Ryan Thomas, 33, has been sentenced to 13 months in prison after forcibly kissing a 14-year-old girl in Caerphilly and sending an unsolicited obscene video to another woman. The disturbing incidents have raised concerns about public safety and the risks posed by repeat sexual offenders.
The court heard that Thomas followed the teenage girl home in Caerphilly, hugged her, and then kissed her without her consent. Prior to this, he had approached the girl and a friend, offering to walk them home, an offer they declined.
In a separate incident, another woman received a shocking video from Thomas showing his erect penis. Thomas claimed the video was sent by accident and denied any intention of sexual gratification. The video was accompanied by a message referencing the use of Viagra and maintaining an erection for some time.
The woman described waking up to the video as “vulgar, deeply concerning and repulsive.” She also revealed that the incident caused ongoing anxiety and fear for her personal safety.
Thomas, who lives on Garn Street in Abercarn, has a history of sexual offences including assault and exposure. Previously, he followed a female student home from her job at a bar, exposed himself to her, and then fled to Ireland. He was also deported from Australia for similar offences just six months before committing the recent crimes in the UK.
The teenage victim expressed relief after the guilty verdict, stating, “Ryan Thomas being found guilty makes me happy and feel justice has been served. I was anxious and scared about facing Thomas in court. I’m relieved the investigation is over but still concerned for my safety.”
The woman who received the lewd video added, “The distress I’ve experienced is profound. I haven’t slept since, withdrew from social media, and worry constantly about my safety and my child’s.”
Defence lawyer Jeffrey Jones noted that Thomas had secured full-time employment before being remanded in custody. However, Judge Matthew Porter-Bryant criticised Thomas for an “ingrained inclination of sexual offending” and imposed a 13-month prison sentence.
In addition to the prison term, Thomas faces 10-year restraining orders, a sex offender notification requirement, and a sexual harm prevention order, all lasting for a decade.
Originally published by UKNIP.
