WAR HERO HAROLD EDWARDS OF PENTRE BROUGHTON SENTENCED FOR SEX OFFENCES IN NORTH WALES

In October 2008, Harold Edwards, an 83-year-old war veteran from Pentre Broughton, was sentenced to four and a half years in prison after being found guilty of multiple serious sex offences, including child abuse. The court also mandated that Edwards register as a sex offender for life, reflecting the gravity of his crimes.

During the proceedings at Mold Crown Court, it was revealed that Edwards, a retired steel worker who had previously been recognized for his bravery—specifically for saving a man’s life during a house fire—had committed acts of sexual abuse against children over a prolonged period. The court heard disturbing details about how one of his victims had been coerced into silence, with Edwards warning her that if she disclosed the abuse, she would be taken away. Such threats were part of a pattern of grooming and intimidation that added to the severity of his offences.

In addition to the prison sentence, the court imposed a Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO) on Edwards. One of the key restrictions under this order is that he is not permitted to have a child in his home unsupervised, aiming to prevent further harm and protect potential victims.

Edwards, a widower residing at Alyndale, New Road, Pentre Broughton, near Wrexham, pleaded guilty to seven counts of indecent assault and one count of attempted rape, involving three different young girls. The court was told that these offences spanned over two decades, beginning after his retirement from work. The victims were all under the age of 13 at the time of the abuse, with some as young as eight or ten, and the most serious charge involved an attempted rape of a girl over 16.

Judge Philip Hughes addressed Edwards directly, expressing regret that his age and physical condition prevented a longer prison term. He remarked, “It is a tragedy that somebody like you, nearly 84 years of age, should be appearing before a crown court for sentence at this time of your life.” The judge acknowledged that Edwards had otherwise led a blameless life apart from these serious offences, which had been committed over a lengthy period.

Judge Hughes emphasized the disturbing nature of the crimes, noting that Edwards had repeatedly assaulted young girls and engaged in sexual grooming, which involved manipulative tactics to control his victims. He also highlighted the frightening threats Edwards made to one girl, warning her that if she told anyone about the abuse, she would be taken away, adding a layer of intimidation and fear.

In his defense, Jonathan Austin stated that Edwards was remorseful and ashamed of his actions. He also noted that Edwards had pleaded guilty on the day he was due to stand trial, demonstrating his acceptance of responsibility and a desire to avoid further trauma for his victims.

It was also revealed that Edwards had served with distinction during World War II, earning medals for his service in France, Belgium, and Holland with the Pioneer Corps in the 1940s. Despite his military accolades, his later actions have cast a shadow over his reputation, leading to his current conviction and sentencing in North Wales.