Jake Richards, 19, sentenced to three-and-a-half years in young offenders’ institution

A 19-year-old man from Garnswllt, Carmarthenshire, has been sentenced to three years and six months in a young offender institution after admitting to raping a 12-year-old girl.

Jake Richards pleaded guilty to the offence, which occurred when he was 17, following online contact with the victim via Snapchat that led to an in-person meeting. The victim courageously reported the incident to police in August 2024 after first confiding in a friend.

Details of the offence

The pair had arranged to meet, and the victim believed they were simply going to talk. They walked to a secluded tunnel, where Richards initiated sexual activity despite the victim’s repeated verbal refusals and pleas for him to stop. He continued regardless.

A thorough investigation by Dyfed-Powys Police, involving forensic analysis (including DNA evidence) and digital enquiries (such as Snapchat records), built a strong case. This evidence contributed to Richards’ early guilty plea at Swansea Crown Court, sparing the victim the further distress of a full trial.

On Wednesday, January 21, 2026, Richards was sentenced at Swansea Crown Court.

Police commend victim’s bravery

Detective Sergeant Carl Pocock of Dyfed-Powys Police praised the victim’s extraordinary courage: “First and foremost, I want to commend the victim—who was just 12 years old at the time—for her immense bravery in coming forward and cooperating fully throughout the investigation.

“Rape and sexual abuse are incredibly difficult topics to discuss, especially for someone so young facing an offender five years her senior. She clearly and repeatedly said ‘no’ and asked him to stop, yet he ignored her to satisfy his own desires.

“Her strength continued when she disclosed the abuse to a friend and then reported it to police, ensuring justice could be pursued. Our specialist team examined her account meticulously, using DNA and digital forensics to prove the case beyond doubt. This robust evidence led to the early guilty plea and avoided the added trauma of a trial.

“It is crucial to emphasise that a child of 12 cannot legally consent to any sexual activity. This case underscores the urgent need for open conversations with young people about online safety, the law on consent, and healthy relationships—including how to recognise and assert consent, never to assume it, and what to do if it is ignored or withdrawn.”

DS Pocock added that the case demonstrates Dyfed-Powys Police’s commitment to supporting and seeking justice for victims of sexual abuse, regardless of age.

Broader implications and prevention

Cases like this highlight the risks of online interactions transitioning to real-life meetings, particularly when significant age differences and power imbalances exist. Grooming or pressure can occur subtly via social media, making early education essential.

Parents, educators, and guardians are encouraged to discuss consent, boundaries, and digital safety proactively with teenagers. Reliable guidance includes resources from organisations like the NSPCC, which offers advice on talking to young people about healthy relationships, signs of unhealthy dynamics, and understanding consent (including that it must be freely given, informed, specific, and revocable).

Support available

Anyone affected by rape or sexual assault can access specialist help. New Pathways provides dedicated support services across Wales for victims dealing with the traumatic aftermath of such offences, including counselling and practical assistance. More details are available on their website.

If you or someone you know needs immediate help, contact police on 101 (or 999 in emergencies), or reach out to support organisations directly.

This sentencing serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of sexual offending and the priority given to victim protection in the justice system.