RONALD BAKER FROM LLANHILLETH SENTENCED FOR DECADES OF SEX OFFENCES AGAINST CHILDREN IN GWENT

In a disturbing case that spanned over thirty years, Ronald Baker, a 60-year-old man from Llanhilleth, has admitted to a series of serious sexual offences committed against young children in the region of Gwent. The court proceedings revealed a long history of criminal behavior, with Baker pleading guilty to multiple counts related to indecent acts involving minors.

Initially, Baker faced charges of indecent assault against two girls under the age of 14. These offences took place during two separate periods: the first between December 10, 1970, and December 11, 1972, and the second between September 15, 1993, and September 16, 1994. The court heard that Baker's actions during these times caused significant trauma to his young victims, who were unable to escape his predatory behavior.

In addition to these assaults, Baker was also charged with indecency with a child under 16, which he admitted to committing between March 12, 2004, and April 30, 2004. Furthermore, he was found guilty of inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, an offence that occurred from May 2004 through December 2006. These recent offences highlight a disturbing pattern of predatory conduct that persisted over decades.

Prosecutor David Webster emphasized the emotional toll on one of Baker’s victims, who was assaulted during the 1993-1994 period. He explained that the victim had been overwhelmed with fear and trepidation at the prospect of giving evidence in court. “It took a very considerable leap of courage even to commit her complaint to writing,” Webster stated, underscoring the bravery of the victims who came forward.

During the hearing, Baker’s initial plea of not guilty was changed to guilty before the trial commenced, reflecting his acknowledgment of the charges against him. The court sentenced him to five and a half years in prison. It was also stipulated that Baker must serve at least three-quarters of his sentence before being eligible for release. Upon his release, he will remain under supervision on license until the completion of his sentence, with an additional two-year period of monitoring.

In addition to his imprisonment, Baker has been ordered to register as a sex offender for life, a measure designed to protect the community from further harm. He has also been disqualified from working with girls under the age of 18, effectively barring him from employment or volunteer roles that involve contact with minors. The case serves as a stark reminder of the long-lasting impact of sexual abuse and the importance of justice for victims in Gwent and beyond.