CCTV and mobile phone footage showed Liam Stimpson rape and violently assault the victim during the early hours of Wednesday, December 27, 2023.
Stimpson, from Llanrumney, Cardiff, denied four offences including rape and grievous bodily harm but was found guilty by a jury at Cardiff Crown Court on Thursday, May 30.
Stimpson had been out celebrating his 24th birthday when he attacked the woman underneath the railway bridge which borders Callaghan Square and St Mary Street.
The assault continued even as she managed to run away while shouting for help.
Two key witnesses, a cleaner from a bar and a delivery driver, intervened and police were called.
Within half an hour of being called, Stimpson was arrested in Caroline Street and has been in custody ever since.
Detective Inspector Katherine Barry from South Wales Police said:
“Stranger attacks such as these are extremely unusual in Cardiff but in Liam Stimpson we had a dangerous individual.
“The level of violence he used, and degradation of the victim was horrendous. He is an absolute danger to women.
“We would like to thank the witnesses who came forward as a result of the press appeal for information and those who bravely gave evidence.
“We would also like to pay tribute to the victim’s support officer who has been an invaluable support to the victim and the investigation.”
Stimpson was sentenced to 15 years in prison at Cardiff Crown Court today (Monday, June 3).
South Wales Police takes all reports of sexual assault seriously and urges victims to come forward to report it, regardless of when it happened, safe in the knowledge that they will be treated with respect and dignity and that their allegation will be fully investigated.
For more advice on rape, sexual assault and other sexual offences visit:
https://www.south-wales.police.uk/ro/report/rsa/alpha-v1/advice/rape-sexual-assault-and-other-sexual-offences/
