Jordan Richards, 35, has been sentenced to 21 years in prison, with an additional four-year extension, for dozens of sex offenses against a teenage girl, including rape and the production of over 600 indecent images of the same child. The offenses occurred near Ammanford, Carmarthenshire, between 2012 and 2016.
Richards initially pleaded not guilty but changed his plea to guilty on all counts on the second day of his trial at Swansea Crown Court. Judge Huw Rees described Richards as "cruel and isolating," stating that he took pleasure in creating images that demonstrated his "lustful and filthy attitude" toward the victim.
The charges included multiple counts of assault by penetration, oral rape, and vaginal rape against the victim when she was between 15 and 17 years old. He was also convicted of engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child aged 13 to 15 and producing over 600 indecent images of children.
Dyfed-Powys Police stated that the survivor welcomed the sentencing and expressed gratitude for the force's dedication and support throughout the trial. In a statement issued on her behalf, the survivor emphasized the importance of encouraging others to come forward, saying, "We are not victims, we are survivors."
Detective Sergeant Carl Pocock highlighted the survivor's bravery in reporting the abuse, noting the "immense courage" it took after enduring "abhorrent sexual abuse." He expressed hope that the conviction would bring a sense of justice and peace to the survivor, enabling her to move forward with her life. Pocock also aimed to encourage other survivors to come forward, assuring them that justice can be served regardless of the time elapsed.