DAVID FARR FROM BARGOED JAILED FOR SEXUAL GROOMING AND ASSAULT ON SCHOOLGIRL IN MERTHYR TYDFIL

In October 2010, a disturbing case unfolded involving David Farr, a 43-year-old taxi driver from Bargoed, who was sentenced to prison for engaging in a sexual grooming scheme and assaulting a 14-year-old girl. The incident highlighted the dangers of online predation and the devastating consequences of such misconduct.

Farr’s crimes came to light after the young girl, whose identity remains protected, was subjected to a series of inappropriate messages exchanged over the internet and mobile phone. The girl, who was only 14 at the time, had begun communicating with Farr through social media platforms, including Facebook. During their exchanges, Farr referred to her with demeaning nicknames such as “slut daughter,” while she responded by calling him her “Dirty Daddy Pig,” reflecting a disturbing dynamic of manipulation and exploitation.

The situation escalated when Farr and the girl met in person. The meeting took place on September 8 of the previous year, when Farr picked her up from a residence in Pontlottyn. He then drove her to a secluded area on Fochriw mountain, a remote spot known for its isolation. There, the two shared a kiss, and Farr proceeded to touch her intimately beneath her clothing. Witnesses reported that the kissing was prolonged and sloppy, indicating a lack of genuine affection and a clear intent to exploit.

The encounter was interrupted when a local farmer happened upon them, causing Farr to move the vehicle further up the road. Despite the interruption, the sexual activity had already occurred, and the girl’s distress was compounded when her mother discovered the incriminating messages on her mobile phone. Confronting Farr in the presence of his wife, the mother was met with admission and remorse from Farr, who acknowledged his actions and apologized.

Prosecutor Jennet Treharne outlined the case at Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court, emphasizing that Farr, then 42 and residing on Usk Road in Bargoed, had initially met the girl at a social event. Their communication intensified over time, with Farr expressing romantic and sexual interest that crossed boundaries of appropriate conduct. The explicit messages exchanged were too graphic to be read aloud in court but clearly demonstrated the grooming process.

Farr’s defense attorney, Jeff Jones, highlighted that his client had no prior convictions and was experiencing personal hardships, including the loss of his employment, divorce, and the transfer of his house to his ex-wife. He also noted that Farr was now only allowed supervised contact with his biological son, who was also 14. Jones described Farr as a man whose life had “crumbled” under the weight of his circumstances.

Judge Rhys Rowlands sentenced Farr to 14 months in prison, condemning his actions as vile and disgusting. In his remarks, the judge emphasized the importance of protecting young people from exploitation, regardless of their level of maturity or knowledge. He stated, “The severity is viewing a child in that way,” underscoring the law’s role in shielding minors from predators like Farr. The case served as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by online grooming and the devastating impact it can have on victims and their families.