RHYS THOMAS FROM SAMWAYS AND PLYMOUTH CIRCUS INSTRUCTOR JAILED FOR ABUSING BOYS

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community, Rhys Thomas, a man known for his roles as a childminder, scout leader, and circus instructor in Samways and Plymouth, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term for a series of heinous sexual offenses committed over nearly two decades. The court heard how Thomas exploited the trust placed in him by parents and the community, using his various positions to carry out a pattern of abuse that left lasting scars on his victims.

Rhys Thomas, aged 42, was found guilty of 19 separate sexual offenses against eight boys aged between 10 and 16. The offenses spanned from 1995 to 2013, during which he manipulated and molested his victims in a variety of disturbing ways. The court was told that Thomas would subject boys to humiliating and bizarre scenarios, including dressing them in Victorian-style clothing and nappies, feeding them with bottles, and engaging in kinky games that satisfied his twisted fantasies.

The court proceedings revealed that Thomas, who was also a trapeze instructor and involved in youth circus activities, had managed to deceive many parents into believing he was a trustworthy mentor. His charismatic demeanor masked a dark secret, as he carried out his sickening acts in private, often at his home in Samways or during circus events. The abuse was uncovered after a 13-year-old victim confided in others during a circus festival, leading to police investigations that uncovered a disturbing collection of evidence.

One victim recounted how he was subjected to a bizarre 'punishment' at Thomas's residence while his wife was away. The victim described being made to wear nappies, be fed from a bottle, and then be spanked or paddled. Several other boys confirmed similar experiences, with some being made to dress in Victorian attire and participate in humiliating games. The youngest victim was only ten years old. The victims' accounts painted a picture of a man who used his positions of trust to carry out prolonged and systematic abuse.

Police investigations, aided by detailed records kept by organizations Thomas was affiliated with, traced his activities back to 1995. Officers discovered a large trunk hidden in his loft, filled with clothing and items matching the descriptions provided by victims—adult-sized nappies, Victorian costumes, baby dummies, and other adult-sized clothing items such as rompers, bibs, and bonnets. These items underscored the extent of his disturbing fantasies and the premeditation involved in his abuse.

Victims and their families provided emotional impact statements during the trial, describing feelings of betrayal and shame. One victim expressed how he felt so betrayed that he couldn't even speak to his own mother after being left alone with Thomas. A mother of one of the victims described Thomas as a “callous, scheming deceitful, malicious and completely narcissistic man,” and pleaded for a lengthy sentence to allow him time to reflect on his actions.

Rhys Thomas, who is married, showed no remorse during the sentencing hearing. He sat with his back to the courtroom, refusing to meet the gaze of his victims. His defense attorney, Ali Rafati, stated that Thomas regretted his behavior and wished to apologize, but his words carried little weight given the gravity of his crimes. The judge, Paul Darlow, sentenced Thomas to six years and eight months in prison, emphasizing the devastating impact his actions had on the victims' lives.

In addition to his prison sentence, Thomas was issued an indefinite restraining order to keep him away from his victims. He was also placed on the Sexual Offenders Register and barred from working with children or vulnerable adults in the future. Detective Inspector Barry Walter, who led the investigation, commented on the case, highlighting the betrayal felt by families who had once trusted Thomas. He noted that some families had even invited him into their homes and taken him on holidays, unaware of his true nature. Walter emphasized that some victims did not initially recognize their experiences as abuse but now understood the severity of what had happened to them.

This case has brought to light the dangers posed by individuals who exploit their positions of trust for personal gratification. The community and authorities continue to emphasize the importance of vigilance and safeguarding measures to protect vulnerable children from predators like Rhys Thomas.