BRYN CHARLES FROM ST BRIAVELS SENTENCED FOR CHILD ABUSE IN GLOUCESTERSHIRE

In December 2016, a distressing case unfolded at Gloucester Crown Court involving Bryn Charles, a 64-year-old man from Smithville Close, St Briavels, Gloucestershire. Charles was found guilty of serious sexual misconduct involving a young girl, which led to his sentencing to a prison term of three years and four months. The court heard that Charles had engaged in inappropriate conduct by persuading a young girl to touch him sexually, an act he later admitted to during the proceedings.

Charles had approached the girl with manipulative intent, convincing her that their actions should remain a secret between them. He told her not to tell anyone, framing it as “our little secret,” a phrase often used to conceal abusive behavior. Fortunately, the girl confided in a family member about what had transpired, prompting immediate police intervention and subsequent arrest of Charles.

During the trial, prosecutor Janine Wood detailed the nature of the offense. She revealed that Charles did not deny his actions and admitted to the offense right away. However, he expressed confusion and remorse, claiming he did not understand why he had committed such acts. Charles also stated that he had no interest in child pornography but had viewed adult material, attempting to distance himself from more severe allegations.

As the case progressed, Charles was visibly emotional, breaking down in tears while in the dock. The court also heard a statement from the girl’s mother, who expressed her shock and distress over the incident. She conveyed her concern about the potential long-term impact on her daughter, emphasizing how difficult it had been for her to process what had happened and her fears about future psychological effects.

Prosecutor Janine Wood also highlighted that Charles had a history of criminal behavior, with convictions dating back to the 1970s. Notably, in October 2015, he was cautioned by police for indecently exposing himself to an adult, indicating a pattern of concerning behavior.

Judge Michael Cullum reviewed medical reports indicating that Charles was currently receiving mental health treatment. The judge acknowledged that Charles was struggling with the consequences of his actions and the breakdown of his life. Defense lawyer Dermot Clarke argued that Charles was attempting to understand the underlying issues that led to his offending and expressed remorse, stating that his client was remorseful and recognized the gravity of his actions.

Despite this, Judge Cullum emphasized the severity of the offense, stating that Charles had crossed a clear moral boundary. He pointed out that Charles had previously been cautioned for similar behavior, which should have served as a warning. The judge expressed concern about the lasting impact on the young girl, noting that while she might not remember everything, her mother and others involved would carry the emotional scars. The court also ordered Charles to register as a sex offender for life and barred him from working with children in any capacity, whether paid or voluntary.

As Charles was led away to the cells, he attempted to speak, asking if he would be given a chance to address the court. Later, defense counsel Mr. Clarke brought to the court’s attention that Charles had been charged under an incorrect section of the Sexual Offences Act, which would have resulted in a lesser sentence. However, Judge Cullum dismissed this argument, stating that the mistake was made by the Crown Prosecution Service and that he would not alter the sentence he had already imposed, reaffirming the seriousness of the crime and the need for justice.