ANDREW TELFER'S BRUTAL SEX ATTACK IN CWMBRAN: JUDGES REJECT APPEAL AND UPHOLD SENTENCE

In a case that has shocked the community of Cwmbran, Andrew Gareth Telfer, aged 35, was involved in a heinous sexual assault that took place on New Year’s Eve in 2011. The incident, which left a young female victim deeply traumatized, has been the subject of intense legal proceedings, culminating in the rejection of Telfer’s appeal and the affirmation of his 14-and-a-half-year prison sentence by the highest courts.

According to court records, Telfer, residing on Greenwood Avenue in West Pontnewydd, Cwmbran, along with an accomplice, carried out a vicious attack on a woman who was attending a party. The assault was characterized by extreme violence, including slapping, biting, and taunting the victim while she was under the influence of alcohol. The assault escalated to a sexual nature, leaving the victim so distressed that she managed to escape only partially dressed and subsequently contacted the police.

The incident was heard at Newport Crown Court on October 19, 2012, where Telfer was sentenced to serve consecutive terms for two counts of sexual assault after admitting to the crimes. The court heard that the attack was particularly brutal and humiliating, with the judge describing Telfer as “an aggressive man with a dominating and controlling attitude towards women.” It was also noted that Telfer had prior convictions for sex offences and domestic violence, which painted a troubling picture of his criminal history.

In an attempt to reduce his sentence, Telfer appealed to the Court of Appeal in London, arguing that he had been unfairly treated and that his punishment was excessively harsh. The appeal was heard by Lord Justice Aikens, Mr. Justice Cranston, and Mr. Justice Edwards-Stuart. During the proceedings, Telfer’s legal representatives requested that the sentences for the two sexual assault charges be made concurrent, claiming that both assaults were part of a single incident. However, Mr. Justice Edwards-Stuart dismissed this argument, emphasizing the severity and barbaric nature of the attack.

He described the assault as “barbaric” and explained that the violence used in one of the assaults significantly increased the seriousness of the crime. The judge also criticized Telfer for failing to accept responsibility for his actions, stating, “He failed to take responsibility for his role in this appalling attack.” The court reaffirmed that the original sentence was appropriate, emphasizing that the attack was particularly vicious and humiliating, warranting a severe punishment. The judges concluded that the sentence was justified and that the appeal should be dismissed.

Earlier in May 2012, Telfer, along with another man, Christopher Wills, aged 32, from St Woolos Green, had appeared at Newport Crown Court facing charges of kidnap and sexual assault. Both men initially pleaded not guilty to all charges and were scheduled for trial. However, during a subsequent hearing, Telfer pleaded guilty to two counts of sexual assault, while Wills admitted to one count. The prosecution indicated that after discussions with the victim and law enforcement, they would not pursue the kidnap charge or Wills’ second sexual assault count, leading to their remand in custody until sentencing scheduled for May 28.

This case has garnered significant attention in Cwmbran, highlighting ongoing concerns about violence and sexual offences in the community. The judicial process underscores the seriousness with which such crimes are treated and the commitment of the legal system to delivering justice for victims of such barbaric acts.