Police in Wiltshire are commending a rape victim for her remarkable bravery following the sentencing of her attacker, Lexi Secker.
Secker, a 35-year-old transgender woman from Lowbourne near Melksham, was found guilty of one count of rape after a four-day trial at Swindon Crown Court in June 2024. The court revealed that the assault occurred in the woods after a night out in Blunsdon on April 21, 2021, when Secker, then known as Alexander, allegedly manipulated the situation to isolate the victim.
Judge Jason Taylor KC remarked, “I am sure you hatched a plan to be alone with her,” highlighting Secker’s premeditated actions.
The victim, who attended the court on September 27, 2024, shared her struggles since the attack, stating, “I have experienced unbearable anxiety. He took away my trust in people and myself.”
Secker was sentenced to six and a half years in an all-male prison. Detective Constable Corrina Wiltshire expressed her admiration for the victim’s courage, emphasizing how instrumental her testimony was in securing justice. “I hope this sentence encourages other victims to come forward,” DC Wiltshire said.
Wiltshire Police are urging anyone affected by rape or sexual assault to report the incident as soon as possible. “Even if you’re not 100 percent sure, we want to hear from you to ensure your safety,” a police spokesperson stated.
Support services, including Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVAs), are available for those in need of assistance without requiring police involvement.