DAVID ROBERTS CAERNARFON SEX ATTACK: TAXI DRIVER SENTENCED TO NINE YEARS FOR GROOMING 14-YEAR-OLD GIRL

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Caernarfon, a local taxi driver named David Roberts has been sentenced to nine years in prison after being convicted of sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl. The incident took place in October of the previous year, and the court proceedings revealed the disturbing details of the attack that occurred late on October 31.

Roberts, aged 43 and residing at Bro Rhos, Bethel, Caernarfon, appeared before Caernarfon Crown Court to face sentencing after his conviction on charges of rape and sexual assault. The court heard that Roberts had initially picked up the young girl, who was visibly intoxicated and wandering alone in the streets of Caernarfon after becoming separated from her friends during a night out. Despite her state of intoxication, Roberts offered to give her a ride home, claiming he was concerned for her safety and that she had no money for transportation.

However, the situation took a sinister turn during the journey. According to court reports, Roberts began to sexually touch the girl while driving. The incident escalated when he pulled into an industrial area on the outskirts of Llanberis, where he forcibly engaged in a sexual act with her. The girl, terrified and confused, managed to escape from the vehicle and walked for miles through unfamiliar territory before she was able to find help and report the assault.

During the sentencing hearing, Judge Merfyn Hughes QC emphasized the severity of Roberts' actions. He stated that Roberts had been convicted based on overwhelming evidence of rape. The judge condemned Roberts for exploiting the girl’s vulnerable state, noting that he had taken advantage of her drunkenness and her trust as a passenger. The judge remarked, “You saw the 14-year-old girl and realized she was very drunk and you took advantage of her. You gave her a lift, a matter she was no doubt grateful for. But, during the journey, you became attracted to her and took her to an isolated area and forced her to carry out a sexual act.”

Judge Hughes also highlighted the breach of trust inherent in Roberts’ role as a taxi driver, emphasizing that such a position of responsibility was gravely violated. While acknowledging that no violence was involved and noting Roberts’s previous good character, the judge made it clear that the offense was serious and warranted a significant custodial sentence. Roberts was ordered to serve half of his nine-year term before being eligible for parole. Additionally, upon release, he will be required to report his address to the police indefinitely. The court also imposed a lifelong ban preventing Roberts from working with children in any capacity.

Roberts had denied both rape and sexual assault, claiming that he was the victim in the incident. His defense argued that he took a realistic view of the situation, acknowledging that he faced a lengthy jail sentence. His barrister, John Wyn Williams, stated, “He continues to deny the offence. It is still his position that he is the victim.”

This case has sparked widespread concern within the Caernarfon community, raising questions about safety and the responsibilities of service providers in protecting vulnerable individuals. The court’s decision underscores the seriousness with which such offenses are regarded and the importance of safeguarding minors from exploitation and harm.