Prestatyn man jailed 10 years for child sex offences

A Prestatyn man who abused a young girl and “frightened her into silence” has been jailed for 10 years at Mold Crown Court.

Karl Taylor, 49, of Brook Park Avenue, was convicted after trial of five child sex offences including assaulting a child by penetration, two counts of assaulting the child by touching, and two counts of causing a child to engage in sexual activity.

The court heard impact statements during sentencing. The victim said no adult, let alone a child, should have been put through this experience and thanked the court for giving them “the freedom to be a child again”.

A relative’s statement described how the sound of the victim sobbing is “etched on her brain” and criticised Taylor’s “selfish desire” to deny the offences. She said: “It gives me peace (that) you are locked up now.”

His Honour Judge Paul Hobson said Taylor had “frightened the child into silence” and left the victim “wondering what (they) had done to deserve the situation”. He noted the victim wrote about the “horrible reality” of what Taylor did in a “measured and mature way”.

The judge said Taylor had shown no remorse and poses a high risk of serious harm to children. He must serve two thirds of his 10-year sentence – over six years – before applying for parole.

Upon release, Taylor will be subject indefinitely to a sexual harm prevention order, sex offender notification requirements and a restraining order.

Detective Constable Catrin-Mai Jones said: “Karl Taylor’s conviction and sentencing today reflect the gravity of the offences committed against a vulnerable child over an extended period. His actions were deeply disturbing, and the impact on the victim has been profound.

“I want to commend the bravery of the young girl and (their) family, whose courage in coming forward and supporting the investigation has been instrumental in securing this outcome.

“North Wales Police remains committed to protecting children and pursuing those who exploit or harm them. We hope today’s sentence provides some measure of justice and reassurance to the victim and her loved ones.

“We urge anyone who has concerns about child sexual abuse – past or present – to contact us. You will be listened to, and support is available.” 💙