PHILIP DALLY FROM PONTYPOOL SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL OFFENSES INVOLVING UNDER-AGE GIRL IN CARDIFF

In a case that has shocked the local community of Pontypool and the wider Cardiff area, Philip Dally, aged 46, has been sentenced to five years in prison after being found guilty of engaging in sexual activities with a girl under the age of 16. The court heard that Dally, who resides on Lower Leigh Road in Pontypool, had a disturbing online relationship with the under-age girl, during which he exchanged more than 10,000 messages. These communications revealed a pattern of grooming behavior, with Dally manipulating the girl and attempting to conceal her true age.

Prosecutors detailed how Dally bought the girl a modest £25 engagement ring, which was described as a symbol of his inappropriate attachment. The court was also informed that the girl was required to take a pregnancy test, a situation that Dally reacted to with offensive comments, further highlighting his disregard for her well-being. Additionally, Dally asked her to delete any information that could reveal her age, an act that underscored his awareness of the illegality of his actions.

During the trial, Dally claimed that he believed the girl was 17 years old and suggested that she had initiated their contact. However, Cardiff Crown Court Judge Tom Crowther dismissed this explanation as a typical excuse used by offenders, describing it as the “eternal lament of a paedophile.” The court found that Dally’s account was unconvincing and that he was fully aware of the nature of his misconduct.

In a plea deal, Dally admitted to four counts of sexual activity with a girl under 16. Judge Crowther, delivering the sentence, emphasized the seriousness of his actions, stating, “You knew what you were doing. You knew what you were doing was wrong.” The impact on the victim was evident, as the prosecutor, John Probert, told the court that the girl had begun to self-harm and was experiencing sleep difficulties as a result of the contact.

Defense lawyer Ruth Smith acknowledged that her client’s mitigation was limited but highlighted that Dally had pleaded guilty and had previously maintained a good character, with a history of steady employment and a productive life. Despite these factors, the judge made it clear that Dally’s actions warranted a significant custodial sentence.

Judge Crowther ordered that Dally serve half of his five-year sentence in prison, with the remaining time to be served on license. Furthermore, a sexual offences prevention order was imposed, restricting Dally’s contact with children and aiming to prevent any future harm. The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of online grooming and the importance of safeguarding vulnerable minors in the digital age.