In a disturbing case that has sent shockwaves through the community, former police officer Lewis Edwards has been handed a life sentence for committing over 100 sexual offences against children. Edwards, 24, admitted guilt to 22 counts of blackmail, 138 child sex offences, and an additional charge of refusing to disclose passwords to electronic devices.

Edwards, who worked for South Wales Police, carried out the majority of his offences while serving as an officer. Upon his arrest, he was immediately suspended from duty and later resigned.

The sentencing, delivered by Judge Tracey Lloyd-Clarke at Cardiff Crown Court, outlined the severity of Edwards’ actions. Using fake Snapchat accounts, he posed as a 14-year-old boy to groom over 200 girls between the ages of 10 and 16 online. Edwards not only solicited indecent images but also blackmailed many of his victims, threatening to expose their photos or harm their families if they did not comply.

The court heard distressing details of Edwards’ manipulative behavior, with victims reporting psychological grooming and threats even when they were crying or distressed. The judge emphasised that Edwards continued his abuse even when victims disclosed self-harm or suicidal thoughts.

Despite Edwards’ refusal to appear for sentencing, Judge Lloyd-Clarke expressed the inability to force his attendance. She described his pattern of behavior, stating, “He groomed his victims, psychologically manipulating them until he had gained control.” The judge highlighted the aggravating factors, including the prolonged duration of the offences, the high number of victims, and the nature of the images involved.

While acknowledging that Edwards did not exploit his police position to commit these crimes, the judge emphasised that he alone bore the responsibility for his actions. She added that the sentence is “aggravated by the period of time over which these offences were committed, the number of victims, the number of images, almost all of which were moving images.”

Despite the significant harm caused to the reputation of South Wales Police, the judge recognised the force’s efforts in bringing Edwards to justice. Assistant Chief Constable Danny Richards reiterated that there is “no place” for individuals who abuse their responsibilities as police officers, emphasising that Edwards had passed vetting when joining the force, with no indications of his involvement in such crimes at that time.