MICHAEL HUNT FROM USK CONVICTED FOR INDECENT PHOTOS AND ASSAULTS IN NEWPORT

In a case that has shocked the local community of Usk and the surrounding Newport area, Michael Hunt, a 47-year-old professional photographer residing on Conifer Crescent in Usk, was brought before Newport Crown Court to face serious charges related to the exploitation of two teenage girls. The incidents, which occurred during the summer months of the previous year, involved Hunt taking indecent photographs of the girls and engaging in inappropriate physical contact with them.

According to court records, Hunt had asked the two girls, aged 14 and 15 at the time, to pose for him in semi-naked positions. During these photo sessions, he also indecently touched the girls, actions that constitute serious criminal offenses. The court heard that Hunt then stored the images on his computer, which was later seized by police investigators as part of their evidence collection.

The girls reported the incidents to the police, prompting an investigation led by Detective Constable Gareth Lavington. During the investigation, authorities executed a search of Hunt’s computer equipment and discovered images classified as category one indecent photographs—indicating minor indecent content. These findings confirmed the allegations and provided concrete evidence of Hunt’s misconduct.

Prosecutor David Webster outlined that the indecent assaults took place while the girls were posing for photographs, emphasizing the inappropriate nature of Hunt’s actions. Initially, Hunt was set to face a trial, with the teenage girls prepared to give evidence in court. However, shortly before the trial proceedings, Hunt decided to change his plea.

He admitted to committing indecent assaults on each girl between January and August of the previous year. Additionally, Hunt pleaded guilty to two counts of making indecent photographs of the girls during the same period. The court adjourned the case to allow for the preparation of pre-sentence reports, which are standard procedure in such cases.

Judge David Morris, presiding over the case, ordered that Hunt be registered as a sex offender with the police, a measure that will have ongoing implications for his future. Although Hunt was released on bail, the judge issued a stern warning that he could still face imprisonment. The sentencing hearing has been scheduled for March 29, where Hunt’s fate will be formally decided.