JONATHAN LEONARD AND ANN BRAY SENTENCED IN MONMOUTHSHIRE FOR CHILD ABUSE CRIMES

A disturbing case involving a Welsh couple has culminated in their being sentenced to 23 years in prison each after evidence emerged of their involvement in the sexual abuse of a child, with the heinous acts documented and shared online.

Jonathan Leonard, aged 58 and originally from Caldicot in Monmouthshire, along with Ann Bray, aged 62 from Newport, were apprehended by officers from the National Crime Agency (NCA) in September 2024. Their arrest followed a tip-off received from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), which prompted a thorough investigation into their activities.

During the arrest, authorities seized electronic devices belonging to both Leonard and Bray. A forensic examination of Bray’s device revealed a disturbing collection of videos and images depicting the pair engaging in sexual acts with a child, with material dating from 2021 through 2024. The investigation uncovered that Bray had been actively grooming the young victim, manipulating and preparing them to participate in sexual activities with the couple.

Further analysis showed that Bray had recorded these abusive acts, sharing the footage and images with Leonard. Communications between the two were uncovered, including chat messages where they discussed their sexual fantasies, the abuse, and explicit plans to carry out their criminal acts. Shockingly, Leonard later disseminated some of these images online, spreading the abuse beyond their immediate circle.

In addition to the explicit content related to the child abuse, authorities found both Leonard and Bray in possession of numerous other indecent images of children, as well as material classified as extreme pornography. Despite being questioned by NCA officers, both individuals refused to cooperate or provide any explanations regarding their involvement in the crimes.

Following their arrest and subsequent investigation, Leonard and Bray faced multiple charges related to child abuse and exploitation. They appeared before Cardiff Crown Court on 24 January, where they pleaded guilty to the charges brought against them.

On 19 May, the court handed down a severe sentence, sentencing both Leonard and Bray to 23 years in prison. An additional eight years of their sentences will be served on licence, reflecting the gravity of their crimes and the need for ongoing supervision after their release. The case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement agencies in Wales and beyond to combat child exploitation and bring offenders to justice.