The face of the man who carried out a series of sex attacks in the city centre has been revealed. Leo Payne, a 20-year-old, has been handed a 16-year extended sentence as a dangerous offender for his actions in Swansea. In a distressing turn of events, within just an hour, Payne attacked and attempted to rape two women as they were walking through the city centre, and also sexually assaulted one of his victims. He pursued several other women, exposed himself with his trousers down on the streets, and even performed a sex act in front of witnesses on a busy road. Payne also assaulted a man with a bottle when he was challenged about his behaviour towards a female.
The judge at Swansea Crown Court expressed deep concern over Payne’s behaviour, stating that there seemed to be no explanation for his actions, which he described as “quite unprecedented” for Swansea and possibly other cities as well. Detective Constable Kelly Hurley of South Wales Police highlighted that Payne showed no signs of remorse for his actions and posed an “incredible danger to others”. Victim impact statements shared in court detailed the anxiety and fear experienced by Payne’s victims, expressing how they no longer feel safe in the city centre.
Carina Hughes, the prosecutor, revealed that all of Payne’s offences occurred in June this year in Swansea city centre, where he targeted lone females for his attacks. Payne’s motivation was found to be sexual in nature. One of the victims managed to fight off Payne during a terrifying encounter on College Street, with the help of taxi marshals who intervened. However, Payne went on to commit another assault on a lone woman on Princess Way shortly after, using threats and violence during the attack. Onlookers intervened, leading to Payne fleeing the scene.
Despite being disturbed multiple times, Payne continued his disturbing behaviour, which included indecent exposure and sexual gestures towards women. A passer-by who witnessed Payne’s concerning actions in an alleyway was attacked by Payne when confronted about his behaviour. The police investigation eventually led to Payne’s arrest at a property in Swansea, where he initially provided a false name before revealing his true identity.
During sentencing, Payne, who pleaded guilty to multiple charges including attempted rape and sexual assault, was described by his defence as having a troubled childhood and potential mental health issues. The judge handed down a 16-year extended sentence to Payne, emphasizing the seriousness of his offences and deeming him a high risk for reoffending. Payne will be a registered sex offender for life and can appeal for release after serving two-thirds of his custodial sentence, subject to parole board review.
Following the sentencing, Iwan Jenkins, deputy Chief Crown Prosecutor for Crown Prosecution Service Cymru, condemned Payne’s actions as a “campaign of terrifying sexual attacks and violent offences.” He commended the victims for their bravery and cooperation, which led to a successful prosecution in partnership with South Wales Police. Payne’s disturbing crimes have left a lasting impact on the victims and the community, prompting calls for support services for survivors of sexual abuse to ensure they receive the assistance they need.