WILLIAM CORFIELD FROM CLATTER AND CAERSWS SENTENCED FOR CHILD ABUSE IN POWYS

In a case that has shocked the local communities of Caersws and Clatter, William Corfield, a 47-year-old man from Clatter near Caersws, Powys, has been sentenced to five years in prison after admitting to a series of serious sexual offenses involving children.

Corfield, who is paraplegic, pleaded guilty to a total of 20 charges, including 19 counts of sexual assault on minors and one charge of causing a child to observe a sexual act. The offences involved two victims, both under the age of 12, and took place within the local area, causing significant distress to the children and their families.

The case was heard at Mold Crown Court, where the prosecution, led by Simon Mills, detailed the disturbing nature of Corfield’s crimes. It was revealed that Corfield had not only sexually assaulted the young victims but also exposed them to pornography, actions that left deep emotional scars. The impact on the children was described as profoundly distressing, with their families expressing devastation and heartbreak over the betrayal of trust.

During the sentencing, the judge emphasized the seriousness and persistence of Corfield’s offending. The court heard how the victims’ parents, who had always prided themselves on being good caregivers, felt their efforts had been shattered by Corfield’s actions. The children, as a result, had lost confidence and suffered emotional trauma, which the court acknowledged as a lasting consequence of the abuse.

In his defense, Corfield’s lawyer, Des Parry, highlighted the hardships the defendant had faced in his youth, including catastrophic injuries sustained as a teenager. Despite these challenges, Corfield had managed to hold down a responsible job as a production manager at the Laura Ashley clothing company and had contributed positively to his community. A psychiatric report presented in court indicated that Corfield was aware of his need for help and was willing to seek treatment.

Furthermore, the defense team presented glowing references attesting to Corfield’s character and his early acknowledgment of his wrongdoings. It was also noted that Corfield had no prior criminal record and had expressed a desire from the outset to avoid forcing his victims to testify in court.

As part of his sentence, Corfield was ordered to register as a sex offender for life. The court also imposed strict restrictions, including a ban on ever working with children and a prohibition on having unsupervised contact with anyone under the age of 16. The judge, John Rogers QC, took into account Corfield’s physical disabilities and the potential difficulties he would face in custody when determining the length and conditions of his imprisonment.