LISA BRYN JONES AND KIMBERLEY ROSS FROM COLWYN BAY AND RHOSE-ON-SEA FACE COURT AFTER SHAMEFUL SOCIAL MEDIA POSTING

In a case that has shocked the local communities of Colwyn Bay and Rhos-on-Sea, two women have narrowly avoided imprisonment after admitting to the serious offence of posting a sexual image of another individual on a social media platform. The incident, which took place in North Wales, was heard at Caernarfon Crown Court, where the gravity of their actions was underscored by the presiding judge.

Kimberley Ross, aged 35, residing at Ffordd Dawel in Colwyn Bay, and Lisa Bryn Jones, aged 40, of Bryn Eglwys in Rhos-on-Sea, appeared before the court. Although the two women knew each other, they were not considered friends. The court was informed that during a period of separation in 2017, Ross’s then-husband, David, had exchanged flirtatious and sexually explicit messages with the victim, who was not present in court. Prosecutor Anna Price detailed that the messages included a photograph of the victim’s naked breasts, which she had sent to Mr. Ross.

In August of the previous year, the victim contacted Ross and requested that her husband not mention the photographs. Despite this, Mr. Ross could not recall the images, prompting the victim to resend them. Ross then became aware of the photographs. During a subsequent argument, Ross threatened to upload the images to Facebook, which she did. The victim was alerted to the posting, and Facebook removed the image; however, Ross reposted it, further humiliating the victim. Jones later contacted Ross and asked for permission to upload the image herself, which she did, accompanied by an abusive message directed at the victim. The victim later told police that she felt deeply embarrassed and distressed by the online posting.

Ross was arrested but chose not to answer police questions, while Jones was detained in November and admitted to the authorities her involvement. Both women’s legal representatives requested that the court consider the recommendations outlined in pre-sentence reports and avoid immediate custody, emphasizing their remorse and the circumstances.

Judge Huw Rees addressed the court, expressing his disappointment and disappointment in their actions. He stated, “Whatever the background to this distasteful incident, both of you, by reason of your age, should be thoroughly ashamed of your behaviour. How people behave so immaturely when you have other responsibilities beggars belief.”

As a result, Kimberley Ross was sentenced to 20 weeks in prison, suspended for 18 months, and was ordered to complete 35 sessions of a Probation Service programme. Additionally, a Restraining Order was issued, prohibiting both women from contacting the victim in any manner, from visiting her residence, or making any statements about her on social media or online forums. The case highlights the serious consequences of online misconduct and the importance of responsible social media use, especially among adults who should serve as role models in their communities.