MICHAEL BARNARD'S SHOCKING CRIMES IN MILFORD HAVEN AND TIDWORTH REVEALED

In a series of disturbing incidents spanning several years, Michael Barnard, a man with a troubling history of internet-based sexual offenses, has been subjected to multiple court proceedings in different locations, including Milford Haven and Tidworth. His criminal activities have shocked the local communities and prompted strict legal actions to prevent further harm.

Most recently, in February 2018, Barnard, aged 50 and residing on Charles Street in Milford Haven, was handed a significantly extended prison sentence after it was revealed that he had failed to learn from his previous convictions. Despite completing an internet sex offenders programme, Barnard continued to engage in illegal online activities involving minors. The court heard that he had contacted a 15-year-old girl over the internet and attempted to persuade her to engage in sexual acts with him. This was not an isolated incident; in 2013, Barnard had already been convicted of attempting to persuade a 13-year-old girl to expose herself to him via the internet.

Judge Keith Thomas presided over the case at Swansea Crown Court and expressed his disappointment in Barnard’s repeated offenses. Barnard was sentenced to six years in prison, but with the stipulation that he would be on licence and could be recalled to serve an additional six years if necessary. The court was informed that Barnard had admitted to inciting a minor to participate in sexual activity, a serious breach of trust and safety. The judge emphasized that Barnard had not learned from his previous punishment, stating, “But you learned nothing that might deter you. I have no doubt that you pose a significant risk of serious harm by the commission of similar offences.”

Furthermore, Barnard was ordered to serve a minimum of four years before being eligible for release, and he would remain under supervision until authorities were satisfied that he no longer posed a threat to minors. A sexual harm prevention order was also imposed, restricting his access to the internet and prohibiting any contact with the girl involved, either online or in person.

In a separate case from April 2013, Barnard, then aged 46 and living in Saxon Court, Tidworth, was involved in an explicit online conversation with a 14-year-old girl. The court heard that Barnard, a former soldier with a distinguished military career, attempted to persuade the girl to send him nude photographs. The girl had clearly informed Barnard of her age early in their conversation, but he continued to engage with her, claiming he was “over 19” and using a photograph of himself from his twenties. The conversation quickly took on a sexual tone, with Barnard making direct and explicit requests for nude images.

Fortunately, the girl did not send any photographs, as her mother discovered the conversation a few days later and alerted Barnard’s family. The court was told that Barnard’s behavior was not only criminal but also deeply disturbing, especially considering his background as an “exemplary soldier” with a “glittering career.” His defense argued that Barnard had been struggling with personal issues, including alcohol and painkiller dependency, and was a lonely man seeking help. However, the court, presided over by Recorder Maria Lamb, condemned his actions as “not only criminal but thoroughly disgusting for a man of your age.”

As a result, Barnard was sentenced to a community order with 36 months of supervision and required to participate in a sex offenders group work programme. He was also ordered to sign the sex offenders register and was made subject to a Sexual Offences Prevention Order for five years, aimed at monitoring and managing any potential risk he might pose to the public. These legal measures reflect the seriousness with which the courts view Barnard’s repeated offenses and the ongoing threat he represents to vulnerable minors in Milford Haven, Tidworth, and beyond.