Police in Wiltshire have praised a rape victim for her courage after her rapist has been jailed.

Lexi Secker, of Lowbourne near Melksham, was first convicted of one count of rape after a four-day trial in Swindon Crown Court in June 2024.

The court heard how the 35-year-old transgender woman had been living as a man named Alexander when the rape took place in the woods after a night out in Blunsdon on April 21, 2021.

“I am sure you hatched a plan to be alone with her," said Judge Jason Taylor KC.

"You suggested you take her for a walk under the pretence of sobering up. You took her to a secluded spot in the woods.”

The female victim, who attended Swindon Crown Court in person on September 27, 2024, said she had experienced “unbearable anxiety” since the attack.

Describing Lexi Secker by her former name Alex, the victim added: “He took away my trust in people and myself. The assault consumed me with shame and fear.”

Lexi Secker has been sentenced to six and a half years in an all-male prisonLexi Secker has been sentenced to six and a half years in an all-male prison (Image: Wiltshire Police) Detective Constable Corrina Wiltshire, of Wiltshire Police, has now spoken out in praise of the victim's courage which helped bring this case to light.

"I would firstly like to thank our victim in this case who has been inspirational in the way they have handled things," said DC Wiltshire.

"I hope this sentence gives other victims the strength to come forward and help police seek justice for them.

"This case has taken a long time to get to this point, but I'm pleased to say the victim has trusted the police throughout and stayed with this despite the hurdles.

"They have such incredible strength and I hope it shows others that they can do this too."

Secker, who appeared via video link from HMP Bristol, has now been sentenced by Judge Taylor KC to six and a half years in a male prison.

Wiltshire Police is now urging anyone who may have been a victim of rape or sexual assault to report the offence as soon as possible.

"Even if you’re not 100 per cent sure, we’d sooner hear from you so that we can make sure you’re safe," said a spokesperson for the force.

"If you’re not ready to talk to the police just yet, that’s OK.

"You can find a range of places to get support, advice and medical help."

Independent sexual violence advisors (ISVAs) who help adults, children and their families get access to the services they need are available without police intervention through sexual assault referral centres.