Rhyl grooming gang victim describes impact four years on
Woman says she still has anxiety at the thought of going into Rhyl town centre
A woman who was targeted by a child sexual exploitation gang in Rhyl has spoken about the lasting impact the abuse has had on her life, four years after it began.
Five people were sentenced to a combined total of 82 years in prison last week after being convicted of child sexual exploitation offences against three teenage girls between 2022 and 2024.
One of the victims, now 19, has chosen to share parts of her victim impact statement publicly, in a statement issued by North Wales Police.
'I feel more cautious and quieter'
In her statement, the woman said, "I had no idea, quite how much impact this offence was going to have on my life and will continue to do so.
"I used to be very outgoing and happy but now I feel I am more cautious and quieter when I meet new people.
"I remember not long after this incident I went into Rhyl and saw the defendants living a normal life with their families and in college, but I was too afraid to even go out of the house in the fear that I had been targeted by older men.
"I have panic attacks and anxiety at the thought of going into Rhyl town centre. I will rarely go on my own, even after four years, and will often invite a friend with me. If my friends suggest Rhyl, I will always suggest somewhere else.
"I am only 19 years old and have my whole life ahead of me. This has been the most traumatic experience I have ever faced.
"Although I feel that I have dealt with it well, I know that it is something I will never forget and will have to learn to live with.
"My hope is that, in time, I can come to terms with what has happened and move forward, allowing me to live as normal life as possible in the future."
North Wales Police worked with several partner organisations throughout the investigation, including The Hydrant Programme and staff at Barnardo's.
Sarah Crawley, Director of Children's Services Cymru and UK Programmes at Barnardo's, said, "These convictions are a result of the incredible bravery shown by the young survivors in this case.
"By coming forward and giving evidence, they helped expose the abuse they suffered and made sure those responsible were brought to justice.
"Their courage has not only secured these prison sentences but has also helped protect other children from harm.
"At Barnardo's, we see the lifelong impact that sexual exploitation can have on children. These sentences acknowledge the serious and lasting damage caused.
"We owe it to these survivors, and all victims of abuse, to do more to prevent exploitation and make sure every child can access the specialist support they need."