JOHN HOWELLS FROM TIARGWAITH SENTENCED TO 10 YEARS FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF GIRLS IN CARDIFF

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the local community, John Howells, a 66-year-old resident of Lauderdale Road in the village of Tairgwaith, was sentenced to a decade behind bars at Cardiff Crown Court for heinous sexual offenses involving two young girls. The court found Howells guilty of a total of 17 separate charges, which included indecent assault and acts of gross indecency committed against the minors.

Judge David Wynn Morgan, presiding over the case, expressed his grave concern about the danger Howells poses to children. He stated, "I regard you as a grave risk to children aged between six and 16," emphasizing the severity of the crimes and the potential threat to other children in the community.

Following the sentencing, the judge ordered that upon his release, Howells must register as a sex offender for the rest of his life. Additionally, he was explicitly banned from ever working with children again, a measure aimed at preventing any future harm.

During the proceedings, the courtroom was filled with members of the public, and the judge acknowledged the emotional toll of the case. He remarked, "The sentence I am going to pass is going to cause a great deal of distress to people here," highlighting the impact of the crimes on the victims and their families.

It was revealed that Howells had committed these offenses while residing in Newport and Gwent, but the court noted that the allegations spanned many years and involved calculated, premeditated acts. The seriousness of the crimes was underscored by the fact that the victims had shown remarkable bravery in giving evidence against him.

Judge Morgan pointed out that the offenses were not only extensive but also deeply damaging, with no regard for the well-being of the children involved. "You abused innocent children. Your behavior has caused damage that was evident," he said. Despite the overwhelming evidence, Howells continued to deny the allegations throughout the trial.

Defense attorney David Webster argued that the crimes, while devastating, did not amount to rape. He also highlighted that Howells has a handicapped son who would suffer from the fallout of his actions. Webster further noted that Howells suffers from arthritis, diabetes, and hearing difficulties, and emphasized that upon release, he would be an elderly man. The court was urged to consider these factors, but the judge maintained that the severity of the crimes warranted a lengthy sentence.