A man, Ronald Richards Port Talbot Paedophile, who planned a two-decade-long campaign of rape, abusing two young girls over 110 instances, has been incarcerated. Ronald Richards, 66, was jailed at Swansea Crown Court on Tuesday, March 11, following the revelation of his crimes when one of his victims wept years later.
The court was presented with distressing accounts of the abuse, as prosecutor Ian Wright detailed how Ronald Richards raped his initial victim no fewer than 60 times while she was under 13 and persisted in the abuse when she was under 16. His second victim was subjected to rape on no fewer than 50 instances prior to her thirteenth birthday. Both victims testified in court regarding the enduring effects of their experiences.
A victim testified in court: “I cannot recall a moment when I did not experience anxiety or a sense of dread in my stomach.” I relocated from my hometown in pursuit of safety. I had to feign contentment, however I have never truly been able to express my authentic self.
She remembered experiencing flashbacks and suicidal ideation, stating: “He deprived me of my childhood and innocence.”
The second victim stated, “I am uncertain about my feelings.” I have repressed a significant amount. I felt compelled to comply with his directives. The most excruciating aspect for me is viewing old photographs of myself from before to this occurrence.
Defence attorney Ieuan Rees informed the court that Ronald Richards is in compromised health, afflicted with diabetes and declining vision, and conceded that his sentence will probably result in him spending the remainder of his life in jail.
Ronald Richards was found guilty of 14 charges, encompassing several counts of child rape under 13, child rape under 16, child sexual assault, indecency with a minor, and indecent assault.
Judge Geraint Walters sentenced Ronald Richards to 25 years in prison—24 years of a determinate sentence plus a one-year extended term—stating: “You systematically abused two young children in an unspeakable manner.” The repercussions of such torture are enduring.
Ronald Richards, hailing from Port Talbot, must complete two-thirds of his sentence prior to being eligible for parole. He has been permanently registered as a sex offender and is subject to a lifelong sexual harm prevention order, along with restraining orders that prohibit him from contacting his victims.
After the sentencing, Detective Constable Joanne Williams of South Wales Police commended the victims’ courage, stating to The Pembrokeshire Herald: “Experiencing this degree of abuse from such a young age is abhorrent.”
The victims will bear these memories for the remainder of their life. Ronald Richards is a perilous individual who exploits vulnerable children.
The magnitude and regularity of his offences were astonishing. It is appropriate for him to serve a substantial prison sentence.
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