ANDREW GOODWIN'S SHOCKING CHILD SEX ABUSE IMAGE SCANDAL IN COEDPOETH, WREXHAM

In October 2018, a disturbing case emerged involving Andrew Goodwin, a man with disabilities residing in Coedpoeth near Wrexham, who was sentenced in connection with the possession of illegal child sexual abuse images. The case drew significant attention due to the nature of the offenses and Goodwin’s physical condition.

Authorities from North Wales Police, in collaboration with the National Crime Agency (NCA), responded to intelligence indicating that Goodwin’s residence on Heol Bryniog was being used as a hub for downloading and storing illicit images. The investigation revealed that the computer systems at his home were employing sophisticated file-sharing software designed to mask the user’s identity and location, making it difficult to trace the activity directly to him. This software allowed the user to surf the internet anonymously, with the IP address appearing as if it originated from different locations, sometimes even from abroad.

Despite these efforts to conceal his activities, investigators managed to establish that the illegal downloads originated from Goodwin’s home. Last October, police executed a search warrant at his residence, leading to the seizure of multiple electronic devices. During the subsequent investigation, it was confirmed that Goodwin, who was wheeled into court by his full-time carer—his wife—had downloaded a significant number of illegal images and videos.

Goodwin admitted to the court that he had downloaded a total of 82 images and movies classified as Category A, which is the most severe classification for child abuse material. Additionally, he acknowledged possessing 41 images at Category B and 59 at Category C. The material also included 105 extreme images depicting sexual acts involving humans and animals, including dogs, which added to the gravity of his offenses.

At North East Wales Magistrates Court, the judge condemned Goodwin’s actions, describing his offending as appalling and well beyond the threshold for custodial sentence. Despite the severity, Goodwin was sentenced to 12 months in prison, but this was suspended for two years, meaning he would not serve time unless he committed further offenses within that period.

Furthermore, Goodwin was ordered to register as a sex offender with the police for the next ten years. A 10-year sexual harm prevention order was also imposed to restrict his activities and prevent any potential reoffending. As part of his rehabilitation, he was instructed to complete 60 days of behavioral therapy aimed at addressing his conduct and reducing the risk of future offenses. The court also mandated that he pay costs of £85 and a surcharge of £140.

Prosecutor Rhian Jackson clarified that there was no evidence to suggest Goodwin had shared the images with others, emphasizing that his possession alone was a serious offense. The court heard that Goodwin’s wife had informed officers of his mental health issues and physical health problems. It was noted that he appeared to suffer from severe anxiety, requiring reassurance from his wife during police proceedings. Despite being in bed at the time of arrest, it was confirmed that Goodwin understood the situation and was aware of what was happening.

During the investigation, authorities seized various computer-related items from his home. The images found included children aged between three and 15, both boys and girls, involved in sexually explicit material. Goodwin provided a prepared statement to police, in which he admitted to the offenses, acknowledging his actions and the illegal content stored on his devices.