Cwmbran Paedophile Jailed for 17 Years After Child Abuse

A paedophile who wore a large crucifix around his neck in court has been jailed for 17 years after sexually abusing a young girl.

Joshua Bennett, 32, from Cwmbran, appeared at Cardiff Crown Court this morning where Judge Daniel Williams told him: “Your days of presenting yourself as a virtuous man are long gone.”

On the day of his trial in July, Bennett admitted assaulting a girl under 13 by penetration, assaulting a girl under 13 by touching and causing/inciting a girl under 13 to engage in sexual activity.

In a victim impact statement, the girl told the court: “I continue to suffer in many ways.” She highlighted her mental health struggles and sleepless nights, adding: “He has inflicted immense pain and abuse.”

The girl’s mother said her daughter had suffered “horrendous sexual abuse” and that she felt “broken” by what had happened to her child.

Judge Williams addressed Bennett directly: “You say you are a churchgoer and today it is conspicuous that you are wearing a large crucifix. Your days of presenting yourself as a virtuous man are long gone.”

The judge continued: “In your pre-sentence report, you sought to minimise your behaviour and not take responsibility for your actions. You deny feeling a sexual attraction to children – you pose a high risk of harm to children.”

Bennett, of Tewdric Court, Croesyceiliog, received an extended sentence of 17 years and six months (13 years and six months in prison plus a four-year extended licence period). He must serve two-thirds of his custodial term before being eligible for parole.

He will register as a sex offender for life and pay a statutory victim surcharge upon release.

Judge Williams praised the victim’s courage in coming forward. 💙