In 2026, the Offender Database recorded that Riley James, then 25, of Heywood, Greater Manchester, was convicted of sexual assault following an incident in a city centre hotel. On Wednesday, 18 February 2026, James appeared at Manchester Crown Court where the details of the attack were disclosed. The court reported that the defendant utilized a prosthetic penis to sexually assault a woman during a stay at the Leonardo Hotel in Manchester in July 2023.
The investigation established that the assault occurred after the pair had spent the evening celebrating the victim’s birthday. Greater Manchester Police reported that while the victim was asleep, James initiated sexual activity using the prosthetic device. The court heard that the victim awoke to find the defendant assaulting her; despite her physical attempts to push James away, the defendant “thrived” and continued the attack until the victim managed to lock herself in the bathroom to call for help.
Judicial Findings and Investigative Detail
The court reported that the defendant had engaged in a “deception” regarding their biological identity and the nature of the sexual act. Manchester Crown Court heard that James had transition-related surgeries and used a prosthetic during the assault without the victim’s knowledge or consent. The prosecution reported that the survivor felt “violated and disgusted” by the betrayal of trust, particularly as the incident took place during what was intended to be a celebratory occasion.
The judge noted that the defendant’s actions were predatory, as they targeted a victim who was in a state of sleep and therefore unable to provide consent. For the actions in Manchester, James was found guilty of one count of sexual assault. The judge reported that the defendant would be remanded in custody pending a sentencing hearing, with the court requiring reports to assess the level of risk posed to the public.
Sentence and Statutory Requirements
For the crimes in England, Riley James was handed:
- Custodial Sentence: Remanded in custody (Sentencing scheduled for a later date).
- Sex Offenders Register: Notification requirements will be activated upon sentencing.
- Judicial Oversight: Convicted at Manchester Crown Court following a jury trial.
Monitoring and Public Protection
James is managed under Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA) by Greater Manchester Police and the prison estate. Due to the “deceptive and violent” nature of the assault in Manchester, the management is subject to oversight by the Public Protection Unit.
As a member of the Sex Offenders Register, James must comply with notification requirements regarding any residence in Heywood, Greater Manchester, for the period specified by the court. Authorities state that the nature of the offending necessitates scrutiny of future relationships and conduct. Any breach of registration conditions or future licence terms will result in immediate arrest and a return to Manchester Crown Court.
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