GERALD SAMUELS FROM NEWPORT SENTENCED FOR RAPE AND CHILD SEX OFFENCES IN WIDESPREAD CRIMES

In a case that has shocked the Newport community, Gerald Samuels, a 55-year-old man residing on Monnow Way, was sentenced to 15 years in prison after admitting to a series of heinous sexual offences spanning over two decades. The crimes, which involved multiple victims, ranged from indecent assaults to rape, and included the exploitation of both children and vulnerable adults.

During the proceedings at Newport Crown Court, it was revealed that the offences took place between 1984 and 2009, affecting a total of five victims. Prosecutor Caroline Rees detailed the disturbing nature of Samuels' actions, emphasizing his predatory behavior aimed at young and vulnerable females to satisfy his sexual urges. She recounted that with one child victim, Samuels repeatedly coerced her into touching him sexually and asked her to perform sexual acts on him so frequently that she eventually lost count.

One of the most serious allegations involved Samuels raping an adult woman, an assault that left her pregnant. Ms. Rees also disclosed that Samuels had met two of his victims in Newport pubs. These victims were described as vulnerable schoolgirls with whom he established relationships, only to later coerce them into performing sexual acts. The court heard that Samuels, who struggled with a drug habit, had also slipped amphetamine into one victim’s drink, leading her to develop a dependency on the drug.

The impact of these crimes on the victims was profound. One victim, in a police interview, described Samuels as an “evil, evil man,” highlighting the deep emotional scars left behind. The court was told that the trauma had led to self-harming behaviors, with one victim resorting to using razors to inflict harm upon herself.

In his defense, solicitor Lucy Crowther stated that Samuels was aware of the wrongfulness of his actions and expressed remorse, asserting that “there will definitely be no more of this matter. It is at an end.” However, Judge William Gaskell did not hold back in his sentencing remarks, condemning Samuels as a “deeply depraved man” and warning that any young person who encountered him was at significant risk of further abuse.

As part of his sentence, Samuels was ordered to register as a sex offender upon his release. Additionally, he is prohibited from contacting or communicating with any children in private or working with children until further notice or court order. The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by individuals like Samuels and the importance of vigilance in protecting vulnerable members of society.