ETHAN BAILY FROM CHIPPENHAM SENTENCED FOR RAPE NEAR MONKTON PARK

A man from Chippenham has been handed a four-year prison sentence after being convicted of raping a teenage girl. Ethan Baily, aged 20 and residing on Hill Rise in Chippenham, was sentenced at Swindon Crown Court on Friday, February 14. The conviction followed a trial held in October 2024, during which Baily was found guilty of the serious offence.

In addition to his prison term, Baily will be required to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life. Furthermore, he was issued a lifetime restraining order preventing him from making any contact with the victim. The incident in question took place on October 14, 2021, when Baily was just 17 years old. During that night, he assaulted and raped a 14-year-old girl on a footpath near the golf course that leads to Monkton Park, a well-known area in the vicinity of Chippenham.

Detective Constable Sam Long, who was involved in the case, expressed his condemnation of the crime, stating, “This was a cowardly and despicable act committed against a young, vulnerable teenage girl. She was violated in the worst possible way and was unable to defend herself.” He praised the victim’s bravery, noting, “The victim displayed enormous courage and resilience, which led to Ethan Baily’s successful conviction by a unanimous jury. Baily showed no remorse for his actions during the court case.”

DC Long emphasized the importance of justice and community safety, adding, “I hope today’s sentencing sends out a clear message that such crimes will not be tolerated, victims will be supported, and offenders will be brought to justice.” He also urged anyone who has experienced similar offences to come forward, assuring them that the police are ready to help. The police website provides resources and guidance on reporting rape and sexual assault, along with information about support agencies.

He acknowledged that reporting such incidents can be challenging, especially if victims are unsure about what happened or how to discuss it. Officers and partner organizations are available to listen and provide support, ensuring that victims’ information can help bring offenders to justice and protect others in the community. For those hesitant to involve the police directly, local sexual assault referral centres (SARC) offer confidential medical assistance and evidence collection services. These centres will not contact law enforcement unless the victim chooses to do so, providing a safe space for victims to seek help and support.