A POWYS man who sexually assaulted a child has been jailed for more than a year.

Peter Mills’ victim described how he had “stolen a part of my childhood” in a victim impact statement read out at his sentencing at Caernarfon Crown Court on Thursday, November 21.

Mills, from Carno, admitted two counts of engaging in sexual activity with a child when he appeared at Welshpool Magistrates’ Court last month.

The offences came to light after the victim said she’d been sexually assaulted by Mills.

The 56-year-old was arrested after the victim reported one incident, before it came to light that another assault had taken place months before.

OTHER NEWS:

“When asked, he said he’d done the worst thing he could possibly do and had touched (the victim),” said prosecutor Richard Edwards.

“The defendant placed his hand on her thigh and moved it up. This went on for five minutes.

“The girl said this made her feel sick to the stomach and she wanted him to stop. She was worried if she told him he’d get angry."

Mills was arrested in the early hours of October 29, having been reported missing.

“He had injuries on his wrists, he said he’d attempted to take his own life,” said Mr Edwards.

He read out a statement from the victim, which said: “I’m only a child, I shouldn’t know anything about things like this, let alone be a part of it.

“He has stolen a part of my childhood and innocence and it can’t be taken back or forgotten.

“When I close my eyes I can still feel and see him touching me, like a bug crawling on my skin. It’s something I won’t ever be able to forget.”

Dafydd Roberts, representing Mills, of Llechwedd Du, Carno, said this was a case that clearly passes the custody threshold, but is one that could be suspended. He said his family had not stood by him.
County Times:

He added: “Of real importance is that when first confronted, he admitted (what he’d done) straight away.

“From his attitude towards how he’s behaved, there is a realistic prospect of rehabilitation."

Judge Timothy Petts commended the victim for coming forward and described the statement as “moving”, adding that at least one of the offences involved advance planning.

“Only an immediate prison sentence is appropriate,” he said

He jailed Mills for 14 months for the most serious offence, adding 10 months for the other assault, to run concurrently, meaning the total sentence is 14 months.

Mills must sign the sex offender’s register and will also be made subject of a sexual harm prevention order for 10 years.

A restraining order protecting his victim will last indefinitely.