Prolific paedophile tried to sexually assault teen while cycling – Wales Online
A 57-year-old man, Carl Badham, made an attempt to sexually assault a 13-year-old girl while passing her on his bicycle on the Taff Trail in Cardiff. The disturbing incident took place last year and left the victim feeling “upset and self-conscious”. Badham, who has a history of 29 previous convictions, including indecent assault of a child under 16 and attempted rape, grabbed the victim’s wrist as she walked with another teenage girl. The assault occurred on a public footpath in Cardiff’s Bute Park. The recent sentencing hearing at Cardiff Crown Court revealed that Badham was found guilty of attempted sexual assault following a trial. His criminal record also includes a similar sexual assault committed while riding his bike.
During a victim personal statement read by the prosecutor, Bethan Evans, the victim expressed the emotional impact of the assault, stating, “Since the incident involving the defendant, I have been upset and self-conscious.” She further shared her struggles with confidence and safety measures taken post-incident, such as not going out alone and always being accompanied by friends or family. Despite the traumatic experience of going to court, she remains determined and hopeful to move past the ordeal. Badham’s defence barrister offered limited mitigation, as the perpetrator continues to deny the offence, claiming it to be a case of “mistaken identity”.
In a decisive judgment, Judge Shomon Khan sentenced Badham to two years of imprisonment, along with a four-year extended licence period. The ruling stipulated that Badham must serve two-thirds of his sentence in custody before being eligible for parole consideration. The severity of the assault and the impact on the victim’s life were crucial factors in determining the sentence. The victim’s resilience and determination to overcome the trauma were acknowledged and commended during the legal proceedings.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges and threats posed by individuals with a history of sexual offences. The courage displayed by the victim in coming forward and facing the perpetrator in court highlights the importance of seeking justice and ensuring accountability for such reprehensible actions. The sentencing reflects the commitment of the judicial system to protect the community and hold offenders accountable for their crimes.
As the victim continues her healing process and adjusts to life post-assault, support from loved ones and professional services will be instrumental in her recovery journey. The case also underscores the need for ongoing vigilance and preventive measures to safeguard vulnerable individuals from potential harm. By raising awareness and fostering a culture of accountability, communities can work together to create safer environments for all members, particularly those most susceptible to exploitation and abuse.
The sentencing of Carl Badham sends a strong message that acts of sexual assault and exploitation will not be tolerated, and perpetrators will be held accountable for their actions. It is crucial for authorities, community members, and support services to work collaboratively in providing protection, advocacy, and justice for survivors of such traumatic experiences. The resilience and courage of the victim in this case serve as a testament to the strength of individuals in overcoming adversity and seeking justice in the face of injustice.