A sexual predator prowled the streets of Swansea city centre, targeting lone females in a series of horrifying incidents. Within the span of an hour, Leon Payne attempted to rape two women, one of whom he threatened with a knife. Payne’s spree also included following several other women, exposing himself with his trousers down, and performing lewd acts in front of passing motorists.
The 20-year-old also assaulted a man who tried to intervene when he observed Payne’s suspicious behavior towards a female. After his arrest, Payne was handed a 16-year extended sentence as a dangerous offender by the judge at Swansea Crown Court, who described the offending as unprecedented and concerning, with no clear motive behind the attacks.
Carina Hughes, prosecuting, detailed how all of Payne’s crimes occurred in Swansea city centre in June. Payne’s actions involved targeting lone females with a sexual motive, with one victim narrowly escaping after a physical struggle where she managed to strike Payne in the face. Another victim was threatened with a knife before being sexually assaulted by Payne.
Despite attempts to fight off her attacker, the second victim was only saved when her cries for help were heard by passers-by. Payne continued his inappropriate behaviour, even exposing himself in public until he was finally identified and traced by police.
During sentencing, it was revealed that Payne had pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including attempted rape, sexual assault, exposure, and unlawful wounding. His defence lawyer acknowledged the severity of the crimes and highlighted Payne’s difficult upbringing, suggesting underlying mental health conditions.
Judge Paul Thomas KC condemned Payne’s actions as he sentenced him to an extended prison term, emphasising the chilling and unprecedented nature of the offences. The judge expressed concern over the lack of explanation for Payne’s behaviour and noted the high risk of reoffending. Payne was sentenced to 16 years, with a possibility of appeal after serving two-thirds of his custodial term, but will remain a registered sex offender for life.
In response to the case, Iwan Jenkins, deputy chief crown prosecutor for Crown Prosecution Service Cymru, commended the victims for their bravery in coming forward and helping secure a conviction against Payne. The successful prosecution ensured that Payne would face the consequences of his disturbing actions behind bars for the foreseeable future.