A MAN who made threats of rape against terrified young girls on a bus has been spared jail.

Karl Hensel, of Llys Y Nant in Ruabon, appeared at Wrexham Magistrates Court for sentence on Wednesday afternoon.

The 38-year-old had admitted one offence of using threatening or insulting words or behaviour at a previous hearing.

Prosecutor Hannah Williams told the court that the offence happened in December 2023, when Hensel got onto a bus in the Wrexham area.

He said to two female youths who were also on the bus: "Fit as f*** youse," and then told them: "Christmas has come early."

They were extremely uncomfortable at his behaviour, which continued with him commenting to them: "Are you scared now are you?"

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He said to another person: "Those two girls down there are going to get raped when they get home," and then shouted at the victims: "Watch what happens when you get off the bus - you're going to get raped."

After that, a younger female got on the bus, at which the defendant shouted: "That's the kind of girl I'd rape," and sat behind her.

Ms Williams said the defendant's actions had constituted the targeting of vulnerable young girls and that his words had caused fear of rape and serious violence.

Euros Jones, defending, told the court: "In his own words, his actions were disgusting.

"There's very little mitigation I can say for him - and he doesn't wish me to.

"He has stated how sorry he is for this and when discussing matters with the probation service, he expressed genuine remorse.

"We know the common denominator in his offending is alcohol; when he drinks, he can't stop."

Mr Jones said his client is on medication for bipolar disorder - which does not mix well with alcohol and results in him having no recollection of his actions.

Such was his shock at what he'd done on the bus, Mr Jones said, he has abstained from alcohol ever since.

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"He has committed no further offences since this time," Mr Jones added.

"And he will do whatever the court demands of him."

Hensel received an eight week custodial sentence, but it was suspended for 18 months with requirements including 30 days of rehabilitation activity and 120 days of alcohol abstinence monitoring.

The defendant must pay £85 costs, £100 compensation and a £114 victim surcharge.