Cardiff man given 18-year extended prison sentence for attempted rape
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Anthony Williams, 32, from Cardiff, has been given an extended sentence of 18 years imprisonment after admitting two counts of attempted rape of a female, theft and burglary.
The court heard Williams entered the home of one woman at around 5.20am and then a second home of another woman at 7am on July 10, 2021.
He was arrested within 10 minutes of the second incident being reported and on Thursday, December 2 he was sentenced at Newport Crown Court.
Detective Inspector Matt Cox, from South Wales Police, said:
“Stranger attacks such as these are extremely unusual in Cardiff but in Anthony Williams we had an extremely dangerous individual.
“Everyone has the right to feel safe in their own home and our immediate response on July 10 meant Williams was arrested within minutes of these shocking incidents.”
Williams initially made no comment but later pleaded guilty.
The strength of the evidence resulted in guilty pleas and also meant the victims did not have to give evidence in court.
“Followed his arrest, a thorough and extensive investigation, which included plotting Williams’ movements on CCTV, was carried out to ensure he could be brought to justice,” added DI Cox.
“That has now been done and we hope today’s sentencing brings some sense of closure and allows both women to regain their confidence.
“It must have been absolutely terrifying for them and they have been extremely brave throughout this ordeal.”
Williams will serve at least two-thirds of the 12-year custodial term of his sentence before he is considered for parole and will serve another six years on licence.
This investigation reflects our commitment to protecting women from violence, and to keeping our capital safe.
Tackling violence and abuse against women and girls is a long-standing priority for South Wales Police and we recognise that concern regarding personal safety and violence is as great as it has ever been.
- We encourage people to come forward to report incidents to us Contact us | South Wales Police (south-wales.police.uk)
- Read more on a new all-Wales taskforce taking action on violence against women and girls