Man sentenced for attempting to rape two women in Swansea city centre

A 20-year-old man who attacked two women in Swansea city centre has been sentenced to over 11 years’ imprisonment at Swansea Crown Court.

Leo Payne assaulted the first woman on the Strand in the early hours of 23 June 2024. The victim managed to fight him off before Payne was chased away with his trousers down by two taxi marshalls in the area.

About 40 minutes later, Payne attacked a second woman on Orchard Street and sexually assaulted her whilst trying to open his trousers. Again, he was fought off by the victim who shouted for help from two members of the public.

A motorist on Walter Road saw Payne an hour and a half later, where he had his trousers down and was performing a sexual act.

Payne later assaulted a man near the Wallich by hitting him multiple times with a wine bottle, with one of the blows hitting the man on the head, causing injury.

Iwan Jenkins, Deputy Chief Crown Prosecutor for CPS Cymru-Wales, said: “Leo Payne prowled the city centre carrying out a campaign of terrifying sexual attacks and violent offences.

“His victims fought back and thanks to their efforts we were able to work with South Wales Police to bring a successful prosecution which will see Payne spending time behind bars for his sick crimes.”

Leo Payne was sentenced to 11 years and three months’ imprisonment which was extended with a four years and nine months’ license period on 20 September 2024 including a requirement to register as a sex offender indefinitely.