CLIVE WAKELY SENTENCED TO 10 YEARS FOR CHILD RAPE IN MERTHYR TYDFIL AND ABERYSTWYTH

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Merthyr Tydfil, Clive Wakely, aged 37, was sentenced to a decade behind bars after being convicted of a series of heinous crimes involving a young child. The offences, which came to light in July, revealed a pattern of sexual abuse that Wakely inflicted upon a victim under the age of 16, including acts of rape, indecent assault, and other indecencies.

Wakely, who resides on Glantaff Road in Troedyrhiw, Merthyr Tydfil, admitted to six charges of rape, one of indecent assault, and three counts of indecency with a child during his appearance at Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court. Despite his guilty pleas, he denied an additional three rape charges and one indecency charge, which will remain on the court record. The severity of the crimes prompted the judge to proceed with sentencing without the usual pre-sentence reports, a decision that underscores the gravity of the case.

The prosecution, led by Stephen Donaghue, detailed how the offences were uncovered. Wakely was located by police at a beach near Aberystwyth, where he had attempted to take his own life by slashing his wrists. Upon arrest, he reportedly told officers, “I’ve just got to accept it, and put my hands up,” though he remained silent during subsequent interviews.

Judge John Curran, describing the crimes as particularly grave, emphasized the impact on the victim. He noted that the young person had been in fear of Wakely and only found the courage to speak out in July. The judge also highlighted that Wakely had continued his abusive campaign despite the victim’s tears and protests, leaving the child with potentially “absolutely horrific memories” of childhood.

In a rare move, Judge Curran sentenced Wakely immediately, without waiting for detailed reports, reflecting the seriousness of the offences. The judge also pointed out that Wakely had no previous convictions, making the case even more troubling. During the sentencing, the judge acknowledged the victim’s suffering and the lasting trauma inflicted.

Tom Crowther, representing Wakely, stated that his client could not explain his conduct. “He has pleaded guilty and by doing so has made the only possible apology, the only possible expression of remorse for what he has done,” Crowther said. He added that Wakely had made some effort at recompense by ensuring that the victim did not have to give evidence in court, a decision that was seen as a belated attempt at making amends.

This case has left a deep scar on the community of Merthyr Tydfil, with authorities emphasizing the importance of protecting vulnerable children and ensuring that offenders are held accountable for their actions.