Mark Jones

In December 2022, Mark Jones, a 34-year-old resident of Radley Bottom in Hungerford, West Berkshire, committed a predatory sexual assault against a sleeping woman. Jones snuck into the victim's bedroom, hid beside her bed, and assaulted her by penetration while she lay asleep and unable to consent. This calculated act demonstrated deliberate deceit and a lack of regard for the victim's vulnerability.

The incident came to light following a report to Thames Valley Police, leading to Jones's arrest and subsequent prosecution. Earlier this year, a four-day trial took place at Reading Crown Court, where a jury unanimously found Jones guilty of one count of sexual assault by penetration. The evidence presented highlighted the non-consensual nature of the offence, underscoring Jones's predatory intent.

On 10 October 2024, Jones appeared for sentencing at Reading Crown Court. He received a custodial sentence of two years' imprisonment and was placed on the sex offenders' register for 10 years. Detective Constable Daniel Pullen of Thames Valley Police commended the victim's bravery in reporting the crime and staying engaged throughout the investigation, describing her strength as admirable in the face of trauma. Pullen further characterised Jones's actions as 'calculated and predatory', emphasising the force's commitment to holding such offenders accountable and protecting women and girls from harm.

This case, reported by the Reading Chronicle, serves as a stark reminder of the importance of community vigilance and police determination in securing justice for sexual assault victims. Thames Valley Police reiterated their serious approach to such reports, encouraging anyone affected to come forward.