IAN WATKINS FROM CWMBRAN ESCAPES JAIL AFTER SHORTS BREACH AT TORFAEN SUPERMARKET

In a case that drew attention to the ongoing monitoring of individuals under sexual offences restrictions, Ian Watkins, a 57-year-old resident of Major Close, Ty Canol in Cwmbran, narrowly avoided imprisonment after violating the terms of his Sexual Offences Prevention Order. The incident occurred at a Morrison’s supermarket in Cwmbran, where Watkins was observed wearing shorts that were deemed too short according to the strict conditions of his legal restrictions.

Watkins has a lengthy criminal history, with nine convictions spanning 19 separate offences. His past includes a conviction for gross indecency involving a minor under the age of 16 in 2009, as well as an incident of exposure in July 2013. These convictions led to the imposition of a Sexual Offences Prevention Order in July 2013, which was intended to restrict his public behavior and prevent further offences.

On May 28, during a routine shopping trip, Watkins was purchasing beers at the Morrison’s in Cwmbran when he was approached by a Gwent Police officer. The officer recognized Watkins and was aware of his breach of the court-mandated clothing restrictions. As a result, Watkins was detained and taken into custody. The police officer’s recognition was based on prior knowledge of Watkins’ legal obligations and his known history of offences.

Prosecutor Rob Simkins explained to the court that the Sexual Offences Prevention Order explicitly prohibited Watkins from wearing any shorts or trousers that cut above the knee in public. The order, which was issued under the Sexual Offences Act 2003, was set for a duration of five years. The purpose of this restriction was to prevent any potential reoffending or inappropriate behavior in public settings.

During the court proceedings, Watkins claimed that he owned two sets of shorts: one set that was above the knee and another pair that complied with the order. He stated that the shorts he was wearing on the day in question had no lining and that he was not wearing any underwear beneath them. Watkins explained that he was simply running errands, including visiting the Post Office to collect his benefits, and then going to B&Q and Morrison’s to buy some beers. When questioned about why he did not wear trousers instead, Watkins admitted that he did not expect to be out for long that day.

His defense lawyer, Sophie Thoms, emphasized the importance of considering the seriousness of the breach. She argued that Watkins had not caused any harm and that he had shown remorse for his actions. Thoms also pointed out that Watkins had pleaded guilty immediately after being taken into custody, which demonstrated his acknowledgment of the mistake.

In sentencing, magistrate Vivienne Mabbott decided to impose a ten-week prison sentence, but this was suspended for a period of 12 months. Additionally, Watkins was ordered to pay court costs amounting to £345 within seven days. The court’s decision reflected a balance between enforcing the restrictions meant to protect the public and recognizing Watkins’ cooperation and remorse in the case.