ALAN HARRIES FROM LLANELLI AND SUTTON JAILED FOR DECADES-OLD SEX CRIMES

In a case that underscores the importance of reporting historic crimes, Alan Harries, a man with connections to Llanelli and Sutton, has been sentenced to six months in prison for serious sexual offences committed over three decades ago. The charges stem from disturbing acts carried out against a young boy during the 1970s, with Harries now facing justice after a lengthy investigation.

Harries, a former railway worker, was taken into custody at his residence in Llanelli, South Wales, on April 17. His arrest followed a tip from a concerned member of the public who brought to the attention of authorities allegations of indecent acts on the railway network dating back more than 30 years. The British Transport Police (BTP) swiftly responded to this information, initiating an investigation that would eventually lead to charges against Harries.

Detective Inspector Paul Langley of the BTP revealed that the victim, who was only 12 years old at the time of the offences, came forward last September to report the incidents. During police interviews, Harries, now aged 67, admitted to two separate offences, which involved indecent conduct towards a minor. The court proceedings detailed the disturbing nature of the crimes, which had remained suppressed in the victim’s memory for over three decades.

The court heard that Harries had established a troubling relationship with the young boy at Sutton station, where the victim was traveling to and from school. Harries would sometimes offer the boy lifts home if he missed his train, creating an inappropriate bond. The situation escalated when Harries allegedly lured the boy into a store room at the station, where he was subsequently locked inside while Harries engaged in masturbation in front of him. This act of abuse was a deeply traumatic event for the victim, who had kept it hidden for many years.

Further disturbing details emerged during the trial. Harries reportedly picked up the boy from his home on another occasion, taking him on a train journey to Portsmouth Harbour. On the return trip, Harries directed the boy into a first-class compartment, where he again engaged in sexual misconduct in front of the young passenger. The victim was left profoundly disturbed by these experiences, but he chose to suppress the memories for over 30 years, until the recent investigation.

Authorities were able to track Harries using old railway union membership records, which helped establish his whereabouts during the time of the offences. During his police interview, Harries reportedly expressed an intention to have sex with the boy, revealing a disturbing predilection that had persisted for decades. It was also disclosed that Harries had a prior conviction for an indecent offence in 1959, although he had not been involved in similar activities since 1972.

Harries was sentenced on Friday to six months in prison for the two charges, with the court ordering him to serve half of that term. Additionally, he was immediately placed on the sex offenders’ register, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities. Detective Inspector Langley emphasized the significance of the victim’s detailed account, which greatly aided the investigation despite the passage of so many years. Detective Sergeant Paddy Kerr of the BTP Area Crime Unit highlighted the importance of public cooperation in reporting historic crimes, stating that such allegations are taken seriously regardless of how much time has elapsed. Kerr reaffirmed the commitment of law enforcement to pursue justice, demonstrating that even crimes committed over 30 years ago can be prosecuted and punished.