Attacker gets life for attempt to rape man
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A multiple sex attacker was jailed for life yesterday for attempting to rape a man in a case which made legal history.
Andrew Richards, 26, was the first person to be sentenced for the offence following implementation of the Criminal Justice Act last year.
Judge Richard Lowry QC said at the Old Bailey that the new law gave him greater sentencing powers to combat the growing problem of male rape.
The charge of buggery which was used previously in such cases carries a maximum sentence of 10 years. Rape or attempted rape carries a maximum sentence of life.
Richards, who has a record of sex crimes, was found guilty last month of attacking an 18-year-old man. Sentence was adjourned until yesterday for reports.
These revealed he suffered from a psychopathic personality disorder which was compounded by his use of drugs, glue and alcohol. A psychiatrist said he had a "seething mass of resentment" to anyone in authority.
His counsel, Mario Addezio, said Richards "does not care if he lives or dies".
The judge described Richards, of Neath, West Glamorgan, as "shrewd with a degree of cunning". He told him: "You are a danger to the public and children of both sexes. My first concern must be to protect the public."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments