DARREN BARTON FROM LLANDEILO AND TALIARIS SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX CRIMES IN SWANSEA
In a case that has shocked the communities of Llandeilo and Taliaris, Darren Michael Barton, aged 28, has been sentenced to nine years in prison after being convicted of multiple serious sexual offences involving a young girl.The crimes, which took place against a 10-year-old girl, led to a lengthy trial at Swansea Crown Court, where the jury found Barton guilty of sexual assault and inciting the girl to engage in sexual activity with him.
Judge Geraint Walters presided over the case and delivered the sentence, emphasizing the lasting impact such offences have on victims.
He stated that the victim would likely suffer lifelong emotional and psychological harm as a result of Barton's actions.
Despite the conviction, Barton maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings and denied all charges brought against him.
Judge Walters expressed his disappointment in Barton’s apparent lack of remorse, noting that such offences leave indelible scars.
He warned that the trauma inflicted on the young girl would resurface at various points in her life, underscoring the severity of the crimes committed.
In addition to the nine-year prison term, the judge ordered Barton to be on licence for an extra 12 months following his release.
Furthermore, a sexual harm prevention order was imposed to restrict his access to children, aiming to prevent any future harm.
Barton was also mandated to register as a sex offender with the police for life, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities.
Earlier in October 2017, Barton faced similar allegations when he was found guilty of several sex offences against a girl under the age of 13.
During that trial, he was emotional and sobbed as the jury returned seven guilty verdicts.
Although he was acquitted of two charges of rape, he was convicted of multiple counts of indecent assault.
His supporters and relatives in the courtroom reacted with gasps upon hearing the verdicts.
Judge Walters indicated that Barton would be sentenced after a probation officer prepared a comprehensive report on his background.
He made it clear that a custodial sentence was inevitable and that it would be in Barton's best interest not to be granted bail again.
Barton was remanded into custody and is scheduled for a sentencing hearing early next month, where the full extent of his punishment will be finalized.
