SEAN MEEHAN FROM SWANSEA SENTENCED TO 12 YEARS FOR CHILD RAPE AND SEXUAL ASSAULT

In September 2013, a man from Swansea named Sean Patrick Meehan was handed a severe prison sentence after being convicted of multiple heinous crimes involving the sexual abuse of young girls. The court heard that Meehan, who had initially denied the charges, eventually pleaded guilty to four serious offenses, including one count of raping a girl under the age of 13 between the years 2008 and 2012, two additional counts of raping other children under 13 in 2009, and a sexual assault on a child under 13.

During his initial court appearance at Swansea Magistrates' Court, Meehan entered a plea of not guilty. However, before the case proceeded to a full trial at Swansea Crown Court, he changed his plea to guilty on all counts. The prosecution, led by John Hipkin, provided detailed accounts of the abuse, revealing the disturbing nature of Meehan’s actions.

Mr. Hipkin explained that the first charge involved a young girl who was only seven years old at the time of the abuse. When her mother inquired about the number of times her daughter had been subjected to these acts, the girl responded that it had happened “too many” times. The girl was unable to specify the exact number of incidents, but it was clear from her response that the abuse was repeated and ongoing.

Another charge involved a girl aged between four and five years old. The court was informed that Meehan sexually assaulted her while she was on a bus, an incident that could have been witnessed by other children present at the time. This detail underscored the disturbing nature of the crimes, highlighting the vulnerability of the victims and the breach of trust involved.

Judge Mervyn Hughes QC sentenced Meehan to 12 years in prison. In his remarks, the judge condemned Meehan’s systematic abuse, describing it as a gross betrayal of the trust placed in him by the young victims. The judge also noted Meehan’s lack of insight into his offending behavior and his distorted view of sexual relationships. Furthermore, Judge Hughes emphasized that Meehan would not be eligible for release until the parole board determines that it is safe for him to be released, considering the ongoing risk he poses to the public, especially children.

As part of his sentence, Meehan was also ordered to report to the police for the rest of his life, reflecting the serious concern about his potential to reoffend and the need for continued monitoring to protect the community from further harm.