CRUMLIN NHS WORKER LEIGH COOMBS CAUGHT IN CHILD SEXUAL CHAT SCANDAL NEAR NEWBRIDGE

In April 2021, a disturbing case emerged involving Leigh Coombs, a man employed within the NHS and residing in Crumlin, who was caught in a covert online operation aimed at exposing inappropriate conduct towards minors. The incident unfolded when Coombs, a married individual aged 58, engaged in a series of conversations with an individual he believed to be a 13-year-old girl named Izzy, through the popular messaging platform WhatsApp.

During these exchanges, Coombs made explicit requests for sexual photographs, asking Izzy to send him such images. The court proceedings revealed that there was no actual victim involved in this case, as the person Coombs was communicating with was an undercover agent operating a fake profile designed to lure potential offenders. This setup was part of a broader effort to combat online child exploitation.

Leigh Coombs, who hails from Glen View in Crumlin, near Newbridge, admitted to attempting to engage in sexual communication with a minor. The court was informed that he had already served six weeks in prison following his remand after being charged and brought before magistrates. The offences in question took place over a brief period, specifically between November 30 and December 4, 2020.

Prosecutor Andrew Davies outlined the details of the case, stating, “The defendant messaged ‘Izzy’ and told her, ‘Bet you are hot and sexy. Hope you will text me. Or am I too old?’” This language underscored the inappropriate nature of the communication and the serious concerns surrounding the case.

Following his arrest, Coombs cooperated minimally, providing a no comment interview to detectives. The case was brought before Cardiff Crown Court, where Judge Michael Fitton QC sentenced him to six months in prison, though this sentence was suspended for 18 months. Additionally, Coombs was ordered to undertake a 40-day rehabilitation activity requirement and was registered as a sex offender until 2028. To further restrict his conduct, he was issued a sexual harm prevention order that will remain in effect for seven years. As part of the court’s ruling, he was also required to pay a victim surcharge of £128, emphasizing the seriousness of the offence and the need for ongoing monitoring and support to prevent future incidents.