PAUL ROBERTS CAUGHT IN SWANSEA BRUTALITY: BRIDGEND MAN'S CRIMES AT LC LEISURE CENTRE

In a disturbing incident that has shocked the communities of Swansea and Bridgend, Paul Roberts, aged 40, was found guilty of sexually assaulting a six-year-old girl at the Swansea LC leisure centre in June of this year. The attack occurred while the young girl was enjoying her time swimming, an activity meant for innocent recreation, but was marred by Roberts' heinous actions.

Roberts, who resides at Y Gorlan Maes Y Felin in Bridgend, was already under a Sexual Offences Prevention Order at the time of the assault. This order had been imposed in April 2011 at Cardiff Crown Court following a previous incident where he assaulted another young girl at a swimming pool. Despite the restrictions placed upon him, Roberts violated the order multiple times, including visiting the Swansea leisure centre, which led to the latest offense.

During the June incident, Roberts went beyond the boundaries of his legal restrictions by entering the swimming area and unlawfully placing his hands inside the young girl’s bikini, subsequently touching her thigh. The bravery of two teenagers present at the scene was instrumental in apprehending Roberts. They managed to detain him until law enforcement authorities arrived, a courageous act that was publicly recognized and praised by Judge Paul Thomas.

Judge Thomas commended the teenagers for their bravery, stating, “I will provide a written judge’s commendation for both, in recognition for what I think is great bravery, to bring this defendant to the attention of the police and what is tantamount to a citizen’s arrest.” The judge emphasized that their actions played a crucial role in ensuring Roberts was brought to justice.

In his subsequent interview with a probation officer, Roberts admitted to having visited several other swimming pools across West Wales since the original order was put in place, indicating a pattern of disregard for legal restrictions. Following his arrest, Roberts expressed remorse, stating, “I cannot behave myself.”

Roberts chose to plead guilty on the day of his trial, thereby sparing the young victim the ordeal of giving evidence in court. During the proceedings, Judge Thomas remarked on the innocence and resilience of the girl, noting, “She is a healthy and well-adjusted child, but that is no thanks to you. It’s thanks to her parents.” The judge further condemned Roberts’ apparent inability to control his attraction to children, stating, “There’s no doubt you have an attraction to young children which you are unable to control.”

Sentencing Roberts to 30 months in prison, Judge Thomas also ordered that he be subject to an indefinite Sexual Offences Prevention Order and required to register as a sex offender. Roberts was also informed that he would be monitored closely by various agencies during his time in custody. His legal representative, John Hipkin, indicated that Roberts would participate in an intensive sex offender treatment program while incarcerated, highlighting efforts to address his behavior and prevent future offenses.

This case underscores the ongoing challenges faced by authorities in managing offenders like Roberts, whose repeated violations and predatory behavior pose significant risks to the safety of children and the community at large.