Anthony Lewis

Anthony Lewis, a 40-year-old man from Barry in the Vale of Glamorgan, has been sentenced to 12 years and six months imprisonment for a series of serious sexual offences. The case, heard at Cardiff Crown Court, involved the rape of an adult woman and multiple sexual assaults against a young girl under the age of 13.

The offences against the woman occurred during a particularly vulnerable period in her life, where Lewis preyed upon her trust. In a poignant victim impact statement read to the court, the woman described the profound damage inflicted by Lewis's actions. She stated that he had left her fearful of everyday activities such as shopping or going for a walk. Despite expressing gratitude to those who supported the investigation and prosecution, she emphasised that no court sentence could fully heal the hurt she had endured. She further shared her determination to help others face their abusers and find their voice, highlighting the lasting impact of the trauma.

Following the rape, Lewis went on to commit further atrocities against a young girl. He was convicted of six counts of sexual assault of a child under 13, involving inappropriate touching of the girl's breasts and genitals. Additionally, he faced one count of inciting a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity by asking her to touch his penis. These acts demonstrate a pattern of predatory behaviour targeting vulnerable individuals.

Lewis, residing on Rectory Road in Barry, has a prior conviction solely for motoring offences, indicating this was his first recorded involvement in sexual crimes. Represented by Byron Broadstock, Lewis reportedly struggled to accept the jury's verdicts. Recorder Carl Harrison, presiding over the case, imposed the lengthy custodial sentence, recognising the severity of the offences. In addition to the prison term, Lewis was made subject to an indefinite sexual harm prevention order and a restraining order to protect potential future victims.

The conviction was secured through evidence presented at trial, with the jury finding Lewis guilty on all counts. South Wales Police investigated the matters, leading to his arrest and prosecution. This case underscores the ongoing efforts by authorities in Wales to address sexual exploitation and abuse, ensuring perpetrators face justice.