A man from Port Talbot has been sentenced to 25 years in prison after being found guilty of raping two young girls more than 110 times over a period of three decades. Ronald Richards, aged 67, was described in court as having “orchestrated a campaign of rape” that spanned more than 20 years. The harrowing details of his crimes were revealed at Swansea Crown Court, where both victims shared their traumatic experiences.
The first victim, who was under 13 at the time, was raped by Richards on at least 60 occasions, with further assaults occurring when she was under 16. The second victim, also under 13, was raped on at least 50 occasions. Both victims bravely stood in court to recount the horrific effects of the abuse they suffered at the hands of Richards. The prosecution barrister highlighted the severity and extent of the crimes committed by the defendant, stating that the level and frequency of his offending were staggering.
One of the victims expressed the long-lasting impact of the abuse, revealing that it had robbed her of her childhood and innocence. She spoke of the ongoing struggle with anxiety, dread, and flashbacks of the abuse. The second victim shared her confusion and pain, stressing the difficulty of looking at photos from before the abuse started. The court also heard from the defence barrister, who acknowledged Richards’ poor health due to diabetes and failing eyesight.
Following a trial in January, Richards was found guilty of 14 charges, including multiple counts of rape, sexual assault, and indecent assault involving children. The judge, Geraint Walters, condemned Richards for systematically abusing the young victims in an unspeakable manner, stating that the scars of such abuse are lifelong. Richards was sentenced to 24 years of a determinate sentence, extended by one year due to the severity of his crimes.
Detective Constable Joanne Williams of South Wales Police commended the bravery of the victims for coming forward and speaking out against Richards. She emphasised the appalling nature of the abuse inflicted on the young children and highlighted Richards as a dangerous individual who preyed on vulnerable victims. The detective expressed support for the victims, acknowledging the lasting impact of the abuse they endured and affirming that Richards deserved the significant prison term handed down to him.
In addition to the lengthy prison sentence, Richards was instructed to sign the sex offenders’ register, be subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for life, and adhere to lifelong restraining orders preventing any contact with his victims. The court’s decision serves as a message of justice for the victims and a deterrent against perpetrators of such heinous crimes. The case underscores the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions and providing support and protection for survivors of abuse.