News

Man accused of 22 counts of child sexual abuse says that he is innocent

Published

1 year ago

August 3, 2023

DOMINIC DEWICK, from Haverfordwest, faces counts of sexually abusing two children. The trial began at Swansea Crown Court on Monday this week.

The first witness sworn in after the prosecution opened their case said that she endured eight years of sexual abuse as a child, and told the court how her innocence prevented her from realising his actions were wrong.

“I was seven years old when he began fondling me,” she told the jury.

“And it went on for eight years. It was only as I got older that I realised what he was doing wasn’t right and I tried to think of ways to make him stop.”

Dewick, 44, of Harrier Road, Haverfordwest, faces a total of 22 charges of sexual assault on a child, gross indecency to a child and assault by penetration on a child under 13. The charges are alleged to have been committed on the first witness between 1993 and 2002, and on Victim B between 2013 and 2017.

On Monday, she told the court that the offences against her began when she was seven years old.

The first incident involved Dewick removing her clothing before being assaulted.

“After that he would fondle my breasts and he did this for around eight years,” recalled Victim A.

Victim A said the assaults came to an end when she was 15.

“I was walking home from school one day and Dominic suggested we walked together,” she said.

“I was carrying a bag and a coat wrapped round my arm, and a folder in front of my chest. And then Dominic started taking the items away from me so he could carry them himself and had access to my breasts.

On day two of the trial this week, the second alleged victim described how he began abusing her when she was just nine years old.

“He started giving me sweets and chocolates as part of the grooming process, so that I would feel better with him, and like him,” she said.

“I was quite happy to receive the gifts but he also told me that my friends didn’t care about me. He also called me a b**ch once for making too much noise when I took some ice-cream out of the fridge. And that made me feel bad.”

Giving evidence to the court behind a screen she said the sexual assaults stemmed back to when the defendant began giving her massages, which then led to molestation.

The witness was asked by defence counsel James Hartson, KC, whether any of the alleged incidents stand out in her memory.

“Nothing stands out, per se,” she replied. “It’s just years and years’ worth that have made me terribly ill, depressed suicidal and extremely bad mentally.”

During the third day of his trial, Dewick vehemently denied all accusations and expressed feeling “dismayed and sick” when confronted by the police.

“I’d never do anything like that,” Dewick asserted with apparent shock as he addressed the court. “I was quite dismayed to hear this, and it was sick.”

The prosecution presented allegations that Dewick sexually assaulted Victim A repeatedly between 1993 and 2002 when she was only five to fifteen years old. Additionally, Victim 2 accused Dewick of multiple sexual assaults between 2013 and 2017.

The defence counsel, Nicola Powell KC, raised questions about the validity of the allegations, particularly regarding Victim A’s age when the alleged abuse began. Powell questioned whether a five-year-old child could fully comprehend and make such grave accusations.

Dewick maintained his innocence and described Victim A as ‘buggy,’ claiming she first accused him of rape when he was 13 and she was merely five years old. According to Dewick, she made a similar accusation when he was 16 and she was eight years old. However, he adamantly refuted the veracity of these claims, stating, “Not one accusation that was made by her was true.”

During the cross-examination, Powell confronted Dewick about his conduct during the initial police interview in 2022. The officers claimed he displayed a lack of respect, using terms like ‘sweetheart,’ and even chuckled when asked serious questions. Dewick explained that his chuckling was merely a “nervous laugh” due to the absurdity of the allegations levelled against him.

But the trial took an unexpected turn when the Crown brought up an incident from 2021 involving a third child who accused Dewick of inappropriate behaviour. The child claimed Dewick asked her for a “little strokey-strokey” massage. Nonetheless, no further legal action was taken regarding this accusation.

The Crown questioned the timing of the third child’s allegation, which coincided with the ages of the other victims when they were assaulted. Dewick, however, dismissed any sexual intent behind his actions, attributing the request for a back massage to his long-standing back pain.

The defence probed Dewick further regarding his medical evidence for the back pain, to which he replied that he had never visited a doctor for the issue.

THURSDAY AT COURT

Swansea Crown Court witnessed an intense third day of trial as Dominic Dewick expressed feeling “dismayed and sick” when confronted by the police with the allegations.

During the trial, Dewick vehemently denied the accusations, exclaiming, “I’d never do anything like that.” He recounted his reaction to the charges, stating, “I was quite dismayed to hear this, and it was sick.”

In a startling revelation, Dewick described the first victim, who was aged five at the time, as having accused him of rape when he was just 13 years old. According to Dewick, the same accusation resurfaced when he turned 16 and she was then eight years old.

Challenged during cross-examination by defence counsel Nicola Powell KC, Dewick’s explanation for the accusations came under scrutiny. Powell questioned whether a five-year-old could fully comprehend the gravity of such allegations. Additionally, she brought attention to Dewick’s behaviour during his initial police interview in 2022, where he was reported to have chuckled and shown a lack of respect towards the officers involved.

Responding to the accusations of chuckling, Dewick asserted, “It was an anxious laugh, a nervous laugh because it was so ridiculous to hear this story about me. I thought, ‘This has got to be a joke.’ It was laughable.”

The Crown later revealed that in 2021, a third child, aged nine, claimed that Dewick had asked her to engage in inappropriate behavior. However, no further legal action was taken regarding this particular allegation.

During the trial, the Crown questioned the coincidence of multiple allegations surfacing when the children were around the same age when the alleged assaults took place. Dewick dismissed any suggestion of sexual intent, attributing his actions to severe back pain that he had purportedly endured for years.

In an exchange with Judge Paul Thomas, Dewick was asked to provide medical evidence supporting his claim of back pain. However, he admitted to never seeking medical attention for this condition.

The trial continues.

News

Labour’s refusal to compensate WASPI women sparks outrage

Published

34 mins ago

December 18, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THE UK LABOUR GOVERNMENT has ignited controversy by refusing to compensate the 3.8 million Women Against State Pension Inequality (WASPI) campaigners affected by changes to the state pension age. The decision has drawn fierce criticism from opposition figures and campaigners, who accuse Labour of breaking election promises made to these women.

The WASPI women are campaigning because they believe they were unfairly impacted by changes to the state pension age, which were poorly communicated and left many born in the 1950s financially unprepared. The sudden shift from receiving pensions at 60 to later ages caused significant hardship, as many were unable to adjust their retirement plans in time. They argue the changes disproportionately affect them due to limited financial opportunities earlier in life, and the lack of transitional arrangements or compensation exacerbates the harm caused. WASPI women seek fair redress for the financial and emotional distress they have endured.

Andrew RT Davies, Senedd Member for South Wales Central and former Welsh Conservatives leader, condemned the decision. Speaking to The Herald, he said: “This decision shows what a bunch of shameless opportunists Labour are. Many of the Labour great and good, including Eluned Morgan, said their party would compensate WASPI women when they were trying to get votes, and now haven’t kept up their end of the bargain.

“People across Wales will see this decision and conclude that they cannot trust Labour again.”

The controversial decision

The announcement follows a long-standing campaign by WASPI women, who argue that the government failed to notify them adequately about changes to the state pension age. These changes left many women facing financial hardship.

The Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO) previously recommended compensation ranging from £1,000 to £2,950 per affected individual. However, the Labour Government has rejected providing financial redress, citing financial constraints.

Key points from the decision include:

Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall described compensation as “unfair and poor value for taxpayers’ money.”
Chancellor Rachel Reeves defended the move, claiming most women were aware of the pension age changes and suggesting the reforms had “significant awareness.”
Ministers argued there was no evidence of “direct financial loss” and that compensation could cost up to £10.5 billion, which they deemed disproportionate.
The government plans to introduce an action plan addressing issues raised in the Ombudsman’s report, aiming for clearer communication in future pension reforms.

Backlash from campaigners

The WASPI campaign group condemned the decision as “bizarre and totally unjustified.” A spokesperson said: “This is a devastating blow for the millions of women who have been waiting for justice. It raises serious questions about the government’s commitment to fairness and accountability.”

Liberal Democrat Welsh Affairs Spokesperson David Chadwick MP called the decision a “day of shame” for Labour.

“The new government has turned its back on millions of pension-age women who were wronged through no fault of their own. Ignoring the Ombudsman’s recommendations is disgraceful.

“For years, Liberal Democrats have pushed the government to fairly compensate WASPI women. Today’s heartless decision cannot be allowed to stand, and we will press ministers to give those affected the fair treatment they deserve.”

Political ramifications in Wales

In Wales, where Labour has traditionally held strong support, the decision has caused outrage among affected women.

“We trusted Labour to stand up for us,” said a WASPI campaigner in Cardiff. “They promised us compensation, and now they’re turning their backs. How can we ever trust them again?”

Andrew RT Davies warned of potential long-term political consequences. “Labour’s actions send a clear message to voters: when push comes to shove, they cannot be trusted to deliver on their promises,” he said.

Financial and social impact

The refusal to compensate exacerbates the financial struggles faced by many WASPI women. Campaigners argue the decision undermines their financial stability and fails to acknowledge the harm caused by the sudden changes.

“This isn’t just about money,” said another campaigner. “It’s about fairness. Many of us lost years of financial stability and retirement dreams. That’s not something you can sweep under the rug.”

Next steps for campaigners

The WASPI group vowed to continue fighting for justice, with plans for legal challenges and further demonstrations to keep the issue in the public eye.

As Labour faces backlash, particularly from older voters, the decision could have significant repercussions in the next general election, especially in battleground areas like Wales. The plight of WASPI women remains a stark reminder of the challenges facing today’s pension system.

Community

Pembrokeshire beaches among the best for winter walks

Published

18 hours ago

December 17, 2024

Tom Sinclair

NEW research has revealed that two of the top five beaches to visit in Wales this winter are right here in Pembrokeshire.

The outdoor experts at GO Outdoors rated and ranked Wales’ best winter beach walks based on average rainfall, temperature, daylight hours, popularity, and visitor reviews. The results highlight Whitesands Bay and Marloes Sands as standout destinations for a festive season stroll.

WHITESANDS BAY Ranked second overall, Whitesands Bay near St David’s scored an impressive 8.50 out of 10. The beach is celebrated for its fine white sands and stunning views of the Welsh peninsula. During the winter months, the beach becomes a haven for dog walkers as restrictions are lifted, and visitors can take advantage of facilities including toilets and an on-site cafe.

MARLOES SANDS Coming in third place, Marloes Sands earned a score of 7.50 out of 10. Known for its breathtaking beauty and dramatic views of Skokholm and Gateholm Island, the beach offers a quieter alternative during the winter months. Visitors can explore the Marloes Peninsula Beach Walk, a 4-mile circular route that highlights the best of the area’s natural scenery. The surrounding area also boasts cosy accommodation options, such as Gupton Farm Surf Lodge.

Calum Jones, outdoor expert at GO Outdoors, said: “Although the cold weather may cause people to stay inside, there is no better time to explore the UK than the winter months. As crowds disperse, visitors to beaches often find themselves with miles of coastline to themselves. Some beaches remove car parking charges, and local eateries offer discounts during the off-season months.

“I would recommend wrapping up in the colder months, wearing base layers, and investing in a good waterproof jacket to ensure you can enjoy these beaches no matter the weather.”

THE TOP FIVE BEACHES

Rhossili Bay, Glamorgan – 9.26/10
Whitesands Bay, Pembrokeshire – 8.50/10
Marloes Sands, Pembrokeshire – 7.50/10
Three Cliffs Bay, Glamorgan – 7.31/10
Dunraven Bay, Glamorgan – 6.93/10

With Pembrokeshire featuring twice in the rankings, it’s clear that the county’s stunning coastline continues to draw visitors year-round. For those looking to enjoy a Boxing Day beach walk or a peaceful winter escape, Whitesands and Marloes Sands are two perfect options.

Crime

Soldier caught drink-driving nearly three times over the limit

Published

18 hours ago

December 17, 2024

Sarah-Jane Absalom

A SERVING soldier has admitted driving when he was almost three times over the legal drink-drive limit.

Alfred Kempton, 26, was observed by officers ‘swerving all over the road’ as he drove a white Renault Kangoo at Pelcomb Bridge, Haverfordwest, just after 10:30pm on November 30.

When officers stopped the vehicle, they discovered Kempton’s eyes were glazed and there was a strong smell of alcohol. A roadside breath test proved positive, and subsequent tests at the police station revealed he had 102 mcg of alcohol in 100 ml of breath. The legal limit is 35.

Crown Prosecutor Nia James described the reading as “very high.”

Kempton’s solicitor, David Williams, urged magistrates to refrain from imposing a community order, warning that it would result in Kempton’s dismissal from the army.

“He is one of only four people in his entire squadron with expertise in electronic warfare and signal intelligence,” said Mr Williams, adding that Kempton’s position was supported by two senior army officers who attended court.

Magistrates fined Kempton £1,141, ordered him to pay a £456 court surcharge and £85 costs, and disqualified him from driving for 24 months.

“This is a very high reading, and if it happens again, you will not be so lucky,” said the presiding magistrate. “You are now classified as a high-risk offender.”