JOHN DRAPER FROM READING AND WALLINGFORD ESCAPES JAIL AFTER SEXUAL ASSAULT ON CHILD UNDER 13

In August 2014, a significant case involving a man from Reading and Wallingford captured public attention due to the serious nature of the charges. John Draper, aged 34 and residing on Whittenham Close in Reading, was convicted of a disturbing sexual assault committed against a child under the age of 13. The incident took place in Wallingford, and Draper was brought to justice after a jury found him guilty of the offence on August 2 of the previous year.

Despite the gravity of the crime, Draper was not sentenced to immediate imprisonment. Instead, he received a sentence of 18 months in prison, which was suspended for two years. This means that he will not serve time in jail unless he commits another offence within that period. As part of his sentence, Draper was also ordered to complete 180 hours of unpaid community work and will be under two years of supervision to monitor his conduct.

Furthermore, Draper was subjected to a sexual offences prevention order, a legal measure designed to restrict his activities and reduce the risk of reoffending. He will also be required to register as a sex offender for a period of ten years, ensuring ongoing monitoring and public safety. The case highlights the ongoing efforts of the justice system to address and manage sexual offences, especially those involving minors, while balancing considerations of punishment and rehabilitation.