…By Alan Peterson for TDPel Media.
A woman in Cardiff was subjected to a horrifying attack when a man posing as a dog owner grabbed her and tried to drag her towards bushes with the intention of sexually assaulting her.
The victim fought back and screamed for help, but the assailant threatened her, saying he would kill her if she didn’t remain silent.
The incident occurred in Bute Park on August 31 last year, and the details emerged during a recent sentencing hearing at Newport Crown Court.
The Terrifying Encounter:
According to the prosecutor, the victim encountered Dale Edey, 38, as she walked through the park around 6:30 am.
Edey approached her, claiming to be searching for a lost dog.
However, he suddenly wrapped his arms around her, forcefully kissed her, and attempted to drag her towards a secluded area of the park.
The victim resisted, screamed for help, and struggled against him.
Desperate Struggle and Threats:
During the struggle, the victim fell to the ground, and Edey pinned her down, continuing his assault.
He tried to drag her towards a hedge and nearby bushes, causing the victim to bang her head on gym equipment.
Despite Edey’s threats to kill her if she continued screaming, the victim persisted, screaming and pleading for help.
Finally, the assailant relented and left her.
Assistance and Investigation:
Following the attack, the victim managed to reach the Blackweir entrance of the park, where a kind stranger stopped to help her.
The police were called, leading to the closure of the park for investigations.
Forensic analysis of the victim’s clothes revealed DNA evidence on the waistband of her jogging bottoms, which matched Edey’s DNA profile.
Conviction and Impact:
Edey, residing on Pennsylvania Avenue in Pentwyn, was arrested on September 19.
Initially denying the charges, he later pleaded guilty to sexual assault, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and committing an offense with the intention of committing a relevant sexual offense.
His previous criminal record included 31 convictions, including assault by beating.
The victim provided a personal statement describing the profound psychological impact of the attack, including anxiety, sleep disturbances, and a fear of strangers.
Sentencing and Consequences:
During the sentencing hearing, Edey refused to leave his cell, resulting in the judge, Recorder of Cardiff Judge Tracey Lloyd-Clarke, sentencing him in his absence.
The judge emphasized the severe psychological harm inflicted on the victim and the use of violence during the attack.
Edey received a prison sentence of four years and 11 months, with an extended three years on license. He will be subject to sex offender notification requirements.
Conclusion:
The shocking incident of an attempted sexual assault in Bute Park, Cardiff, highlights the trauma and fear experienced by the victim.
The court’s decision to impose a significant prison sentence underscores the severity of the crime committed by Dale Edey.
This case serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting victims and working together to ensure the safety of communities.