JAMES MCCONNELL OF RHYL SENTENCED TO NINE YEARS FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF TWO GIRLS IN NORTH WALES

In a case that has shocked the community of Rhyl and the wider North Wales region, James McConnell, aged 39, was sentenced to a lengthy prison term of nine years after being found guilty of sexually abusing two young girls over a period of four years. The sentencing took place at Caernarfon Crown Court, where Judge Niclas Parry delivered a stern verdict, emphasizing the gravity of McConnell’s actions and the impact on his victims.

Judge Parry expressed his disapproval of McConnell’s conduct, noting that the defendant’s actions appeared to have been emboldened by an earlier complaint made by one of the victims, which had been dismissed at the time. The judge remarked, “It’s an aggravating feature that you turned that to your advantage,” highlighting how McConnell exploited the trust placed in him by the young girls.

The court heard that over a span of four years, McConnell engaged in repeated instances of abuse against the two vulnerable girls, actions that inflicted lasting trauma on the victims. The case was further compounded by the fact that the victims had to relive their painful experiences during the trial at Mold Crown Court, adding to their emotional distress.

While the court acknowledged that McConnell was of previously good character and that many people spoke highly of his qualities, Judge Parry described the case as “sad” and characterized McConnell as a “weak man” who sought solace in the company of young children. The judge’s comments underscored the tragic nature of the case and the breach of trust involved.

As a result of his convictions on eight charges, McConnell was sentenced to a total of nine years in custody. The court also issued strict orders to prevent him from contacting the victims, being in the company of anyone under 16 unless an appropriate adult is present, and working with children or vulnerable adults in any capacity.

During the proceedings, McConnell’s defence lawyer, Philip Tully, acknowledged that his client understood he would face imprisonment but maintained that McConnell did not accept the jury’s verdicts. Tully emphasized that there had been no threats, intimidation, or physical harm involved, and insisted that McConnell’s actions were out of character. “There is clearly a completely different side to him than one who commits offences,” Tully stated, attempting to present a more sympathetic view of the defendant amidst the serious charges.