake Richards pleads guilty to raping a 12-year-old boy (Image: Dyfed-Powys Police)
A teenager has been sentenced to prison after pleading guilty to raping a 12-year-old girl in a secluded tunnel. Police said the victim “begged” Jake Richards to stop the attack.
The 19-year-old, from Garnswllt, north of the Swansea valleys, had been talking to the girl, who is five years his junior, via Snapchat before meeting in person. Police said Richards instigated sexual intercourse in the tunnel and continued after the victim told him “no” several times. The victim told officers he thought they were there to talk.
Detective Sergeant Carl Pocock, of Dyfed-Powys Police, praised the victim for his “bravery”.
He said: “Firstly, I would like to congratulate the victim, who was only 12 years old when this crime was committed, for her bravery in coming forward to report this crime and her co-operation during the subsequent investigation.
“It’s not easy to talk about rape, or any sexual abuse, and it must have been incredibly scary for her, especially at such a young age.
“Despite being confronted by someone five years her senior, she took the right steps by saying no when she was unhappy with the situation, begging Richards to stop, but Richards continued on without meeting his own needs.
“He continued to show his courage as he discussed the crime, first with a friend and then reporting it to the police so action could be taken.
“Our expert staff thoroughly investigated the victim’s account and helped prove the case through DNA and digital forensic evidence. The strength of this evidence undoubtedly resulted in an early admission of guilt and spared the victim the additional trauma of having the case go to court.”
The victim reported the assault to police in August 2024.
Richards, who was 17 at the time of the crime, was charged with rape following what police described as a “lengthy investigation”.
He admitted the offense when he appeared at Swansea Crown Court and was sentenced to three years and six months in a young offenders’ institution on Wednesday.
Detective Sergeant Pocock added: “I think it is important to highlight that the victim of this case was unable to consent due to his age, and this case highlights the vital importance of talking to young people about staying safe online, the law and consent. This includes how to consent, how not to consent and what to do if someone continues with sexual activity despite the lack of consent.”
“I also hope this case shows that our specialist officers will listen, support and seek justice for victims of all ages who may be subjected to sexual abuse.”
