Pembroke Dock man due in court over historic child sexual offences
A 61-year-old man is due to appear before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this afternoon (Tuesday, 27 May) charged with a series of historic sexual offences against boys under the age of 16.
Anthony Kenniford, of Britannia Drive, Pembroke Dock, faces ten counts alleged to have occurred between 2000 and 2008. The charges include indecent assault on boys under 14, inciting acts of gross indecency, rape and attempted rape. Several counts relate to repeated incidents involving different boys. The alleged offending is said to have taken place at addresses linked to the defendant in Pembroke Dock.
Given the seriousness of the allegations—including rape and attempted rape of a male under 16—the case is expected to be sent to the Crown Court for trial. All complainants are legally entitled to lifelong anonymity under the Sexual Offences (Amendment) Act 1992.
What this means in law
Historic sexual offence cases are prosecuted under the law as it applied at the time of the alleged conduct. Where matters are sent to the Crown Court, judges will manage the case, set a timetable and consider any applications before trial. The prosecution must prove the allegations beyond reasonable doubt; the defendant has the right to a fair trial.
