20-year-old Leo Payne, from Bonymaen, was convicted of two counts of attempted rape against two separate victims, as well as one count each of sexual assault, indecent exposure, and GBH.
The sentencing at Swansea Crown Court heard how Payne assaulted the first woman on the Strand in the early hours of 23 June, 2024.
The victim was able to fight him off, before he was chased away with his trousers down by two taxi marshals in the area.
Around 40 minutes later, Payne attacked a second woman on Orchard Street. He sexually assaulted her whilst trying to open his trousers. He was fought off by the victim, who shouted for help from two passing members of the public.
An hour and a half later, a motorist reported seeing Payne on Walter Road with his trousers down whilst he was performing a sexual act.
Payne later assaulted a man near the Wallich, hitting him multiple times with a wine bottle, with one of the blows causing a head injury.
He has this week been handed an extended sentence of 16 years in prison, of which 11 years and three months is custodial.
Detective Constable Kelly Hurley said:
“Leo Payne preyed upon his victims while they were alone and vulnerable in Swansea city centre.
“His repeated offending shows that he was an incredible danger to others, and there were no signs of any remorse for his actions.
“I would like to pay tribute to his victims for their bravery in coming forward to report Leo Payne’s actions.
“They will all be dealing with the unimaginable traumatic effects of his crimes for a long time, but hopefully this sentencing will offer some reassurance that he will no longer be on the streets.”
Guidance on how to report a rape, sexual assault or other sexual offence can be found here: How to report rape, sexual assault or other sexual offences | South Wales Police (south-wales.police.uk)
[Lead image: South Wales Police]
