DAVID AND THOMAS HOWITT FROM NARBERTH, WATTSTOWN, AND WHITLAND SENTENCED FOR 1970S SEX OFFENCES

In a case that has shocked the local communities of Narberth, Wattstown, and Whitland, two brothers, David Howitt and Thomas Howitt, have been brought to justice for serious sexual offences committed during the 1970s. The convictions stem from a lengthy investigation that uncovered disturbing acts carried out by the brothers decades ago, with the crimes having left a lasting impact on the victims and the communities involved.

David Howitt, aged 51 at the time of sentencing, was found guilty by a jury at Swansea Crown Court of engaging in a severe sexual assault on a nine-year-old boy, along with other related offences. The court heard harrowing details of the abuse, which took place when the brothers resided in Garfield Gardens. One particularly disturbing incident involved David Howitt placing the barrel of an air rifle into the young victim’s mouth and threatening him to keep silent about what had happened. This act of intimidation was part of a pattern of abuse that spanned several years, according to the evidence presented during the trial.

Thomas Howitt, aged 54, was convicted of indecency with a child. His involvement in the offences was considered less severe than his brother’s, but nonetheless serious enough to warrant a jail sentence. He was sentenced to nine months in prison. The court also ordered Thomas to register as a sex offender for ten years and prohibited him from working with children during that period.

Judge Paul Thomas addressed the court, emphasizing the long-term harm caused by the offences. He pointed out that David Howitt’s actions appeared to have been driven by a depraved excitement, which was further exacerbated by the fact that his brother Thomas seemed to have joined in at one point, although on a different scale. The judge made it clear that such behaviour was unacceptable and had lasting consequences for the victims.

As part of the sentencing, David Howitt was ordered to register with the police as a sex offender for life and was permanently banned from working with children. Thomas Howitt was also required to register for ten years and was restricted from engaging in any employment involving children during that time. The sentences reflect the gravity of the crimes committed and serve as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding vulnerable children from abuse, regardless of how much time has passed since the offences occurred.