DANIEL BEARD FROM GWERUYLDT, WREXHAM, SENTENCED FOR CHILD PORNOGRAPHY OFFENSES

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the community of Wrexham, Daniel James Beard, a 24-year-old resident of Maes y Coed in Gwersyllt, was found guilty of serious offenses involving a minor. The incident dates back to February 2013, when Beard, then 23, was involved in the creation and possession of indecent images of a 14-year-old girl.

According to court records, Beard took a topless photograph of the young girl, who was only 14 years old at the time. The disturbing nature of the case was compounded when police discovered a second photograph on his phone, which the girl herself had taken and subsequently sent to him. This evidence highlighted the inappropriate and exploitative nature of their interaction.

Daniel Beard faced multiple charges, including taking an indecent photograph and possessing such an image. During the proceedings at Mold Crown Court, Beard admitted to these charges. However, he denied allegations of meeting the girl for the purpose of sexual grooming. The prosecution later accepted that no sexual activity had taken place between them, leading to the dropping of the grooming charge.

In sentencing, Judge Rhys Rowlands described the offenses as serious and “rather disturbing,” emphasizing the gravity of the case. Beard was sentenced to 14 months in prison, but this sentence was suspended for two years, meaning he would not serve time unless he committed further offenses within that period. Additionally, Beard was placed under supervision and mandated to participate in a community sex offender treatment program, aimed at rehabilitation and monitoring.

Furthermore, the judge ordered Beard to be registered on the sex offender register for ten years. He was also subjected to a ten-year Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO), which prohibits him from having any contact with children under the age of 16 unless explicitly approved by social services. These measures are designed to prevent any future offenses and protect vulnerable minors in the community.

Overall, the case has raised significant concerns among residents and authorities alike, highlighting the ongoing issues related to child exploitation and the importance of stringent legal measures to safeguard minors from predatory behavior.