KENNETH GODDARD MOVES NEAR PENARTH SCHOOL SPARKS OUTRAGE IN VALE OF GLAMORGAN

In a development that has stirred significant concern among residents and local authorities, convicted sex offender Kenneth Goddard has recently taken up residence in sheltered housing managed by the Vale of Glamorgan Council, situated in the town of Penarth. The location of his new home is particularly controversial because it is positioned just a short distance from St Cyres Comprehensive School, raising fears about safety and community well-being.

Goddard, aged 64, was convicted at Cardiff Crown Court in February of a serious sexual offense involving a teenage victim. He received a prison sentence of 16 months after being found guilty of indecently touching a minor. Court records also reveal that he has a prior conviction for indecent exposure, which underscores his history of sexual misconduct. Despite being registered as a sex offender and being disqualified for life from working with children, his placement in close proximity to a school has caused alarm among local residents.

Residents living at Redlands House, where Goddard now resides, have expressed their outrage and concern. Many are worried about the safety of children and the community at large. One neighbor, who preferred to remain anonymous, voiced their frustration: “The man obviously has to live somewhere, but why have the Vale Council moved him next to a school? I can see St Cyres pupils from my window, and so can he. My grandchildren used to come and visit me, and they’d often play outside. But I won’t have them here now. We weren’t told about this, and we don’t want him living here.”

It was only after someone recalled seeing his name in a newspaper that residents became aware of Goddard’s presence in the area. The community is now considering initiating a petition to request that he be relocated to a different area, away from the school and the children’s environment.

In response to the situation, Tony Jaques, the Head of Housing for the Vale of Glamorgan Council, stated that the council does not comment on individual cases publicly. He emphasized that the council has a duty to protect its residents and participates in a multi-agency partnership responsible for managing the re-housing and reintegration of potentially dangerous ex-offenders into the community. Jaques explained that all ex-offenders placed through this partnership undergo thorough assessments by statutory agencies, and the most suitable housing options are determined collectively. He added that the approach aims to minimize any potential risk to the public, highlighting that housing is a crucial element in the effective management of offenders. Without such controlled environments, offenders could move unpredictably from place to place, complicating efforts to monitor and manage their behavior.

When approached for comment, Brian Lightman, the head teacher of St Cyres Comprehensive School, indicated that he could not provide any information without further details about the case. The situation continues to evoke concern among residents, parents, and local officials, who are seeking reassurance that community safety remains a priority amidst these circumstances.