Man hospitalized after admitting trying to rape teenage girl

A Salisbury man has been given a hospital order – to be detained under the Mental Health Act – after admitting trying to rape a teenage girl in June last year.

William Thomas, 29, of Macklin Road, had previously pleaded guilty to attempted rape and possession of a sharp article in a public place.

Winchester Crown Court heard how Thomas attacked a teenage girl as she walked her dog in the Mill Lane area of ​​Stratford Sub-Castle, Salisbury, on the morning of June 1.

She managed to push him away before he ran away.

In a victim personal statement, his victim said: “Since it happened, my whole life has changed. In my head, my life is divided between before and after the attack. I feel like everything I do is based on fear.

“I hate when I think about that day, but it’s so unexpected when it happens. I still have moments of dissociation where I seem to lose at least a few seconds. All I want is to feel like a normal member of society without fear being the deciding factor in my every move.

“What happened to me changed the course of my life forever and I don’t see why it shouldn’t do the same for him.”

DC Emma Fisher said: “I would like to commend the victim in this case for having the courage and conviction to bring this matter to a successful conclusion. The attack was terrifying for her and reliving it several times was very difficult.

“Thomas attacked her in broad daylight and changed her life forever. I urge anyone who has experienced sexual assault to come forward and tell someone.

“We understand this can be difficult. You may not know exactly what happened or how to talk about it, but we have trained officers and partner organizations who are here to listen and work together to support you in any way they can.

Information about reporting rape on the Wiltshire Police website –

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