CALLS for a statutory public inquiry have been made following former Bangor headteacher Neil Foden being jailed for 17 years for child sex abuse.
Foden, 66, of Gwynant, Old Colwyn, was sentenced at Mold Crown Court yesterday (July 1) after he had been convicted by a jury of the following offences on May 15:
- 12 counts of sexual activity with a child.
- Two counts of sexual activity with a child by a person in a position of trust.
- Causing/inciting a child to engage in sexual activity.
- Possessing indecent images of a child.
- Sexual assault of a child.
- Sexual communication with a child.
- Attempting to arrange the commission of a child sexual offence.
The North Wales Safeguarding Board (NWSB) said it would undertake a Child Practice Review, but numerous figures in Gwynedd have spoken out after Foden’s sentencing by saying that investigations should go further.
Cllr Beca Brown, Gwynedd Council’s cabinet member for education
“As cabinet member for education on Cyngor Gwynedd, and as a mother, I have followed the case of former headteacher Neil Foden with alarm, and have been disgusted with what he has done.
“I welcome today's sentencing and hope the result brings some peace to the victims and their families.
“What happened to the girls Neil Foden abused is nothing short of a tragedy.
“Their courage and firm determination in coming forward to recount their experiences is something I admire deeply.
“There is nothing more important than the safety of children and young people, and caring for them during their formative years is one of the greatest responsibilities there is.
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“The welfare of children and young people is at the top of my priorities, and those of the council.”
She added: “Other investigations may also be needed in addition to the current one – a public inquiry, for example.
“I'd welcome such an inquiry – indeed, I would wish to see one if necessary to reassure parents in Gwynedd that no stone will be left unturned.
“I wish to express unequivocally that I stand with the victims. I thank them for their extraordinary resilience, and I extend my deepest condolences to them, their families and friends.”
North Wales Police assistant chief constable, Gareth Evans
“North Wales Police welcome today’s sentence which reflects the appalling nature of Neil Foden’s crimes.
“We share the shock and revulsion of our communities towards his actions.
“I can’t overstate the impact that this has had on our communities, and particularly on young people in the area.
“I want to thank the victims that came forward in this case. Their courage and strength in going through the ordeal of the trial is to be admired by everyone.
“I have no doubt that their actions have saved future generations from being victims at the hands of Neil Foden.
“I encourage anyone who has suffered sexual violence in the past to come forward. We are here to listen. We are here to support you. We will do our best for you.”
North Wales Police’s senior investigating officer for the case, detective chief inspector Sophie Chance
“I would like to recognise the work of those in my investigation team and our CPS partners who have worked tirelessly to pursue this case and ensure he has been brought to justice.
“I extend my thanks to colleagues from the SARC (Sexual Assault Referral Centre) who were instrumental in supporting the victims, without who the offending of Neil Foden would not have come to light.”
Ceri Ellis-Jones, senior crown prosecutor for the CPS specialising in rape and serious sexual offences
“We welcome these convictions and the sentence passed today, and hope that this provides comfort to the victims, knowing that Foden has now been brought to justice.
“The victims are to be commended for their bravery in coming forward and giving evidence. Their support for this prosecution has been key to Foden being brought to justice.
“I would also like to thank the specialist team at North Wales Police with whom we closely collaborated from the outset.
“We were able to present a compelling case to the jury, resulting in these convictions.”
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