Numerous charges for Swindon men after reported child rapes

The alleged offences relate to a property in Ratcoombe Road, Swindon, on 31 May last year.
Zak Hanman, 20, of Windsor Road, Swindon, has been charged with:
- Two counts of sexual assault by penetration
- Two counts of sexual assault
- Arranging/facilitating a child sex offence
- False imprisonment
- Committing an offence with intent to commit a sexual offence
- Sending photograph or film of genitals
William Smith, 22, of Farnsby Street, Swindon, has been charged with:
- Three counts of rape
- Administering a substance with intent to stupefy / overpower to allow sexual activity
- Arranging/facilitating a child sex offence
- Committing an offence with intent to commit a sexual offence
- Two counts of possessing a class B drug, namely ketamine and cannabis
Lewis Wheeler, 26, of Berton Close, Blunsdon, Swindon, has been charged with:
- Two counts of rape
- Committing an offence with intent to commit a sexual offence
Mason Tomkins, 20, Walter Close, the Prinnels, Swindon, has been charged with:
- Sexual assault
- Sexual Activity with a child
They have been bailed to appear before Swindon Magistrates’ Court on 8 and 9 December.
The investigation began following reports of rapes involving three teenage female victims aged under 16 on May 31 last year, and then was widened to encompass further incidents in February and March last year.
DC James Pugh from Swindon CID said: “This is a significant development in our investigation into the incident which occurred in Ratcoombe Road in May last year.
“I appreciate the community concern it caused at the time and please be assured that we take incidents like this incredibly seriously.
“The victims involved continue to be supported by specially trained officers.
“I would encourage people not to speculate to allow the criminal justice process to take its course.”
 

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