Stewart Read, of Gower View Road, was convicted at trial of nine counts of sexual assault. Swansea Crown Court heard he repeatedly touched two women in their 20s, both under and over their clothing, at a number of locations around Swansea.
The court was told the abuse had a profound impact on the victims. One said it had affected “every part of my life”, while the other described being left feeling “unworthy and broken” and said the trauma had led her to turn to drink and drugs.
Judge: ‘He enjoyed the power’
Sentencing, Judge Catherine Richards said it was clear from the evidence that Read had manipulated his victims and “enjoyed the power” he exerted over them.
Read, who continues to maintain his innocence, was sentenced to four and a half years in prison. He will serve two‑thirds of the term in custody before being released on licence, and will be a registered sex offender for the rest of his life.
Police: ‘A dangerous individual’
Detective Constable Sarah Cook, of South Wales Police, said:
“Stewart Read is clearly an incredibly dangerous man who repeatedly laid his hands on women in a sexual manner without their consent.
He obviously derived a sick pleasure from what he was doing, and his not guilty pleas show that there is absolutely no remorse in him.
It is absolutely right that he spends multiple years in prison. The victims have shown great courage and resilience throughout this process, and I want to thank them for coming forward and helping South Wales Police to put a dangerous individual in prison.”
Support for survivors
South Wales Police said they recognised how difficult it is for survivors of sexual abuse to speak out, but urged anyone affected not to suffer in silence.
Information and details of support services are available on the South Wales Police website.
