JOHN HAYNES FROM CARMARTHEN AND SWANTON MORLEY SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE IN NORWICH

In a case that has shocked the local communities of Carmarthen and Swanton Morley, a former army corporal named John Haynes has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term after being found guilty of sexually abusing a young girl over a period of seven years. The heinous acts, which began when the girl was just six years old, involved multiple instances of rape and indecency, and the abuse reportedly escalated as Haynes manipulated and groomed his young victim.

Haynes, aged 37 at the time of sentencing, previously resided in Swanton Morley, Norfolk, but has since moved to Carmarthen, Wales. He faced trial at Norwich Crown Court, where he was charged with 11 counts of rape and four counts of indecency. Throughout the proceedings, Haynes maintained his innocence, denying all allegations against him.

The court was informed that the sexual abuse started early in the child's life and worsened over time as Haynes gained her trust and manipulated her. The details of the case revealed a disturbing pattern of grooming, which left lasting scars on the young girl. The court heard that the trauma inflicted by Haynes would likely stay with her for the rest of her life.

During the trial, Cynthia Cruickshank, representing Haynes, expressed her client's bewilderment and distress. She stated, “He is bewildered and upset. He strenuously maintains his innocence. He has lost everything since the allegations were made. His job, home, and wife, all in a short space of time.”

In delivering the sentence, Deputy High Court Judge Sir John Blofeld emphasized the severity of the crime and its impact on the victim. He remarked, “No doubt the child's experiences will live with her to her dying day. The tragedy is when young children are prevailed upon to accept unwelcome caresses, they feel guilty, and by telling the truth, she will feel responsible for you serving a long prison sentence.”

As part of his punishment, Haynes has been placed on the sex offenders' register for life and is now prohibited from working with children in any capacity. The case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating effects of child abuse and the importance of safeguarding vulnerable minors from predators.