EditorAmmanford teen jailed after raping 12‑year‑old girl he met on Snapchat
Jake Richards was 17 at the time of the offence, which happened after he and the girl exchanged messages on Snapchat before meeting in person. Swansea Crown Court heard the victim thought they were going to talk as they walked to a secluded tunnel — but Richards initiated sex and continued even after she repeatedly told him to stop.
The girl reported what happened in August 2024 after confiding in a friend. Police launched a detailed investigation involving forensic and digital evidence, which led to Richards being charged with rape. He later pleaded guilty.
He was sentenced today (Wednesday, January 21) to three years and six months in a young offender’s institution.
Police praise victim’s bravery
Detective Sergeant Carl Pocock of Dyfed‑Powys Police said the victim had shown “remarkable courage” in coming forward.
He said officers carried out a thorough investigation, with DNA and digital evidence helping secure an early guilty plea and sparing the girl the trauma of a trial.
DS Pocock added that the case highlighted the importance of talking to young people about online safety, the law around consent, and what to do if someone continues sexual activity without consent.
He said specialist officers would “listen to, support and seek justice for victims of all ages”.
Detective Sergeant Carl Pocock, Dyfed‑Powys Police, said:
“Firstly, I would like to commend the victim, who was just 12 years old when this offence happened, for her courage in coming forward and for her cooperation throughout the investigation.
“Rape, or any form of sexual abuse, is incredibly difficult to talk about, especially at such a young age, and she showed remarkable bravery in saying no when she felt uncomfortable and in later reporting what happened.
“Our specialist officers explored her account thoroughly, and forensic and digital evidence helped secure an early guilty plea, sparing her the additional trauma of a trial.
“This case highlights the importance of talking to young people about staying safe online, understanding consent, and knowing what to do if someone continues sexual activity despite a lack of consent.
“We want victims of all ages to know that we will listen, support them and seek justice.”
Related stories from Swansea Bay News
Teen who researched how to carry out a terror attack jailed
Police uncovered disturbing online activity that led to the teen being jailed after a major investigation.
Waunarlwydd man jailed for online child sex offences
A decade-long sentence was handed down after officers traced a series of serious online offences.
Newcastle Emlyn father jailed for 35 years after shocking attack
A father received one of Wales’ longest sentences after a violent assault on his infant child.
Tumble man jailed for child sex offences
The offender was jailed for more than ten years following a detailed police investigation.
