CHRISTOPHER GOULD FROM MAESTEG SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT AND ONLINE ABUSE IN BRIDGEND

A disturbing case has emerged involving Christopher Gould, a prison officer based at HMP Parc in Bridgend, who committed serious sexual offences against a young woman and engaged in malicious online activities to manipulate and control her. The incident was brought to light during a court hearing at Cardiff Crown Court, revealing a pattern of predatory behavior aimed at the teenage victim.

Gould, aged 45 and residing in Maesteg, employed a series of fake social media profiles to establish a false sense of friendship with the young woman and her friends. This tactic allowed him to keep a close watch on her movements and social interactions, effectively monitoring her life from behind a digital facade. His manipulative tactics extended beyond online stalking; he also impersonated a disgruntled customer at her workplace, sending a malicious email under a pseudonym to her employer. This malicious act resulted in her losing her job, adding to the distress caused by Gould’s actions.

The sexual assault occurred after a night out when the victim was feeling vulnerable, upset, and paranoid, believing she was being stalked due to the relentless online harassment she endured. In her moment of distress, she confided in Gould, whom she believed to be a caring and trustworthy adult. Tragically, this trust was exploited, as Gould was the mastermind behind the online campaign against her. After giving her a lift home, Gould sexually assaulted her, an act that has left deep scars.

In her personal statement, which was read aloud in court, the victim described the profound impact Gould’s actions had on her life. She stated, “He tried to destroy me and my life. It led to me having a deep mistrust of others – something I worry will take a long time to overcome. I felt sick, I couldn't eat, I would hyperventilate, and went into a downward spiral. It has left me constantly looking over my shoulder for danger... I want Chris to know he loses his power over me. I refuse to allow his twisted, abusive, and controlling behaviours to dictate my future.”

Gould, who was charged with controlling, coercive behavior and malicious communications, pleaded guilty to these offences. However, he denied the sexual assault allegations, but the jury found him guilty of that charge. Although he had no prior convictions, he had received a caution for theft in 2016. His legal representative, Owen Williams, explained that Gould had worked as a prison officer for seven months before resigning following the allegations. He later found employment in the insurance sector but was dismissed after the guilty verdict. Williams added that Gould is currently living with his elderly and unwell parents, providing care for them.

The judge described Gould as “completely obsessed and infatuated” with the young woman, emphasizing his attempts to control, dominate, and sexually abuse her. As a result, Gould was sentenced to four years in prison. He will serve half of this sentence in custody, with the remainder on licence, and is also required to pay a victim services surcharge of £190.

Detective Constable Cath Moore of South Wales Police highlighted the bravery of the victim, stating, “This was a complex case where the victim showed tenacity and courage to come forward and make a complaint. After a prolonged investigation, we were able to link the social media and email accounts back to Christopher Gould. It takes tremendous courage and bravery for victims of sexual offences to revisit what are often traumatic times in their lives, especially when these offences remain hidden from family and friends. My message to victims out there is that it is never too late to come forward and report matters. We will fully support you and do everything we can to bring abusers to justice.”