Penydarren man guilty of sexual assault is jailed for 8 years

Paul Thomas, 45, was sentenced to eight years in prison at Cardiff Crown Court last month. He was also put on the sex offenders register for life and given an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order.

Following a four-day trial, a jury found Thomas guilty of assault by penetration.

In April 2021, Thomas sexually assaulted a woman while she was asleep. Within hours of the offence, Thomas was arrested and was charged after a thorough investigation.

Detective Constable Matt Pryce said:

“I am pleased Thomas will go to jail for a significant period, the sentence is welcomed as it displays a clear message that such acts will not be tolerated.

“This was a horrific ordeal for the woman, but she, with the support of her family, has shown immense strength and courage in coming forward and supporting a police investigation. I would like to thank the brave victim for her strength, I hope the conviction goes some way to providing closure after what must have been a horrific ordeal.

“South Wales Police encourages anyone who is victim or witness to sexual assault, to contact us- there is zero tolerance for such serious offences.”

Help, advice and support can be sought from specialist Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs). Visit http://www.newpathways.org.uk/ or https://cavuhb.nhs.wales/our-services/sexual-health/services-provided/ynys-saff-sexual-assault-referral-centre/ for more information.