STEPHEN ROBERTS FROM HAREFIELD AND WREXHAM SENTENCED FOR SICKENING SEXUAL ATTACK ON YOUNG GIRL
In a case that has shocked the local communities of Wrexham and Harefield, Stephen Roberts, aged 42, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term of 14 years after being found guilty of a heinous sexual assault on a young girl.The incident, which took place in the Wrexham area during the 1990s, involved Roberts raping a girl who was approximately nine years old at the time.
Roberts, who has a troubling criminal history, initially denied the allegations, claiming he was not responsible for the assault.
However, after a retrial at Mold Crown Court, a jury found him guilty of the serious charge of raping a girl under the age of 13.
The court proceedings revealed that Roberts had been brought up in children’s homes across North Wales, which added context to his background and history.
Following his conviction, Judge Niclas Parry, presiding at Mold Crown Court, addressed Roberts directly, condemning his actions as “a sickening act of the violation of a child.” The judge emphasized the severity of the crime, noting that it was compounded by the significant age disparity between Roberts and his young victim, as well as Roberts’ extensive and troubling criminal record.
As part of his sentence, Roberts was ordered to register as a sex offender for life, a measure designed to monitor and prevent any future offenses.
The court’s decision underscores the gravity of the crime and the need for ongoing vigilance in cases involving sexual offenses against minors.
Prosecutor Mark Connor provided additional details about Roberts’ criminal history, revealing a pattern of predatory behavior.
Connor stated that Roberts had previously been convicted of indecency with a child at the age of 13, and of indecent exposure at 15.
Further, in 2000, when Roberts was 29, he was convicted of sexual assault on a girl under 16.
His criminal record also includes a conviction for rape and indecent assault in 2003, illustrating a long-standing pattern of sexual misconduct.
Roberts’ case has drawn significant attention due to the disturbing nature of his crimes and his history of offending.
The court’s verdict and sentencing serve as a stark reminder of the importance of protecting vulnerable children and ensuring that those who commit such acts are held accountable for their actions.
