Caerphilly man jailed for child sex offence and assault on officer

A man has been sentenced for a sex offence involving a 14-year-old boy, which was committed under the influence of alcohol. The offender, Gary Wood, aged 39 and from Caerphilly, was found guilty by a jury last month of sexual activity with a minor, as well as assault by beating of police officer PC Lewys Kinsey. Both crimes occurred on the same day in Caerphilly county during the summer of 2023. Wood had denied both charges. During the sentencing at Newport Crown Court, prosecutor Nik Strobl shared the victim's impact statement, where the victim expressed suffering from stress, anxiety, and nightmares, stating, 'My innocence has been taken from me,' and highlighting the mental health impact of Wood’s acts.Kevin Seal, representing Wood who has no prior convictions, described the proceedings as life-upending for his client and expressed the profound effect on Wood’s mother, who has since moved home after nearly 20 years. Seal mentioned the offence was impulsive and caused no alcohol to be offered or consumed to facilitate the crime, emphasizing Wood’s vulnerability in prison. Judge Recorder Andrew Hammond described the offence as serious, noting its substantial impact on the victim and condemning the attack on PC Kinsey as 'disgraceful'. The judge acknowledged Wood was intoxicated and had a difficult upbringing but was assessed as a low risk of reoffending. Wood received a six-month jail sentence suspended for 12 months, a fine of £400, and a victim surcharge of £154. He is also required to register as a sex offender for seven years and must adhere to a five-year restraining order preventing contact with the victim. Additionally, he will complete a 20-day rehabilitation program.