NEIL FODEN, a former headteacher convicted of sexually abusing four schoolgirls over a four-year period, may be released earlier than initially suggested during sentencing. The Crown Prosecution Service has confirmed that Judge Rhys Rowlands’ assertion that Foden would serve at least 11 years of his 17-year sentence was “incorrect.”
In a letter to Plaid Cymru MP Liz Saville Roberts, CPS deputy chief crown prosecutor Huw Rogers clarified that Foden, 66, of Old Colwyn, Conwy, could be eligible for release after serving half his sentence, not two-thirds as originally stated. This revelation has sparked widespread outrage, prompting Roberts to call on the UK government to review the case.
Foden was jailed in July at Mold Crown Court after being convicted of 19 offences, including 12 counts of sexual activity with a child and two counts committed while in a position of trust. Judge Rowlands described him at the time as “depraved,” “arrogant,” and a “bully.”
The CPS letter outlined the legal framework for sentencing, explaining that only offenders convicted of crimes carrying a maximum life sentence are required to serve two-thirds of their sentence before becoming eligible for release. For crimes with lower maximum sentences, eligibility for release occurs after half the sentence is served, subject to conditions.
In the House of Commons, Liz Saville Roberts voiced the concerns of Foden’s victims, saying: “Four schoolgirls suffered horrific abuse at the hands of Neil Foden. The CPS now informs me he will serve just half his sentence, not the two-thirds originally indicated.”
She urged Justice Minister Alex Davies-Jones to address the sentencing discrepancy and ensure that victims are safeguarded. Responding, Davies-Jones acknowledged the severity of the case, describing it as “appalling,” and pledged to examine the matter further.
New allegations emerge
Last month, North Wales Police confirmed it was investigating two additional allegations of grooming and sexual abuse linked to Foden. However, the CPS has stated that it has not yet been contacted regarding these new cases.
Foden began his teaching career at Ysgol Friars in Bangor, Gwynedd, in 1989 and became headteacher in 1997. He later served as strategic head of Ysgol Dyffryn Nantlle in Penygroes. His convictions have cast a shadow over his career and highlighted systemic safeguarding failures.
Public outrage
The revelation about Foden’s potential early release has reignited public debate about sentencing guidelines for sexual offenders, particularly those in positions of trust. Victims’ advocates are calling for a reassessment of sentencing policies to ensure justice and prevent similar situations in the future.
This case continues to shine a spotlight on the challenges faced by victims and the legal system’s ability to balance punishment with public safety.
