A MAN from Llangollen sent “extremely distasteful” messages to a girl.

Jack Hatley, who was working as a chef at the time, began sending sexually explicit messages to the girl in February 2023, before her father discovered them three months later.

Hatley, 40, of Pengwern Mill Farm, was sentenced to 18 months’ imprisonment, suspended for two years, at Mold Crown Court today (November 14).

He had previously admitted sexual communication with a child, and inciting a child to engage in sexual activity.

READ MORE:

Ruthin man who attacked girlfriend in Flintshire back in court

'Excellent doctor' and 'loving mother' from Llangollen died by suicide

Prosecutor Jemma Gordon said that, on February 19, 2023, Hatley messaged the girl privately on social media, and the two initially exchanged “pleasantries”.

But within a “relatively short period of time”, Ms Gordon said, he began making comments such as complimenting her on her body, and calling her “hot” and a “naughty girl”.

Hatley also messaged the girl saying he would like her to send him a picture of her bottom.

At times, she did not reply to his messages, but Hatley would persist with sending more of them nonetheless.

After the girl’s father discovered the messages, police were contacted, and Hatley was arrested.

He made admissions to police about his behaviour but denied having a sexual attraction to children, said he was drunk at the time, and apologised for what he had done.

In a statement, the girl said she “spiralled” as a result of Hatley’s actions, and now feels “proud” that she is “slowly getting better”.

Defending Hatley, a man of previous good character, Gareth Bellis asked the court to take into account his client’s guilty pleas at the earliest opportunity.

Mr Bellis said Hatley is currently in employment, and would keep his job and accommodation subject to a non-immediate custodial sentence being imposed.

Positive character references had also been submitted to the court on Hatley’s behalf, meanwhile.

A suspended sentence, with “very onerous requirements attached”, was suggested by Mr Bellis.

Sentencing, Judge Rhys Rowlands agreed to suspend the sentence, deeming Hatley to have a realistic prospect of rehabilitation, but labelled his behaviour “frankly disgraceful”.

He told Hatley: “It is extremely distasteful, on any view, what you were suggesting. Your behaviour upon her, and the effect of it, is really profound.”

Hatley will complete 30 days’ rehabilitation activity, and abide by a 120-day period of electronically monitored alcohol abstinence.

In addition, he will pay a £1,500 fine, compensation to the victim of £500, and costs to the prosecution of £150.