BRAD CONWAY SENTENCED IN HALIFAX FOR SEXUAL OFFENSES AND HARASSMENT

A man formerly known for his involvement in sports and education has been handed a significant prison sentence following serious allegations of sexual misconduct and harassment in Halifax. Brad Conway, aged 37, was convicted last August after a retrial at Bradford Crown Court, where he was found guilty of raping one woman and harassing another with the intent to commit rape.

Conway’s criminal case initially began with a broader set of allegations. He was previously tried in October 2017 on charges involving five women, with accusations ranging from rape and sexual abuse to voyeurism and false imprisonment. However, after the trial, he was acquitted of charges related to three of these women, including the rape allegations. The Crown Prosecution Service later decided not to pursue additional rape charges that were scheduled for a subsequent trial.

During the retrial, the court heard disturbing details about Conway’s actions. It was revealed that he had forced a woman to perform oral sex on him at a property in Bradford following a night out in Leeds. In addition to these sexual assault charges, Conway was convicted of sending threatening emails to another woman. These emails contained messages that included threats to send her and her family sexually explicit photographs, with the clear intent to intimidate and coerce her into compliance, and ultimately to facilitate a rape.

Following the guilty verdicts, Judge Neil Davey QC ordered Conway to be remanded into custody until the sentencing hearing. Conway, who previously resided in Wibsey, Bradford, has a background that includes playing semi-professional rugby for teams such as Dewsbury Rams and Hunslet Hawks. He also claims to have had a stint with the United States national rugby league team and has participated in approximately 300 mixed martial arts fights. Despite his athletic pursuits, the court’s focus was on his character and conduct.

The judge was highly critical of Conway’s personality, emphasizing that his previous actions demonstrated an arrogant attitude and a belief that women should submit to his will. The court heard from a victim who described Conway as someone who could appear charming and generous but was also controlling and temperamental. The harassment was reportedly triggered by a Facebook photo of the victim on a night out, which Conway perceived as disrespectful, leading to his threatening behavior.

In light of the convictions, the court sentenced Conway to seven and a half years in prison. Additionally, an indefinite restraining order was issued to prevent any contact with the victims. Conway will also be required to register as a sex offender for life, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his conduct. The case underscores the serious consequences of his actions and highlights the importance of accountability in cases of sexual violence and harassment.