PETER PENDLEBURY'S DECADES OF CHILD ABUSE IN RUTHIN LEADS TO 18-YEAR JAIL SENTENCE

In a case that has shocked the community of Ruthin and the wider Denbighshire area, Peter Pendlebury, a 71-year-old man, has been sentenced to 18 years in prison after admitting to a series of heinous child sex offences spanning nearly four decades. The crimes, which took place between 1977 and 2014, were committed by Pendlebury in various locations across Denbighshire, with the offences culminating in the rape of a child, a development that marked the darkest point of his long-standing pattern of abuse.

During a court hearing at Caernarfon Crown Court, Pendlebury pleaded guilty to 18 charges related to child sexual offences. His bail address was listed as Ruthin, a town in North Wales, where he had resided during the period in which the crimes occurred. The court was told that Pendlebury’s actions represented an “evil and determined campaign” of abuse, carried out over many years, exploiting his position of trust and manipulating vulnerable victims.

Judge Philip Harris-Jenkins addressed Pendlebury directly, noting that although the defendant admitted to the offences at a relatively late stage, his guilty plea resulted in a reduction of his sentence from the original 20 years to 18. The judge also explained that Pendlebury would be eligible to apply for parole after serving half of his sentence, which is standard procedure in such cases. Additionally, Pendlebury is required to register as a sex offender and will be subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, which will restrict any future contact with children and impose other conditions aimed at protecting the public.

Judge Harris-Jenkins remarked that Pendlebury’s behaviour had worsened over time, ultimately leading to the rape of a child, a crime that underscored the severity of his misconduct. Following the sentencing, Detective Constable Katie Ellis of North Wales Police’s Protecting Vulnerable People Unit in St Asaph issued a statement emphasizing the gravity of the case. She praised the victims for their courage in coming forward and standing up to their abuser, highlighting their strength throughout the police investigation.

DC Ellis also reaffirmed the police’s commitment to supporting victims of sexual offences, noting that North Wales Police’s Amethyst Team provides specialized services to assist those affected. She urged anyone who has been a victim of sexual abuse to come forward, reassuring them that support is available. For victims who are not yet ready to report, confidential help can be accessed through the Amethyst SARC Helpline at 0808 156 3658. The police’s firm stance in this case sends a clear message that such serious offences will be met with lengthy prison sentences and comprehensive support for victims, reinforcing the community’s commitment to safeguarding its most vulnerable members.