Osian Owen

Osian Owen, a 28-year-old man from Min y Ddol, Maesgeirchen, Bangor, has been sentenced to five years in prison for a series of depraved sexual offences against two young girls, both under the age of 13 at the time. The case, heard at Mold Crown Court, highlights the profound impact of child sexual abuse and the courage of victims in coming forward.

The court learned that Owen had raped his first victim multiple times when she was under 13 years old. Following a trial last month, he was found guilty on five counts of rape against this girl. Several years ago, he also targeted a second victim, causing or inciting her to engage in sexual activity while she too was under 13. Prosecutor Joshua Gorst presented the details during the sentencing hearing on 27 November 2024.

The first victim, a young woman whose identity is protected, delivered a powerful personal statement in court. She described how Owen had 'stolen my childhood' and left her in darkness, shame, and burden. However, she expressed relief at the sentencing, stating, 'Today I leave all the darkness, shame and burden with you. I will carry on - free from the shadows of your cruelty.' The second victim's statement, read by the prosecutor, revealed her feelings of disgust and dirtiness, which affected her school life and forced her to keep a 'horrible secret' for years. As an older teenager, she spoke out, noting that the experience made her 'a stronger version of herself' and allowed her to 'stop being your victim and leave the past behind.'

His Honour Judge Rhys Rowlands branded Owen as 'depraved' and emphasised that he had shown no remorse for his shameful and wrong behaviour. The offences occurred over a six-month period when Owen was younger, as noted by his defence counsel Gareth Bellis. In addition to the custodial sentence of four and a half years for each rape count and six months for the incitement count—all to run concurrently—Owen must sign the Sex Offenders Register indefinitely. He is also subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order and a ten-year restraining order prohibiting contact with his victims.

This case was reported by Wales Online and the Daily Post, with images provided by North Wales Police. It underscores the ongoing efforts to combat child sexual exploitation in Wales.