CHRISTOPHER DAVIES CAGED IN PONTYPOOL AND CWMBRAN FOR GROOMING AND SEXUAL ASSAULT ON UNDERAGE GIRL

In a case that has shocked the local communities, Christopher Davies, a 24-year-old man originally from Cwmbran, was sentenced to prison after being found guilty of serious sexual offenses involving a minor. The incident took place in November 2014, but the repercussions and court proceedings extended into early 2015, culminating in a sentencing that has left many residents concerned about safety and justice.

According to court records, Davies engaged in a disturbing pattern of grooming and sexual assault against a vulnerable underage girl. The court heard that Davies initially contacted the girl through social media, sending her an indecent image of himself. Recognizing her vulnerability, he then attempted to manipulate her by offering monetary incentives, first proposing to give her £20, which he later doubled to £40. Despite her refusal of the cash, Davies arranged to meet her in Newport City Centre, where he continued his manipulative tactics.

Following their meeting, Davies took the girl to the Premier Inn hotel located in Pontypool. It was revealed during the court proceedings that he had pre-booked a room at the hotel, indicating a level of premeditation. The court was told that once inside the hotel room, Davies, who was reportedly in a drunken state at the time, sexually assaulted the girl. The details of the assault were distressing, and the court heard that the incident was part of a pattern of grooming and exploitation.

Davies, who resides at The Twinings in Cwmbran, later pleaded guilty to one count of sexual assault and another charge related to meeting a child following sexual grooming. His guilty plea came as a relief to the prosecution, but the court was also informed of his extensive criminal record, which includes 22 previous offenses, notably harassment.

During the sentencing hearing, Judge PK Lewis expressed his concerns about Davies' lack of genuine remorse. The judge pointed out that Davies had demonstrated considerable planning in his actions, including the pre-booking of the hotel room to facilitate the meeting. The judge emphasized the seriousness of the offenses and the need for appropriate punishment to protect the community.

Following his arrest, Davies was remanded in custody. His defense attorney, James Lewis, highlighted that Davies had been suffering from mental health issues and was prescribed medication to manage his condition. Throughout the hearing, Davies was visibly emotional, breaking down in tears as he was sentenced. Lewis also noted that Davies had pleaded guilty early and had previously worked as a carer for his family, suggesting some remorse and a desire to make amends.

The court sentenced Davies to a total of two years for the grooming offense and eight months for the sexual assault, with both sentences to run concurrently. Additionally, the judge ordered that Davies serve half of his custodial term before being eligible for release. As part of the court's measures to prevent further offenses, Davies was ordered to sign the sex offenders’ register for ten years and was issued a sexual offences’ prevention order. This order restricts his contact with children under the age of 16 for a decade, aiming to safeguard vulnerable minors from potential harm in the future.