GAERTH DRUCE SENTENCED IN CAERNARFON FOR RAPE IN BLAENAU FFESTINIOG
A man who pretended to assist a woman before later attacking her has been convicted and sentenced.Gareth Druce, 33, of Church Street, Blaenau Ffestiniog, followed a woman who was visibly unwell after drinking.
Although another man was helping her walk home and struggling to keep her on her feet, Druce approached her and offered assistance.
During the sentencing at Caernarfon Crown Court on Monday, it was revealed that Druce initially appeared to help the woman but then entered her home, took her keys, and left with her.
Later that night, he returned alone and raped her while she was in no condition to consent.
CCTV footage was crucial in the case, showing Druce returning to the victim's house alone, which was pivotal in securing his conviction.
The footage also depicted his suspicious behaviour in the hours before the attack, where he was observed observing and following lone women.
Additionally, authorities found that Druce had committed a sexual assault on another woman two months earlier.
He was found guilty of rape after a seven-day trial and pleaded guilty to the earlier sexual assault charge.
Recorder I Jones sentenced Druce to 12 years in prison, with an extended licence period of four years, citing his status as a dangerous offender.
He was also ordered to comply with sex offender notification requirements, a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, and two restraining orders.
Ceri Ellis-Jones of the Crown Prosecution Service commented, 'There could be no suggestion that the victim would have been in any position to give her consent to sexual activity.
The defendant deliberately targeted the victim who was vulnerable and, under the pretence of helping her, was able to enter her property.
The police built a strong case against Druce using CCTV and digital evidence.
By working together, we were able to secure justice for the victim.'
