ROGER CANTON FROM WREXHAM FACES PRISON AFTER SEXUAL ASSAULTS AT LOCAL POOL
In a case that has shocked the community of Wrexham, Roger Canton, a 68-year-old former swimming instructor and driving teacher residing on Tower View, has been found guilty of serious child sex offenses committed nearly two decades ago.The allegations center around an incident involving a young girl, now in her late twenties, which allegedly took place at the Plas Madoc swimming pool, a popular local recreational facility.
According to court proceedings, Canton was accused of engaging in inappropriate sexual contact with the girl when she was approximately 10 or 11 years old.
The prosecution detailed that the misconduct occurred within the changing rooms of the swimming pool, where Canton allegedly touched the girl in a sexual manner.
It was also claimed that he made her touch him while he was wearing Speedo trunks and instructed her to keep the incident a secret, emphasizing the importance of silence.
Despite denying the charges, Canton was convicted of the offenses and ordered to register as a sex offender with the police.
The court heard that he had a prior conviction for a similar offense dating back to the late 1970s, which added weight to the severity of the case.
The jury was informed that the victim had come forward last year to report the abuse, after having previously confided in a woman during her teenage years.
This woman had documented her account at the time, and a contemporaneous note was presented as evidence, indicating that the victim had disclosed the abuse in 2001.
During the hearing at Mold Crown Court, Judge Niclas Parry granted Canton bail until sentencing but issued a stern warning that he was likely to face a custodial sentence.
The judge emphasized the gravity of the crimes and the impact on the victim, making it clear that prison time was an inevitable outcome.
The prosecution's barrister, Simon Parry, highlighted the disturbing nature of the offenses, which took place in a setting meant for innocent recreation, thereby adding to the community's concern.
Defense attorney Jonathan Duffy argued that his client maintained his innocence and denied any sexual misconduct had occurred.
Despite the defense's efforts, the evidence presented was compelling enough for the jury to convict Canton of the charges.
The case has left many residents of Wrexham questioning the safety of local facilities and the importance of safeguarding children from potential predators within their community.
