NIGEL WALTON FROM ABERBARGOED FACES COURT OVER FRAUD AND PAST SEX OFFENCES

In a case that has drawn significant attention at Cardiff Crown Court, Nigel Walton, a 56-year-old resident of Bedwellty Road in Aberbargoed, was brought before the court on Friday, November 24, to face charges related to dishonesty and the concealment of prior convictions from his employer. Walton had previously pleaded guilty to charges of fraud, which played a central role in the proceedings.

The court was informed that Walton had a troubling criminal history, including convictions for possession of indecent images of children in both 2005 and 2016. These convictions had resulted in different penalties over the years. Twelve years prior, Walton was subjected to a community punishment in the form of a rehabilitation order at Bristol Crown Court. More recently, last year, he received a 16-month custodial sentence, which was suspended for 24 months at Winchester Crown Court.

Prosecutor Clare Wilks outlined the circumstances leading to Walton’s current appearance before the court. She explained that Walton had successfully secured employment with the Newydd Housing Association and commenced work on July 27. However, within just a week, on August 3, Walton requested a private meeting with his manager, Sally Thomas, who is the HR manager at the housing organization. The court heard that Walton asked for this meeting to be confidential and requested the presence of a witness.

During this meeting, on August 4, Walton disclosed to Ms. Thomas his previous criminal convictions. This revelation was made in a manner that breached the trust and confidentiality expected in such employment. Following this admission, Walton was immediately dismissed from his position, highlighting the serious consequences of his actions.

Judge Eleri Rees, presiding over the case, addressed Walton directly, emphasizing that although she chose not to activate the suspended sentence, his own actions had placed him in a precarious legal position. She remarked that Walton’s decision to disclose his past convictions constituted a further offence, which complicated his legal standing.

As part of her sentencing, Judge Rees ordered Walton to complete 40 hours of unpaid community service and imposed a three-year community order. This order is linked to participation in a sexual offenders treatment programme, reflecting the seriousness of his past convictions and current conduct. Additionally, Walton was ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £85.

In her closing remarks, Judge Rees warned Walton about the importance of adhering strictly to the conditions of his community order. She cautioned that any future deception or breach of the order could lead to more severe penalties, including potential imprisonment. Her final words served as a stern reminder of the consequences of dishonesty and the importance of compliance with court-mandated requirements.