A MAN who attempted to rape a woman and her four-year-old daughter whilst they were on a family walk has been sentenced to 16 years in prison.

Anthony Williams, 43, of Hill Street, Haverfordwest attacked the woman during an incident on a cycle path in May.

Swansea Crown Court heard the attack happened during the day. Williams admitted attempted rape of a woman over 18 and of a girl under 13.

An extension of eight years on his licence was also imposed. 

Robin Rouch, prosecuting, said the woman, a mother-of-two, was told to undress otherwise the children would be harmed.

After attempting to rape the mother, he made her remove clothing from the four-year-old, and tried to rape her.

Williams also threatened to throw another child in the river.

The court heard that Williams had a drink problem, spending excessive amounts of money on alcohol.

Judge Geraint Walters said that the case was truly disturbing and Williams had submitted the woman and her child to a life-changing ordeal.

After the hearing, Michael Jenkins of the Crown Prosecution service, described the incident as a “truly despicable crime”.

He added: “No one should have to face what the victims were put through. The mother showed great courage in doing all that she could to minimise the harm to her children.”

Dyfed-Powys Police received a call at just before 4.50pm on May 17 from a man who had come across a highly distressed woman on the cycle path between Haverfordwest and Tiers Cross.

Officers swiftly attended, and the woman reported that a stranger had attempted to rape her and her young daughter – making threats if they did not comply – before leaving the area.

A team of detectives immediately searched the area to secure any evidence linked to the offence or a potential suspect, and later arrested a man matching the description given to officers.

Enquiries established DNA links between the adult victim and Williams.

Detective Chief Inspector Cameron Ritchie said: “Dyfed-Powys Police welcomes this sentence. It is the result of an extensive police operation that gave Williams little option but to plead guilty.

“This was a horrific attack, during which the defendant tried multiple times to rape a mother and her very young child. For the mother in particular, it was a terrifying experience – not only going through the trauma of being assaulted herself, but to see her daughter being treated in this despicable way.

“I would like to thank the victims and their family for the bravery and dignity they have shown during our investigation.  I would also like to thank the members of the public who assisted the victims at the time and who assisted the police investigation.  Their assistance was invaluable.

“I now hope this sentence gives the victims the justice they deserve, and hopefully some closure to move on with their lives.

“Dyfed-Powys Police will not tolerate violence against women and girls and hopefully the outcome in this case will give confidence to victims to come forward.  We will take you seriously and support you as we work to bring offenders to justice.”