BENJAMIN HEWENS FROM LAUGHARNE SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE IN CARMARTHENSHIRE

In July 2021, a disturbing case unfolded involving Benjamin Daniel Hewens, a man well-known in the community of Laugharne, Carmarthenshire. Hewens, a 30-year-old father of two and a bus driver by profession, was found guilty of repeatedly abusing a vulnerable teenage girl over a period of several months. The victim, who was under the age of 16 at the time, endured a series of sexual assaults carried out by Hewens, who manipulated her trust and exploited her vulnerability for his own sexual gratification.

Despite denying the allegations throughout the trial, Hewens was convicted after a thorough examination of the evidence presented at Swansea Crown Court. The court heard detailed accounts of how Hewens, who was a familiar figure in the local community, engaged in multiple acts of sexual assault against the young girl. The victim’s statement, read aloud by prosecution barrister Nicola Powell, painted a harrowing picture of the emotional and psychological toll inflicted upon her. She described feeling “dirty and ashamed” and revealed that her self-esteem had been shattered as a direct result of Hewens’ actions. The impact of the abuse extended beyond her personal suffering, affecting her family as well.

As a victim of sexual offences, the girl has been granted lifelong legal anonymity to protect her identity and privacy. The court acknowledged the severity of the crimes committed by Hewens, who had previously been convicted of four counts of sexual assault of a child and one count of possessing indecent images. Notably, Hewens had no prior convictions before these offenses came to light.

Judge Catherine Richards delivered a stern judgment, condemning Hewens for his manipulative and predatory behavior. She emphasized that Hewens had exploited a vulnerable young girl “for your own sexual gratification,” and highlighted the devastating effect his actions had on her life. The judge’s words underscored the gravity of the case and the betrayal of trust involved.

Hewens was sentenced to a term of 14 years in prison. The court ordered that he serve two-thirds of this sentence behind bars, with the remaining period to be served on licence in the community. Additionally, Hewens will be registered as a sex offender for the rest of his life, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions to protect the public from further harm.