Paedo Dad on the Run After Sons Help Him Flee UK
Brothers Walk Free Despite Helping Flee Sex Offender Father
Two brothers who helped their sex offender dad dodge a UK conviction have dodged jail themselves. Anthony Sousa, 32, and Jorge Sandoval, 29, secured suspended sentences for aiding their father, Gualberto Santos, 58, to escape the country and avoid a child sex offences conviction.
Dad Found Guilty, Flees Before Sentence
Santos was convicted in absentia in October 2023 of sending sexual messages to someone he thought was a 12-year-old girl and trying to meet her. The convicted paedo skipped town before sentencing and is believed to be hiding in Portugal. If caught, he faces four years behind bars.
The Escape Plot Unveiled
- On 31 October, as Santos’ trial at Snaresbrook Crown Court wrapped up, Sousa bought his dad a ticket to France.
- Both sons saw him off at London Victoria station.
- Sandoval also handed him a rucksack for the journey.
Prosecutor Jonathan Wright told the court:
“There has been no return of Santos Snr and I see no evidence of efforts by the family to request and persuade him to come back to the country.”
‘Out of Love’—Judge Shows Leniency
Santos’ wife pleaded with him to come back, but he refused, even while his sons awaited sentencing in custody. Their defence lawyer said the brothers acted out of love for their father.
Judge Ross Cohen agreed, saying:
“I accept that you are both remorseful and were let down terribly by your father.”
Sousa and Sandoval were handed 20-month prison sentences, suspended for two years, plus 80 hours of unpaid work.
Fugitive Father Still on the Loose
Police are still hunting Santos, who remains at large and is believed to be holed up in Portugal. Authorities urge anyone with information to step forward.
