A father of two has been sentenced to seven years in prison for raping and sexually assaulting a 15-year-old girl at a party. Andrew Wager, from Neath, took advantage of the teenager when she became ill during the event. Swansea Crown Court heard that the girl pretended to be asleep for most of the attack.
During the party, the girl felt unwell and went to lay down alone. It was at this moment that Wager sexually assaulted and abused her. Wager, a 38-year-old with no previous convictions, had previously been found guilty at trial of sexual assault and rape. His defence lawyer described him as a man of good character who was highly regarded by those who knew him.
Judge Geraint Walters condemned Wager’s actions, stating that he had taken advantage of a vulnerable young girl in a “dreadful” manner. The judge highlighted the lasting impact such actions can have on the victim. Wager was sentenced to seven years in prison and was also handed an indefinite sexual harm prevention order, requiring him to be a registered sexual offender for life.
Support for survivors of sexual abuse is available from various charities and organisations. Services such as Lifecentre, The National Association for People Abused in Childhood (NAPAC), and Rape Crisis England & Wales offer helplines, counselling, and advocacy for those who have experienced abuse. It is essential for victims to seek the help they need to overcome such traumatic experiences.