Aaron Michael Kennedy

On the evening of 12 July 2019, Aaron Michael Kennedy, aged 31 and residing in Tamworth, Staffordshire, committed a sexual assault against a woman in her 30s at a supported accommodation property in Weymouth, Dorset. The victim had consumed alcohol and prescribed medication earlier that evening, rendering her unresponsive and asleep on a sofa in a communal area of the premises. Kennedy, who was also staying at the property, approached the sleeping woman, touched her face and upper body, and then proceeded to sexually assault her.

The incident was captured on CCTV footage at the property, which allowed police officers to spot the assault in real time and alert authorities immediately. Dorset Police responded promptly, arresting Kennedy at the address shortly after the event. The evidence from the CCTV played a crucial role in the investigation, leading to Kennedy's trial at Salisbury Crown Court.

Following a guilty verdict at an earlier trial, Kennedy was sentenced on 10 November 2021 to 15 months' imprisonment. In addition to the custodial sentence, he was placed on the sex offenders' register for 10 years. Police Staff Investigator Adam Carter of Dorset Police commented on the case, stating: 'Aaron Kennedy subjected his victim to a sexual assault while she was asleep and unable to consent. This must have been an extremely difficult ordeal for the victim and I want to praise her for the courage she has shown in supporting the investigation and giving evidence at court.'

The case underscores the importance of surveillance in communal living environments and the swift action by law enforcement in protecting vulnerable individuals. The assault occurred in a setting intended to provide support, highlighting the breach of trust involved. Sources for this account include the official report from Greatest Hits Radio Dorset, published on 11 November 2021, and statements from Dorset Police.