Predator Exploits Intoxicated Woman’s Vulnerability to Commit Heinous Crime

In a disturbing act of deceit, Gareth Druce, a 33-year-old from Blaenau Ffestiniog, manipulated the vulnerability of an intoxicated woman by pretending to assist her home, only to steal her keys and later return to commit rape. The victim, impaired by alcohol and struggling to walk, was initially being aided by another man when Druce intervened, offering his help under the guise of goodwill, by “wale online“

Once inside the woman’s home, Druce seized the opportunity to pocket her house keys, a move that enabled him to re-enter her residence under the cover of night and perpetrate the vile act. Critical CCTV footage revealed Druce making his way back to the victim’s house alone, providing irrefutable evidence that contributed significantly to his conviction. Additional footage exposed Druce’s predatory behavior earlier that night, as he was seen observing and tailing lone women.

The court also learned of Druce’s previous misconduct, where he had sexually assaulted another woman two months prior to this incident. After a seven-day trial, Druce was found guilty of rape and confessed to the sexual assault charge. In light of his dangerous nature, Recorder I Jones handed down a 12-year prison sentence to Druce, supplemented by an extended licence period of four years. Druce was further subjected to sex offender notification requirements, a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, and two restraining orders.

Ceri Ellis-Jones from the CPS highlighted the predatory strategy employed by Druce, targeting a defenseless victim under the facade of offering aid, to gain access to her home. The robust case constructed by the police, fortified by CCTV and digital inquiries, was pivotal in achieving justice for the victim, underscoring the importance of collaborative efforts in prosecuting such egregious offenses.