A Wiltshire man tried to rape a teen at knifepoint in broad daylight, a court heard.
William Thomas attacked the 17-year-old girl as she walked her dog in the Mill Lane area of Stratford sub Castle, Salisbury, at around 11am on 1 June last year.
The 29-year-old married father wasn’t able to carry out his intention – forced intercourse – due to the victim fighting him off and running away.
He previously pleaded guilty to attempted rape and possession of a bladed article in a public place.
But following assessments of the defendant’s mental state, Winchester Crown Court handed him a hospital order.
Thomas, of Macklin Road, Salisbury, was be detained in a secure facility under the Mental Health Act until specialists determine that he is safe to live in the community.
In a victim personal statement, the girl said: “Since it happened my whole life has changed.
“In my head, my life is split into before and after the assault. It feels like everything I do is based on fear.
“I hate when my mind goes back to that day but it’s so unexpected when it does. I still have moments of dissociation when I seem to lose at least a few seconds.
“All I want is to feel like a normal member of society without fear being the deciding factor for my every move.
“What happened to me has changed the course of my life forever and I don’t see a reason why it shouldn’t do the same for him.”
Wiltshire Police detective Emma Fisher said: “I would like to praise the victim in this case for having the courage and conviction to see this through.
“The assault was terrifying for her and to relive it numerous times has been very difficult.
“Thomas attacked her in broad daylight and has changed her life forever. I would urge anyone who has been a victim of sexual assault to come forward and tell someone.
“We understand it can be difficult. You might not be completely sure what happened or how to talk about it, but we have trained officers and partner organisations that are here to listen and work together to support you in any way we can.”
