ANDREW HIGGS FROM PENGAM FACES JAIL OVER 1990S SEX OFFENCES NEAR BLACKWOOD

In a significant development at Cardiff Crown Court, Andrew Higgs, a 43-year-old resident of Meadow Close in Pengam, has admitted to serious sexual offences committed against a young girl during the 1990s. The case has garnered considerable attention due to the long elapsed period since the offences occurred and the gravity of the charges involved.

Higgs appeared before Judge Jeremy Jenkins to enter his plea, which was made in the presence of legal representatives. He pleaded guilty to two counts: unlawful sexual intercourse with a child and indecency with a child. These charges relate to acts committed against a minor during a period spanning the early to late 1990s, although the specific details of the offences have not been disclosed publicly.

The court proceedings revealed that Higgs’ case has been adjourned to allow for the preparation of a comprehensive report, which will likely include assessments of his background and potential risk factors. This report will inform the judge’s final decision regarding sentencing. Higgs was represented by lawyer Andrew Taylor, while the prosecution was led by Laurence Jones.

Higgs is scheduled to be sentenced on May 13. During the hearing, Judge Jenkins issued a stern warning, indicating that Higgs is likely to face an immediate prison sentence upon sentencing due to the serious nature of the offences and the guilty plea. Until then, Higgs has been granted conditional bail, allowing him to remain free under specific conditions until the sentencing date.

The case underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement and judicial authorities to address historic sexual offences and ensure justice for victims, regardless of the time elapsed since the crimes occurred. The community in Pengam and the surrounding areas remains attentive to the developments in this case, which highlights the importance of safeguarding minors and holding offenders accountable.