CLUB LEADER JAILED FOR CHILD ABUSE AND SEXUAL ASSAULT
The leader of a children's club in South Wales, Mathew Lock, aged 44 and from Barry, committed multiple criminal offences involving young boys.It was reported that he gave the boys alcohol, including cider and vodka, during camping trips, which culminated in the sexual assault of a teenage victim.
Lock abused his authority within the club to gain access to children and communicated inappropriately through texts to groom the victims.
The assault took place while on a camping trip, where the victim drank so heavily that he urinated inside a tent, was made to sleep in Lock's compartment, and was subsequently raped and sexually assaulted.
The court proceedings revealed that Lock had previous convictions for theft, though no prior convictions related to sexual offenses.
At Cardiff Crown Court, Lock was sentenced to ten years in prison, with two-thirds to be served behind bars.
He was also subjected to a sexual harm prevention order and placed on an indefinite notification requirement.
In a personal statement, the victim described the emotional and mental toll caused by Lock’s abuse, including feelings of anxiety, resentment, and regret for not speaking out earlier.
Lock’s defense acknowledged his lack of maturity and noted his involvement in community activities, but also recognized his grooming behavior.
The judge praised the victim’s dignity throughout the trial and underscored the seriousness of Lock’s deeds.
