Swansea street entertainer jailed for seven years for rape

A SEVEN-YEAR sentence on a 50-year-old street entertainer found guilty of rape has been welcomed by police.

Steven Beeks, of no fixed abode, was said to have been an often-seen figure on Swansea's streets, performing as a painted "living artist".

He has been found guilty of one count of rape and one count of causing actual bodily harm by a jury at Caernarfon Crown Court.

His rape conviction means that he will be required to register as a sex offender and subject to monitoring for life.

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"I am taking the unusual steps of releasing his image into the public domain in the belief that there may be other victims of crime that have yet to be identified by the investigation team," said Detective Inspector Diane Davies.

"Steven Beeks was a transient individual and travelled extensively throughout the country.

"The nature of sexual abuse is such that it is rarely witnessed.

"I would encourage anyone who has concerns regarding Mr Beeks to contact their local police, and they will be advised on their options and support services available to them.

Beeks was pictured by the Evening Post in Oxford Street, Swansea, in April last year, dressed as a white statue.

DI Davies added: "I would like to take the opportunity to thank the people who have assisted the investigation, particularly the ladies who gave evidence at court.

"They showed immense courage and resilience, they know who they are."