Predator Sentenced: Morgan Kemble, 20, from Brackla, Bridgend, has been locked up for four years after sexually assaulting a homeless woman in broad daylight on a busy Cardiff street.
Chilling Daytime Attack on Vulnerable Victim
Kemble targeted the homeless woman as she sat wrapped in a sleeping bag outside a shop. Courts heard how he approached with the creepy line, “Beautiful, what are you doing?” then draped his arm around her and, despite her attempts to pull away, sexually assaulted her by groping beneath the sleeping bag.
Passersby intervened after the victim shouted for help. Police arrested Kemble on the scene and later bailed him pending investigation.
Flouts Court Orders & Commits More Crimes
After being bailed, Kemble brazenly broke a non-molestation order by sneaking into his parents’ home, claiming he felt suicidal. His family, fearing him, let him stay.
Two days later, suspicious spending of £76.83 was made on his mother’s bank card. Doorbell footage showed Kemble using a key he’d been told to return to get inside. He now faces charges of:
- Breach of non-molestation order
- Fraud by false representation
- Burglary
- Sexual assault
Lengthy Record and Harsh Sentence
Kemble admitted all charges. The court revealed he has eight prior convictions, including robbery, criminal damage, and shoplifting.
Judge Richard Harrington slammed Kemble’s “predatory” conduct, highlighting the trauma inflicted on an already vulnerable homeless woman.
Kemble received three years for past crimes plus one year for the recent offences, serving four years consecutively in a young offenders’ institute.
Community Outraged, Calls for Better Protection
The victim, unnamed for legal reasons, described the assault as “deeply traumatic,” making her feel even less safe on the streets.
“This was a horrific and predatory attack on a vulnerable member of our community,” said Detective Inspector Sarah Rees of South Wales Police. “Thanks to the victim’s bravery, Kemble is now off the streets and can’t harm anyone else.”
Advocates demand stronger safeguards for homeless people, especially women at risk of violence and sexual assault. Laura Jenkins from Cardiff’s Homelessness Outreach said:
“No one should endure what this woman went through, especially in public spaces where safety should be guaranteed.”
How You Can Help
If you witness suspicious behaviour or need support, contact:
- Rape Crisis England & Wales: 0808 802 9999
- South Wales Police (non-emergency): 101
- Emergency: Always dial 999
Support local charities like The Wallich and Shelter Cymru, who help safeguard and assist homeless people.
Kemble will remain behind bars until at least 2029 before possible parole.
