A man has been convicted of multiple sexual offences, including raping a woman while she was asleep. The shocking crimes have rocked the quiet town of Highworth.
Daniel Smith Convicted at Swindon Crown Court
Daniel Smith, 45, from Ladywell Close, North Leigh, Oxfordshire, was found guilty by a jury of rape, sexual assault, and breaching a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO). The verdict came after a tense trial at Swindon Crown Court.
The offences took place in late 2023. On November 4, Smith attacked the victim, a woman in her 30s known to him, while she was asleep in a property in Highworth. Then, on December 9, he climbed into the same bed without consent and groped her.
Swift Police Action and Next Steps
The victim reported the attacks on December 18, 2023. Smith was arrested the same day and charged with all offences, including the SHPO breach.
Smith denied the charges, forcing the victim to endure the trauma all over again during the trial. But justice has now been served, with Smith remanded in custody ahead of sentencing in January.
Police Praise Victim’s Courage
“Firstly, I’d like to commend the victim for the bravery she has shown throughout this investigation,” said investigating officer DC Hemns.
“It has been a lengthy process to get to this point, but she has always remained supportive of the prosecution and has stayed strong, even when Smith required her to relive the trauma of the sexual offences in court under cross-examination.
“I hope that after two years, today’s verdict can give her the chance to start to heal and move forward, without this still overshadowing her everyday life.”
