Peter Richardson, a former landlord of the Rat Trap pub in Swindon, has been sentenced for sexually assaulting a 15-year-old girl. This incident occurred in October 2022, and a trial at Swindon Crown Court took place in February 2023.
Details of the Assault
During the trial, evidence was presented that Richardson approached the teenage girl outside the pub. He engaged in inappropriate behavior, including putting fast-food packaging up her top and groping her breast. The victim, who is now 19, described his remarks about enjoying the view of her breasts and making lewd comments about her personal life.
Court Proceedings
- Trial Duration: Three days
- Trial Date: February 2023
- Incident Date: October 2022
- Victim’s Age at Time of Assault: 15
Richardson, now 62, testified during the trial that he could barely remember the victim and claimed he would never engage in inappropriate touching. In a police interview in June 2023, he reiterated that it was not his character to behave in such a manner.
Impact on the Victim
The victim provided a poignant testimony, becoming emotional while recounting her experience. She reported feeling uncomfortable around older men since the assault. Her mother supported her during the trial as she gave evidence behind a screen to ensure her privacy.
CCTV Footage Absence
Notably, CCTV footage from the pub would have captured the incidents, but Wiltshire Police acknowledged that the footage was only retained for six weeks and was not secured during that timeframe.
Sentencing Outcomes
On April 23, 2023, Judge Townsend sentenced Richardson to an 18-month community order. This includes 30 rehabilitation activity sessions. Despite the prosecution seeking a sexual harm prevention order, the judge decided it was unnecessary since Richardson would be referred to the disclosure and barring service.
- Community Order Duration: 18 months
- Rehabilitation Sessions: 30
- Time on Sex Offender’s Register: 5 years
While the judge recognized the seriousness of Richardson’s actions, he noted that there was no imminent threat to young people. Richardson plans to relocate to Oaklands Camblesforth in York, citing severe mental health impacts following the trial.
Judge Townsend concluded that cooperating with the probation service would be crucial for Richardson as he moves forward after the court case.
