BENJAMIN ROBERTS SENTENCED IN LLANDRINDOD WELLS FOR CHILD SEXUAL ASSAULT AND ABUSE

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Llandrindod Wells and the surrounding areas, Benjamin Roberts, aged 27, from Howey near Llandrindod Wells, has been convicted and sentenced for heinous acts involving a young child. The incident, which took place in May 2009, involved the brutal assault and sexual abuse of a toddler, leading to severe injuries and a lengthy legal process.

Roberts was found guilty in Merthyr Crown Court of causing actual bodily harm to the child and committing a sexual assault on a child under the age of 13. The court heard harrowing details of the child's injuries, which prompted immediate hospitalisation. The young victim was admitted with multiple traumatic injuries, including a significant swelling on his head that increased in size by approximately 50%, and hair loss from the back and sides of his scalp. Medical reports indicated bleeding beneath the scalp, bruising behind both ears, and black eyes, all indicative of severe physical trauma.

Prosecutor Ieuan Morris emphasized that the injuries sustained by the child were not consistent with typical rough-and-tumble play, suggesting deliberate harm. The court was also informed that the child had suffered injuries of a sexual nature, adding a deeply disturbing dimension to the case. Despite the evidence, Roberts maintained his innocence, denying the charges and failing to provide any explanation for the injuries inflicted upon the young boy.

During the sentencing hearing, Judge John Curran described the case as particularly grave. Roberts was sentenced to a total of six years in prison, comprising a four-year term for the sexual assault and an additional two years on licence, which extends his supervision after release. Additionally, he received a 15-month sentence for causing actual bodily harm, to be served concurrently. The judge ordered Roberts to register as a sex offender for life, a measure that underscores the severity of his crimes.

Furthermore, Roberts was disqualified from working with children and was prohibited from living with or communicating with any child under the age of 13 unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. The court also noted that the bleeding beneath the child's scalp was described by a consultant paediatrician as an injury of a type not previously encountered in their practice, highlighting the extraordinary nature of the injuries inflicted.

This case has left a lasting impact on the community of Llandrindod Wells, raising concerns about child safety and the importance of vigilance in protecting vulnerable children from harm.