KENNETH DOBSON SENTENCED TO NINE YEARS FOR RAPE IN CONWY AND KINMEL BAY

In a case that has shocked the local communities of Conwy and Kinmel Bay, Kenneth Dobson, a 74-year-old resident of Kinmel Bay, was sentenced to nine years in prison after being convicted of raping a 14-year-old boy. The incident, which took place over a decade ago, involved Dobson luring the young teenager with alcohol before committing the assault.

The victim, a teenage boy with a shared interest in amateur radio, had looked up to Dobson, who was known in the community for his hobby. However, the trust placed in Dobson was severely betrayed when he exploited that admiration for his own sexual gratification. Dobson admitted to indecently assaulting the boy, but the jury at Caernarfon Crown Court found him guilty of the more serious charge of rape.

During the sentencing hearing, Judge Niclas Parry emphasized the gravity of the case, highlighting that the victim had “idolised” Dobson at the time. The judge described the incident as a “gross breach of trust” and a targeted attack on a vulnerable child. In his remarks, Judge Parry stated, “This case involved a gross breach of trust and targeting of a child,” underscoring the severity of Dobson’s actions.

Addressing the defendant directly, Judge Parry remarked, “You came to see him as an object on whom you could satisfy your sexual urges.” The court’s decision was supported by the prosecution and was welcomed by North Wales Police, who stated that the sentence appropriately reflected the seriousness of the crime.

Defense counsel Sion ap Mihangel acknowledged the heinous nature of the offences, describing them as “abhorrent,” and noted that Dobson recognized the gravity of his actions. The case has left a lasting impact on the communities of Conwy and Kinmel Bay, raising concerns about trust and safety within local social circles.