Travelodge Staff Gave Rapist Access to Woman's Hotel Room
A woman who was sexually assaulted in a Travelodge hotel is calling for the budget chain to overhaul its security procedures after staff gave a convicted rapist key card access to her room. The victim, who cannot be named for legal reasons, described Travelodge's subsequent offer of a £30 apology as deeply insulting and inadequate.
Deceptive Plot Unfolds at Maidenhead Branch
The attack occurred in December 2022 at the Travelodge in Maidenhead. Kyran Smith met the woman, now in her 30s, at a party before both returned to separate rooms at the hotel. In the early hours, Smith deceptively approached reception staff, falsely claiming to be the woman's boyfriend. Despite security protocols, staff provided him with a key card to her room.
The victim, who was staying alone in a hotel for the first time, stated she had double-checked her door was locked. She initially could not comprehend how Smith had entered her room, only later discovering the security breach. Travelodge has acknowledged that the £30 offer made to the woman was inappropriate, though the company maintains its team followed correct procedures at the time.
Victim's Frustration and Calls for Change
The woman expressed profound frustration, feeling Travelodge had failed her. "I feel like they failed me," she said. "It makes me more frustrated that they haven't said 'OK yes we did this wrong'. Instead they've put the blame aside." She questioned the logic of granting access without verification, especially during the night. "If I checked-in on my own and the room booking is just for me why would you think it's OK to let someone in in the middle of the night while I'm asleep? At least wake me up or phone the room or come up to the room. Anything is better than just giving someone a key card."
She is now urging Travelodge to implement stricter security measures to prevent similar incidents. The company issued a statement emphasizing guest safety as a priority and expressing sympathy for the victim, while reiterating that staff training aligns with approved policies.
Legal Outcome and Police Response
Kyran Smith was found guilty of sexual assault and trespass with intent to commit a relevant sexual offence following a trial at Reading Crown Court in November. He has been sentenced to seven-and-a-half years in prison. Investigating officer Detective Constable Arshid Ali of Thames Valley Police stated the sentence reflects the offence's seriousness and Smith's dangerous nature.
"Thames Valley Police treat all sexual offences with the utmost seriousness, particularly those committed against women," he added. "We will continue to prioritise the identification, arrest and prosecution of those who commit sexual violence." This case highlights ongoing concerns about hotel security and victim support in the hospitality industry.
