WILLIAM MCKECHNIE FROM PORT TALBOT SENTENCED TO SIX YEARS FOR HORRIFIC SEXUAL ABUSE IN WEST WALES

In a case that has shocked the community of Port Talbot and the surrounding areas, William McKechnie, aged 88, has been sentenced to six years in prison after being found guilty of sexually abusing a young girl during visits to Oxwich beach in the 1990s. The court heard that the abuse took place over a period when the victim was between nine and eleven years old, a traumatic experience that would leave lasting scars.

McKechnie, who was present in court, admitted to multiple charges, including attempted rape. During the proceedings, he listened through headphones as the court detailed the extent of his crimes, which had remained undisclosed for many years. The judge emphasized the profound and enduring impact the abuse had on the victim, who only came forward and reported the incidents many years later, highlighting the long delay in seeking justice.

In addition to his prison sentence, William McKechnie was ordered to register as a sex offender for the remainder of his life, a measure aimed at protecting the community from potential future harm. Furthermore, he was issued a sexual harm prevention order, restricting his activities and contact to prevent any further offenses. The judge condemned McKechnie’s actions as heinous, underscoring the severity of his crimes and the importance of holding offenders accountable to serve as a deterrent to others.

This case underscores the importance of vigilance and the need for victims to come forward, regardless of how much time has passed, to ensure justice is served and to protect others from similar harm.