Dylan Sims, 21, from St Mary’s Wantage, was tried at Oxford Crown Court in May.
On May 8, the jury delivered a unanimous verdict, finding him guilty of two counts of rape and one count of sexual assault on a female. He was found not guilty of one count of rape.
Although Sims denied the charges, he previously admitted guilt to two counts related to the supply of cocaine and one count involving the supply of cannabis, in the same court on April 25 of this year.
Friends, family of Sims, and the victims attended the sentencing on Tuesday, June 24. During the proceedings, it was emphasized that Sims poses a ‘high risk of causing harm’ to the public, particularly women.
The trial revealed that Sims and one of the victims first encountered each other in May 2021 while working together in Wantage. One incident reportedly occurred on a park bench in the area.
The victim, 17 at the time, shared that Sims led her to a secluded alleyway behind a shop. Despite feeling apprehensive, she followed. In her court interview, she recounted how Sims assaulted her.
They met weekly from May to December, with multiple incidents occurring during that time. The second woman involved detailed an experience where she and a friend met Sims to acquire drugs after a night out on July 29, 2022.
She claimed that Sims joined them at their apartment, where they consumed drugs and socialized. She later awoke to find Sims assaulting her.
Sims was apprehended for these offences in August 2023 and was interviewed by police twice under caution. During the trial, he confessed to misleading officers during these interviews.
At the sentencing, impactful statements from the victims were presented, highlighting the profound emotional and psychological effects of Sims’ actions. One victim described the ‘haunting memories’ while the other shared feeling utterly devastated.
Judge Ian Pringle addressed Sims, stating: “I find you to be dangerous.” Sims received a concurrent extended sentence totaling 13 years, including numerous charges related to rape and drug supply.
A restraining order was enforced, and as the sentences were publicly announced, the victims’ families, protected by privacy screens, were moved to tears. Judge Pringle concluded by emphasizing the ‘devastating impact’ on the victims, urging Sims to remember the damage inflicted.
For those in Wantage and the surrounding areas, engaging in local activities or creating a free business profile can be a positive way to connect with the community. Learn more about these opportunities here.
