BROUGHT TO JUSTICE AFTER FLEEING ABROAD
Man caught on the run in Spain faces ‘very lengthy’ sentence for horrific sex crimes against children:
AMAN who tried to evade justice by fleeing abroad has been found guilty of raping and abusing children.
David Hayes, a former press officer at Bangor City Football Club, had denied 12 charges including child rape, sexually assaulting children aged 10 or under, and inciting them to engage in sexual acts.
Hayes, of Bridge Street in Llanrwst, carried out the abuse over a three-year period.
A jury of four men and eight women at Mold Crown Court took less than three hours to find him guilty of all charges.
One count had earlier been formally taken away from the jury when it emerged it had been duplicated on the indictment.
As the foreman gave guilty verdicts to each charge, there were sobs from the public gallery and one person mouthed the words “thank you” to the jury as they were led out.
Hayes stood with his hands on his head and shook his head as the 12 guilty verdicts were given to the court.
As Judge Rhys Rowlands told the jury that Hayes’ absconding to Spain had delayed the trial, he sat with his head in his hands.
The judge said: “He was trying to avoid responsibility for these frankly revolting acts.
“It’s ridiculous he can delay proceedings and I can only give him 12 months for it.
“You have been convicted on compelling evidence – guilty of the most serious offences against very young and very vulnerable children.
“In due course, you will be held to account but you can prepare yourself for a very lengthy custodial sentence.”
Judge Rowlands adjourned sentencing until Tuesday, March 26, in order for probation reports and up to date victim impact statements to be compiled.