WREXHAM EX-TAEKWONDO CHAMPION GLEN EDWARDS SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL OFFENCES INVOLVING BOYS
Glen Edwards, a 32-year-old former world champion and coach in Taekwondo, based in Acrefair, Wrexham, has been handed a prison sentence of six years and ten months following his conviction on multiple serious charges related to sexual misconduct involving minors.Edwards faced a total of 14 counts, which included allegations of engaging in sexual activity with a child, communicating sexually with a minor, and encouraging a child to watch sexual acts.
Although he initially denied all charges, claiming innocence, the court found him guilty of 12 of these counts based on what the judge described as 'quite overwhelming evidence.' The sentencing took place on Monday, July 29, at Mold Crown Court, presided over by Judge Niclas Parry.
During the proceedings, the judge highlighted the presence of eight victims, many of whom expressed admiration for Edwards’s achievements in sport, describing them as being 'in awe of your remarkable achievements.' Despite his athletic accomplishments, Judge Parry emphasized that Edwards showed 'no remorse whatsoever' for his actions.
In a pointed remark, the judge noted Edwards’s bizarre claim that he was targeted solely because of his gender, dismissing it as unfounded.
While Edwards was recognized as an 'accomplished athlete,' the judge made it clear that his reputation in the sporting world was now 'professionally ruined.' As part of his sentence, Edwards is required to register as a sex offender for life.
At the time of sentencing, Edwards was in custody at Berwyn jail in Wrexham, appearing via a video link.
His legal representative, Jemma Gordon, explained that due to his convictions, Edwards no longer had access to his home address.
Throughout the trial, the emotional toll was evident, with a female juror visibly tearful as the proceedings concluded.
The judge acknowledged the distress caused to the jury, stating, 'You have had to listen to some harrowing evidence.
It’s had an impact on some of you.
I am extremely sorry for any distress that was understandably caused.' Prosecutor Simon Rogers described how Edwards had groomed young boys, noting that he lacked 'any boundaries.' Rogers emphasized that Edwards’s charm and charisma were deceptive, masking his true sexual interests.
The prosecution painted a picture of a man who exploited his position and reputation to prey on vulnerable minors.
During the trial, Edwards admitted to having a sexual conversation with a minor, claiming it was merely a 'joke.' However, the court was told that he had engaged in more serious misconduct, including sending explicit images of his groin and a video of himself in the shower to boys.
One victim recounted receiving a video of Edwards naked, while others described discussions of sexual matters and requests for photographs.
Another young person testified that Edwards had asked him a lewd personal question, and messages included a greeting of 'hi sexy' accompanied by kisses.
Edwards maintained that he was not communicating in a sexual manner, but he was described by another victim as 'suggestive.' Furthermore, Edwards faced allegations related to child pornography, which he admitted.
The evidence presented painted a disturbing picture of a man who used his athletic status and charm to manipulate and exploit minors for sexual gratification, leading to his conviction and subsequent imprisonment.
