September 2014
Swindon sex offenders jailed for offences against schoolgirls
Today at Swindon Crown Court, Royston Gonsalves, 25 (pictured on right) , of Ponting Street, Swindon, and Filbert Antao, 22, (pictured on left) of Axbridge Close, Swindon, have been sentenced for a number of sexual offences against children.
Both Gonsalves and Antao were charged with four counts of engaging in sexual activity with a child.
The victims were three females aged 13, 14 and 14 at the time of the offences.
They both pleaded guilty to the offences at an earlier hearing.
They have both been jailed for 7 years each.
Following today’s sentencing, Superintendent Andrew Carr said: “Gonsalves and Antao preyed on these vulnerable children and exploited them for their own sexual gratification.
“Both sexually abused the children on several occasions during a prolonged cycle of manipulation and abuse.
“I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to these young victims who have shown courage and bravery by coming forward and reporting the horrific abuse they were being subjected to.
“This case is a good example of us working with partner agencies and charities to bring the most dangerous sexual offenders to justice whilst supporting and rehabilitating the young victims.
“I would urge anyone who has been the victim of any sexual assault to contact Wiltshire Police immediately – we have dedicated officers who are specially trained to help those who have been abused.”
Anyone wishing to report a crime should contact Wiltshire Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be left anonymously.
