CARL LUNDBECH'S NIGHTMARE IN ACTON AND CARDIFF: SEX OFFENDER'S REIGN OF TERROR ENDS IN MENTAL HOSPITAL

In a disturbing series of events spanning several years, Carl Lundbech, a 67-year-old known sex offender from Cardiff, has once again found himself at the center of criminal proceedings and public concern. His latest arrest occurred shortly after his release from Wandsworth Jail in South London, where he had been serving an 18-month sentence for repeatedly breaching a court order designed to keep him away from children.

Despite the legal restrictions, Lundbech was seen approaching two young boys just hours after leaving prison, raising alarm among authorities and witnesses alike. The court subsequently ordered that he be detained under sections 37 and 41 of the Mental Health Act, a measure that ensures only the Home Secretary has the authority to approve his release. This decision was made at Isleworth Crown Court in West London, following evidence presented that highlighted the ongoing risks posed by Lundbech.

Further complicating his case was the fact that prior to his latest incarceration, Lundbech had been subject to a ban by Cardiff's Justices of the Peace (JPs) prohibiting him from approaching children. This order was still in effect when he was released from Wandsworth Jail, where he had been sentenced to 18 months for multiple violations of the ban. Due to the time he had already spent in remand, Lundbech was eligible for release after just two weeks, a fact that drew criticism and concern from legal and social services.

During a court hearing, it was revealed that Lundbech's attempts to target children did not cease upon his release. On a visit to a dentist, he was caught trying to approach two four-year-old girls in the waiting room. Judge Sam Katkhuda emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “It was only thanks to the old ban on Lundbech approaching children that he was stopped. If the police officers had not been there, who knows what would have happened?”

In a separate incident dating back to October 2000, Lundbech, then 65, was sentenced to an additional 18 months in prison after being found guilty of eight counts of breaching a sex offender order. This order explicitly prohibited him from contacting children or approaching schools. The court heard that he had approached two primary schools in Cardiff and later gained access to a child's birthday party at a McDonald's restaurant in London. The judge, Henry Blacksall, described Lundbech as a “high risk” offender, noting his inability to control his impulses.

During the proceedings, Lundbech attempted to justify his actions by claiming he was seeking his brother in the Ely district of Cardiff after his release from prison. He admitted to being spotted near Herbert Thompson Junior School in Ely and Windsor Clive Junior School, despite the restrictions. He also acknowledged speaking to a mother at a McDonald's in Acton High Street but insisted he never spoke directly to the children, merely asking their ages. He denied further allegations of visiting the restaurant again and speaking to children at a party there, claiming he was never present at that event.

In his defense, Lundbech described his difficult circumstances, including sleeping rough in Acton after failing to reconnect with old friends or find accommodation. He expressed remorse for his actions, stating, “I kept my distance at all times,” and denied telling police he was glad to be arrested. The court's decision reflects ongoing concerns about his potential threat to the community, especially given his history of breaching court orders and his persistent attempts to approach minors in both Cardiff and Acton, London.