MARK CASTON FROM BETTWS SENTENCED TO 13 YEARS FOR RAPE AND SEXUAL ASSAULT IN NEWPORT

In a case that has shocked the community of Newport and the surrounding areas, Mark Caston, a resident of Bettws, has been sentenced to a total of 13 years in prison following a series of heinous sexual offences involving two teenage girls.

Caston, aged 46, was convicted in July of six separate sexual offences committed against the two victims. The court proceedings revealed disturbing details about the nature of his crimes, which spanned over a two-year period and involved vulnerable young women.

The sentencing took place at Cardiff Crown Court, where the judge outlined the severity of Caston’s actions. It was established that in late 2015, Caston sexually assaulted a 16-year-old girl on two separate occasions. During these incidents, the court heard that the victim was heavily intoxicated, which the judge described as a factor that left her particularly vulnerable. Judge Fitton stated that the teenager was “strongly under the influence of alcohol” when Caston “made his move,” forcing her to perform oral sex against her will during the first incident.

Further details from the court indicated that during the second assault, the same victim was alone at the time when Caston pushed her onto a sofa and raped her. The judge emphasized her vulnerable state at the time, describing her as “a vulnerable young woman.” He also pointed out that Caston exploited her vulnerability to gain access and commit these offences.

Adding to the gravity of the case, the court heard that in November 2017, while Caston was already on bail pending trial for the initial offences, he targeted a second teenage girl. This victim was also alone when Caston took the opportunity to make a move. He put his hand down her top, removed her bra, and kissed her breast, actions that constituted sexual assault.

For the first four offences related to the initial victim, including the rape, Caston was sentenced to 12 years in prison. An additional year was added to his sentence for the two offences involving the second victim, to be served consecutively. The court also ordered Caston to sign the sex offenders register, a requirement that will be in effect indefinitely. Furthermore, a restraining order was issued to prevent any contact with both victims, ensuring their safety and peace of mind.

Caston’s crimes have left a lasting impact on the victims and the community, highlighting the importance of justice and the protection of vulnerable individuals from predatory behavior.