GARY DONNELLY FROM LLANDUDNO JAILED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE IN NORTH WALES

In a case that has shocked the community of Llandudno and the wider North Wales region, PC Gary Donnelly, a police officer with a distinguished record, has been sentenced to 18 months in prison for the serious crime of sexually abusing a 14-year-old girl. The incident, which took place in 2002, was brought to light during a retrial at Caernarfon Crown Court, where Donnelly was found guilty of two counts of indecent assault against the young girl.

During the proceedings, it was revealed that Donnelly, aged 47 at the time of sentencing, had initially denied the allegations. The case had previously gone to trial, but the jury was unable to reach a verdict, prompting a retrial that ultimately led to his conviction. As part of his sentence, Donnelly is also required to register as a sex offender for a period of ten years, a measure intended to monitor his activities and prevent further harm.

The court heard that Donnelly had told his victim that she reminded him of his late wife, who had tragically died in childbirth in the same year as the assault. The judge, Recorder Huw Rees, acknowledged the difficult emotional context surrounding the offences, stating, “The offences were committed at a traumatic time for you, some two months or so after the tragic death of your wife.”

Throughout the trial, it was detailed how Donnelly had coerced the young girl into his bed, engaging in passionate kissing, hugging, and touching. The judge emphasized the lasting impact of these actions on the victim, describing the effects as “long-lasting.”

Gary Donnelly, who joined North Wales Police in 2003, was once recognized for his community service. In 2011, he received the North Wales Police Federation’s community service award and was also nominated for an all-Wales community award for his work on an anti-crime initiative in Llandudno. His reputation as a dedicated officer was well-known before these allegations surfaced.

During the sentencing, Donnelly’s defense lawyer, Nicholas Walker, argued that his client had contributed significantly to the public good in North Wales. Mr. Walker stated, “Donnelly has done so much for the community,” and expressed concern that custody would be particularly difficult for him given the nature of the offence.

Following the court’s decision, senior investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector Sian Beck expressed her gratitude to those involved in the investigation. She praised the victim’s strength and resolve in coming forward, emphasizing that the police are committed to thoroughly investigating such cases regardless of when the offences occurred. Beck reaffirmed the department’s dedication to supporting victims and witnesses throughout the legal process.

Ch Insp Dave Roome of the North Wales Police professional standards department also commented on the case, stating that the police would now review any additional material that has come to light and complete their internal investigation swiftly. He confirmed that Donnelly remains suspended from duty pending further review, underscoring the seriousness with which the force is handling the matter.