Jake Richards

A teenager from Garnswllt has pleaded guilty to the rape of a 12-year-old girl, facing a significant custodial sentence following his admission at Swansea Crown Court.

Jake Richards, 18, of Lon-Y-Felin in Garnswllt, appeared before Judge Paul Thomas KC on 19th October at Swansea Crown Court. Richards, who was 17 at the time of the offence, was charged with the rape of a child. The incident is alleged to have occurred on 15th August 2023, when Richards raped the 12-year-old girl.

During the hearing, Richards entered a guilty plea to the charge. His defence barrister, Dyfed Thomas, requested an adjournment to allow for the preparation of a pre-sentence report. Thomas noted that Richards was of previous good character, with no prior convictions.

Judge Thomas warned Richards that he would face a lengthy period of detention, stating, "The report will go only to length but also to the question of dangerousness." He further emphasised to the defendant, "You are aware of what the sentence must be." As a result of the conviction, Richards will be required to register as a sex offender.

The case was adjourned, and Richards was remanded on bail. He is scheduled to return to Swansea Crown Court on 14th November 2023 for sentencing. This case was reported by the South Wales Guardian, with coverage by court and crime reporter Tom Moody.