 It was said that Allen employed child care staff at the homes, but involved himself in the work especially at night, and created a "sexualised atmosphere alongside a culture of fear" at the homes, in particular at Bryn Alyn, Pentre Saeson and Bryn Terion.Allen denied all the charges, but was found guilty on 33 of the charges.On 1 December, Mr Justice Openshaw sentenced Allen to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 11 years.