RYAN GOUGH FROM PRESTATYN FOUND GUILTY OF HISTORICAL SEXUAL ASSAULT ON BOY IN CAERNARFON

In June 2018, a significant courtroom verdict was delivered in Caernarfon Crown Court concerning a serious allegation of historical sexual assault involving a young boy. The defendant, Ryan Gough, aged 28 and residing in Prestatyn, Denbighshire, was accused of a disturbing incident that allegedly took place over a decade earlier.

According to the prosecution, Ryan Gough-Hughes, who was a teenager at the time of the incident, engaged in a disturbing act during a game of 'hide-and-seek' on a mountain. Prosecutor Richard Edwards detailed that Gough-Hughes had tied the young boy’s hands behind his back and, during this act, removed the boy’s clothing before sexually touching him. The victim was only nine years old at the time of the alleged assault.

Gough-Hughes, who denied the allegations throughout the trial, faced a jury composed of seven men and five women. After careful deliberation that lasted five hours and fifteen minutes, the jury reached a verdict. By a majority of 10 to 2, they found Gough-Hughes guilty of the sexual offence. The moment the verdict was announced, the defendant was visibly emotional, breaking down in tears in the courtroom dock as the jury foreman delivered the decision.

Following the verdict, Judge Mr. Recorder Peter Rouch QC addressed the court. He explained that, under normal circumstances, the defendant would be facing a substantial custodial sentence. However, given Gough-Hughes’ age at the time of the offence, the judge acknowledged the complexity of sentencing in this case. He described the sentencing process as a 'difficult exercise' and indicated that he would consider all factors carefully.

Judge Rouch requested pre-sentence reports from both the defence and prosecution to determine an appropriate punishment. He clarified that the court was not necessarily inclined to impose a custodial sentence but would consider all relevant circumstances before making a final decision.

Meanwhile, Gough-Hughes’ unconditional bail was extended until the sentencing hearing scheduled for the following month. As part of the legal process, he will also be required to register on the sex offenders register, reflecting the seriousness of the conviction and the ongoing monitoring that will follow.

This case highlights the enduring impact of historical abuse allegations and the importance of justice for victims, regardless of the passage of time.