DARREN THOMAS FROM NEWPORT BANNED FROM CINEMAS AFTER SEX ASSAULTS ON YOUNG GIRLS

In a recent court ruling, Darren Thomas, a 20-year-old resident of Hawthorn Avenue, Alway, Newport, has been subjected to a series of stringent restrictions following his conviction for serious sexual offenses involving minors. The proceedings took place at Cardiff Crown Court, where Thomas appeared for sentencing after being found guilty of two counts of sexual assault committed in 2008.

The assaults occurred at the Cineworld cinema located within Spytty Retail Park in Newport. During these incidents, Thomas inappropriately touched two young girls over their clothing while they were watching a film. The court heard that these distressing events took place over a year prior to his conviction, highlighting a disturbing pattern of behavior.

In addition to the sexual assault charges, Thomas had previously pleaded guilty to 17 counts of creating indecent images of children. These images were discovered on a computer at his residence, and the offences related to material produced between January 2007 and April 2008. The evidence presented in court painted a troubling picture of Thomas’s activities during that period.

Judge William Gaskell addressed the court, noting that psychiatric evaluations indicated Thomas posed a significant risk of reoffending, particularly against young people. The judge emphasized that Thomas’s psychiatric profile contributed to concerns about his potential future conduct.

As part of the sentencing, Thomas was ordered to be detained at St Luke’s Hospital in Ebbw Vale. He will remain there until medical professionals treating him determine that he is mentally fit for release. Furthermore, the court imposed a comprehensive sexual offences prevention order (SOPO), which will be in effect for five years. This order restricts Thomas from using the internet for anything other than work, study, or employment searches, and prohibits him from holding internet accounts without informing the relevant public protection authorities.

Additionally, Thomas is barred from being in the company of children under 16 without adult supervision and from entering cinemas, theatres, or any venues where minors are likely to be present unless accompanied by an adult. These measures aim to prevent any future offenses and protect vulnerable individuals.

In accordance with legal requirements, Thomas is also mandated to register as a sex offender for a period of seven years. The court’s decision reflects the seriousness of his crimes and the ongoing concern for community safety, especially in the Newport area where these incidents occurred.