Man Sentenced to Nine Years for Violent Attack on Teenager in Solihull Park
A 22-year-old man has been jailed for nine years and six months after attacking and attempting to rape a teenage girl in a Solihull park. Dago Williams, of Hampton Road in Erdington, admitted to the offences at Birmingham Crown Court on Tuesday, February 17.
Horrific Incident Unfolds After Bus Encounter
The incident began on June 6 last year when Williams approached a group of teenagers on a bus heading towards Chelmsley Wood. He boasted about having "a lot of money" and added the group on Snapchat. After getting off the bus with them, Williams offered the teenagers cans of alcoholic drinks that he had stolen from a supermarket.
Williams and one of the girls from the group, a 17-year-old, then sat on a bench in Meriden Park. He tried to kiss her, which she refused. Williams then sexually assaulted and attempted to rape the girl. When she managed to stand up, he punched and hit her in the face before strangling her, causing her to fall to the ground.
Victim Escapes and Reports Attack to Police
As the girl managed to get away, Williams threw her bag into nearby bushes. She was able to scream and shout for help, running to a friend's house where she called West Midlands Police. Officers identified Williams through a detailed description and the Snapchat username he had given to the girl.
Williams was arrested and charged with attempted rape, sexual assault, intentional strangulation, assault, and shop theft. He admitted to all offences at an earlier hearing.
Police Commend Victim's Courage
DC Kevin Shaw of the Child Abuse Investigation Team stated: "This was a horrific incident that will have a significant and profound impact on the girl for many years to come. I want to commend her for calling for help and reporting the incident to the police. Williams is clearly a risk to women and girls, and we're pleased to see he is now behind bars."
West Midlands Police emphasized their commitment to supporting survivors of sexual assault, noting that survivors are protected by law and have life-long anonymity. The force added: "We take every report of rape and sexual offences extremely seriously. Our officers are specially trained to thoroughly investigate reports and make sure that those reporting them are properly supported."
