EMYR OWEN CAERNARFON PENSIONER SENTENCED FOR INTERNET CHILD ABUSE IMAGES

In November 2010, a serious case unfolded involving Emyr Owen, a 74-year-old former teacher from Caernarfon, who was found guilty of possessing and sharing explicit images depicting the sexual abuse of young boys. Owen, residing at Rhiw, St David's Road in Caernarfon, appeared before Caernarfon Crown Court to face the charges after admitting to a total of 17 offences related to the possession and distribution of indecent images.

The case came to light following a police search of Owen’s residence, where officers discovered a disturbing collection of digital material stored on two of his computers. Prosecutor Tom Jones revealed that among the 338 images uncovered, some depicted boys as young as six years old. These images were not only stored but also exchanged with a contact in America, whom Owen had met through the internet.

During the court proceedings, Owen, who has white hair and was seen wearing spectacles, attempted to justify his actions by claiming that his viewing habits were purely based on fantasy and bore no relation to real-life abuse. He insisted, “It was all fantasy and not related to real-life. I wouldn’t do anything like that in real life.” Despite this, the evidence presented was deeply troubling, showing a pattern of disturbing behavior motivated by curiosity, boredom, and loneliness, as stated by prosecutor Tom Jones.

Owen’s defence lawyer, Owen Edwards, expressed remorse on his behalf, stating, “For the last 18 months he’s had to live with this shame. He’s supported in court by his sister with whom he lives. He fell into temptation because of the internet. He is pleased that the police arrived because that stopped his activities.” It was also noted that several local religious leaders had written letters of support for Owen, highlighting the complexity of his character and circumstances.

However, the presiding judge, His Honour Judge Niclas Parry, was unequivocal in his condemnation. He emphasized the gravity of the images, stating, “The images showed the sexual abuse of young boys. You were viewing real children.” Judge Parry acknowledged Owen’s long career in education but pointed out that his actions revealed a disturbing craving for human contact, which he described as “extremely sad.”

In sentencing Owen, Judge Parry imposed a three-year community and supervision order. Owen was also ordered to remain on the Sexual Offenders Register, prohibited from working with children or vulnerable adults, and barred from residing in any home with a child under 18 unless an adult or parent was present. Additionally, Owen was ordered to pay £1,200 in court costs, and his computers are to be destroyed to prevent further misuse. The case underscores the ongoing concerns about internet-related child exploitation and the importance of rigorous law enforcement in addressing such heinous crimes.