Child Rapist David Wells Jailed for 18 Years After Jury Conviction
David Michael Wells, 47, from Chale Green, has been locked up for 18 years after a jury found him guilty of six counts of rape. The offences took place between 2017 and 2018 against a victim under 16, with police launching an investigation back in January 2020.
Jury Delivers Justice After Four and a Half Hours
Wells denied all charges, but after a trial at Newport Crown Court that started on 25 April, the jury didn’t buy it. They took just four and a half hours to convict him on 28 April. He returned to court on Friday 20 May to be sentenced, receiving 18 years behind bars plus an extra four years on extended licence.
Lifetime Sexual Harm Prevention Order Also Imposed
Alongside the prison term, Wells was slapped with a lifetime Sexual Harm Prevention Order and a restraining order to protect others from his danger.
Detective Praises Victim’s Bravery and Urges Others to Speak Out
“Wells is a danger to children who is now behind bars where he belongs,” said DC Daniel Hayward of the Child Abuse Investigation Team.
“The child in this case should be commended for her bravery in standing up to her abuser and finding the courage to talk to police. It is because of her bravery that Wells cannot harm another child.”
“I hope this case encourages others who have suffered such awful abuse to come forward and seek support.”
Support Available for Victims of Sexual Abuse
If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual abuse, help is at hand. Police can be contacted confidentially on 101. There are also specialist support services ready to offer help and advice, even if you’re not ready to speak to the police.
- Sexual abuse support services: Visit here
- Help with reporting and support for child abuse: Find out more
