STEPHEN CHANT FROM TROWBRIDGE SENTENCED TO 17 YEARS FOR ATTACKS ON TEENAGE GIRLS NEAR SWINDON

In a significant case that has shocked the community of Trowbridge and the surrounding areas, Stephen Sydney Chant, a 26-year-old resident of Seymour Road in Trowbridge, has been handed down a severe prison sentence of 17 years. This sentence was issued following his conviction for a series of disturbing crimes involving attempted sexual assaults and grievous bodily harm against young women.

Chant appeared before Swindon Crown Court on July 17, where he pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including two counts of attempted rape of teenage girls, one count of sexual assault, and grievous bodily harm under Section 18. The court heard that Chant’s actions spanned over a period of time, with incidents occurring in different months and involving different victims.

The most alarming incident took place on the evening of July 25, 2022. According to court records, Chant was hiding in bushes near a footpath that runs between the railway station and Langford Road in Trowbridge. At approximately 6:30 pm, he approached a teenage girl walking along the path. Without warning, Chant ran out from his hiding spot and attacked her, hitting her over the head in an attempt to overpower her. He then attempted to carry out a sexual assault, aiming to rape her. Fortunately, the girl displayed remarkable bravery and resilience, fighting back against her attacker. Her quick response and courage were instrumental in her eventual escape from the situation.

During the proceedings, it was also revealed that Chant had committed another attempted rape in April 2022 involving a different teenage girl. Additionally, he was found guilty of sexually assaulting a young adult female in August 2021. These incidents collectively paint a disturbing picture of Chant’s pattern of predatory behavior.

The court acknowledged the seriousness of Chant’s crimes and the threat he posed to the community. As part of his sentence, he will serve 17 years in prison, followed by a five-year supervision order, which aims to monitor his conduct upon release. The judge emphasized the importance of protecting the public from individuals who commit such heinous acts, and the lengthy sentence reflects the gravity of Chant’s offenses.

The case has garnered significant attention in Trowbridge and beyond, highlighting the importance of vigilance and community safety. The bravery of the victims and the swift justice served in this case serve as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to combat violence and sexual assault in society.