CONNOR TABNER SENTENCED IN PRESTATYN FOR SEXUAL OFFENCES AND VIOLENCE AT MOLD CROWN COURT

A man with a troubling criminal history, Connor Tabner, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term following a series of serious offences. Currently detained at HMP Berwyn, the 23-year-old former resident of Prestatyn appeared before Mold Crown Court on Friday to face sentencing for his convictions.

Tabner had previously been found guilty of multiple crimes, including three sexual offences—namely rape, assault by penetration, and sexual assault. The court was informed by prosecutor Myles Wilson that Tabner’s criminal record is marked by numerous violent crimes committed against women, highlighting a pattern of aggressive and harmful behavior.

During the trial, after the jury returned a verdict of guilty on the sexual offence charges, Tabner’s conduct in the courtroom drew significant attention. He launched into a tirade of obscene and abusive language directed at the jurors from the dock, creating a tense and unsettling atmosphere. It required the intervention of two prison officers to remove him from the courtroom, underscoring the severity of his outburst.

Judge Simon Mills described the incident as the most egregious outburst he had witnessed from a defendant in the dock, second only to actual violence. The judge emphasized the seriousness of the defendant’s behavior, which posed a threat to the dignity and safety of the court proceedings.

Defence counsel Philip Clemo addressed the court, expressing remorse on behalf of Tabner. He acknowledged that his client’s actions were highly inappropriate and apologized for the outburst at the conclusion of the trial. Clemo also highlighted that, despite the gravity of the crimes, Tabner is a relatively young man with aspirations for a better future.

He explained that prior to his arrest, Tabner had been planning to establish a business and was motivated by realistic ambitions to reintegrate into society as a productive individual. Clemo argued that labeling him as a 'dangerous offender' might overlook the fact that he is more accurately described as a 'damaged' young man who, with proper intervention, could potentially lead a law-abiding life.

However, Judge Mills was clear in his assessment. After considering all factors, he concluded that Tabner is indeed a dangerous offender. Recognizing that a standard sentence would not sufficiently protect the public, the judge imposed an extended sentence of 15 years, with 12 years to be served in custody and an additional three years on extended licence.

Under the terms of the sentence, Tabner is required to serve at least two-thirds of his custodial period—equating to eight years—before he can be considered for parole. If the parole board refuses, he may be compelled to serve the full 12-year custodial term.

In addition to the primary sentence, the court imposed concurrent terms for other convictions, including assault occasioning actual bodily harm, strangulation, and controlling or coercive behavior. Furthermore, as a sex offender, Tabner will be subject to lifelong notification requirements, ensuring ongoing monitoring and registration as a sex offender for the rest of his life.