UPDATE: A man has been sentenced to two years in prison for sexually touching a woman while she slept, a case that underscores the profound trauma such violations can inflict. The ruling was handed down on July 10, 2025, in the Orange Local Court, where Magistrate Gary Wilson highlighted the victim’s ongoing distress.
In a powerful victim impact statement, the woman described the shocking violation she experienced, noting feelings of “trauma, anxiety, hopelessness, and despair” that continue to haunt her. Magistrate Wilson emphasized the seriousness of the offense, stating, “There’s no doubt that this offending has had a significant effect on the victim.”
The perpetrator, David James Jones, 23, entered the woman’s home without invitation in the early hours of May 31, 2024, after a night of drinking at a local establishment. Around 12:30 AM, he approached the woman, who was asleep in her loungeroom, and began inappropriately touching her. Initially mistaking him for her partner, the woman was shocked to discover it was Jones when she turned around.
After the incident, she immediately texted her partner for help and reported the assault to Orange Police later that evening. Jones fled the scene and later admitted to being at the home uninvited but claimed he could not remember his actions due to intoxication.
Jones was arrested on July 10, 2024, following the victim’s report. During the court proceedings, his solicitor, Mason Manwaring, acknowledged the severity of the crimes, stating that a term of imprisonment was necessary. “There’s no question Your Honour that there needs to be a term of imprisonment imposed on Mr. Jones,” he argued.
Despite acknowledging Jones’ lack of prior offenses and character references, prosecutor Shaun Towers pointed out the gravity of the situation, stating, “It was in the home of the victim.” He also expressed regret over Jones’ failure to engage in behavioral programs before the sentencing.
Ultimately, Magistrate Wilson ruled that the offenses warranted imprisonment, citing the need for accountability. However, he allowed Jones to serve his sentence through an intensive correction order, permitting him to remain in the community under strict conditions, including abstaining from alcohol and drugs unless prescribed.
The court’s decision reflects not only a commitment to justice for the victim but also the challenges of addressing such violations in a meaningful way. Authorities have emphasized the importance of support systems for victims of sexual assault as they navigate the trauma of their experiences.
As the case concludes, the victim continues to seek healing from her traumatic experience. The court’s ruling serves as a stark reminder of the impact of sexual violence and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable.
This developing story highlights the need for ongoing discussions about consent and safety in our communities.
