Woman Jailed for Faking Horrific Rape Claim in Swindon
Sophie James, 26, from Walcot, pleaded guilty to perverting the course of justice after making a false rape report in August 2019. She claimed a takeaway delivery driver forced his way into her home and attacked her.
Police Uncover Web of Lies
Detective Constable Chris Hughes said officers took the claim seriously and launched a thorough investigation. However, James was uncooperative and obstructive from the start.
“Further enquiries proved James had fabricated the entire story,” said DC Hughes. “The alleged attacker was actually in bristol/" title="Bristol" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Bristol at the time.”
False Accusation Sparks Stress and Outrage
DC Hughes added, “This kind of behaviour is completely unacceptable. The innocent man was grilled under caution and faced a police probe, causing him huge stress.”
He warned James’ lies risk harming genuine victims of sexual assault, who might hesitate to come forward for fear of disbelief.
“We take all reports seriously and urge anyone affected to report offences to police, no matter how long ago they occurred,” he said.
Sentence and Penalty
James was sentenced to 14 months in prison and must pay a £149 victim surcharge for wasting police time and causing distress.
