Courage of Child Victims of Sex Offences Commended by Police

THE courage of three victims has been commended by the police officers who investigated their case, following the sentencing of a ‘predatory’ child abuser.

54-year-old Peter Lewis (pictured) of Tirgof, Llangennech will serve a 27 year extended sentence for raping and sexually assaulting three girls, who were all under the age of 13 at the time of the offences.

Lewis was initially arrested in February 2018 after one of the girls, who is still a child, reported he had raped her. His electronic devices were seized and during their examination were found to contain a number of indecent images of children. Lewis was further arrested, and as the investigation continued two more victims came forward to report a number of historic and recent sexual offences.

At court in December 2018, Lewis pleaded not guilty to all charges, forcing his victims, two of which are still children, to give evidence in court.

He chose not to give his own evidence in court, opting instead to rely on written statements.

The strength it has taken the victims to report the crimes and stand up in court has been praised by police.

Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Inspector Gareth Roberts, Dyfed-Powys Police, said: “The three victims in this case have shown tremendous courage by supporting this investigation and giving evidence at court.

“Without them, this predatory sexual offender would not have been brought to justice.”

On Friday, 29 March 2019, Lewis was found guilty of 16 counts of sexual offences against children, including four of rape, seven of sexual assault, two of making indecent images and one of inciting a child to engage in sexual activity.

DCI Roberts continued: “Lewis did not accept responsibility and showed no remorse for his crimes. The investigating team has been tenacious in pursuing the truth and seeking justice for these brave girls.

“If anyone reading this has concerns surrounding contact they, or someone they know, has had with Lewis, I urge them to speak to us.

“We have specialist police officers who will be there to support anyone who reports sexual offences to us.”

Dyfed-Powys Police would encourage any victims of sexual offences to have the confidence to come forward and report the offence. All reports are dealt with seriously and sensitively. Reports can be made by calling 101.

Anyone with concerns about contact they, or someone they know, has had with Lewis, is encouraged to contact Dyfed-Powys Police, quoting crime reference: DPP/0037/09/02/2018/01/C.