Man who sexually assaulted sleeping woman jailed
45 year old Daniel Smith from Oxfordshire, was sentenced at Swindon Crown Court on 23rd January
Last updated 26th Jan 2026
A 45-year-old man has been jailed for 16 years after raping a woman in Highworth while she was sleeping.
Daniel Smith, of Ladywell Close, North Leigh, Oxfordshire, was sentenced at Swindon Crown Court on 23rd January.
The court heard that Smith attacked the victim, on 4th November 202, raping her while she was sleeping and, on 9th December 2023, groped her while climbing into her bed against her consent.
The offences were reported to police on 18th December 2023, and Smith was arrested on the same day.
He was later charged with rape, sexual assault, and breaching his Sexual Harm Prevention Order.
Smith was found guilty by jury in November 2025.
At Swindon Crown Court on Friday (23/01), Smith was sentenced to 16 years imprisonment – 11 years custodial and then five years on extended licence.
Judge Taylor described Smith as a dangerous offender and said his sentence was influenced by aggravating factors including alcohol and multiple previous convictions of a similar nature.
He will also remain on the Sex Offender's Register indefinitely and subject to the Sexual Harm Prevention Order.
DC Hemns, investigating officer, commended the bravery of the victim, saying:
“She has shown incredible bravery, strength and courage throughout this case, particularly as Smith forced her to relive the trauma through a trial.
“I hope now the legal proceedings have concluded that she can begin to heal and move on from this shadow hanging over her.
“Smith is a predatory individual who has previous convictions for this kind of crime.
“I’m pleased the judge recognised the severity of his offending and gave him a lengthy custodial sentence.”