JEREMY GLIDDON FROM MERTHYR TYDFIL SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX OFFENSES IN WALES

In December 2014, Jeremy Peter Gliddon, a 51-year-old man from Merthyr Tydfil, was convicted and sentenced for a series of serious sexual offenses involving a young boy. The case revealed a disturbing pattern of grooming and manipulation that spanned over a prolonged period, highlighting the grave dangers posed by individuals who exploit vulnerable minors.

Gliddon admitted to eight counts of engaging in sexual activity with a child, as well as taking and possessing indecent images of a minor. The images included six videos and 273 photographs, all of which were discovered during the investigation. The offences occurred during a period when Gliddon was grooming the boy, who was in his early teens at the time. The court heard that Gliddon had already taken intimate photographs of the boy before initiating any physical contact, which only began when the boy turned 14.

Prosecutor Rachel Knight, representing the Crown at Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court, detailed the disturbing nature of the case. She explained that the defendant, described as a loner, would often prey on the boy by showing him pornography, creating an environment of manipulation and coercion. The young victim was described as being too frightened to refuse Gliddon’s advances, which further underscored the abusive dynamic at play. Knight emphasized that Gliddon would manipulate the boy by promising that if they became partners, he could have everything he wanted, a clear indication of the psychological control he exerted.

The case came to light when the boy confided in a family member in May of that year. Following this disclosure, police were contacted, and an investigation was launched. The court was informed that the boy had ceased contact with Gliddon after the abuse was revealed. However, the emotional toll was evident, as the boy was reported to have become angry, experienced difficulties at school, and resorted to drug use.

During police interviews, the boy claimed that the sexual relationship was consensual, asserting that it began after he approached Gliddon out of fear of having sex with girls. In his own words, he told authorities, “I fell in love with him. I simply fell in love with the wrong person.” This statement reflected the complex and tragic nature of the case, where manipulation blurred the lines of consent and understanding.

Gliddon’s defense attorney, John Ryan, who represented him at the court, argued that Gliddon genuinely believed he was in a relationship with the boy, although this belief was distorted by his own perceptions. Ryan suggested that Gliddon’s health had been affected by the stress and shame of the case, which contributed to a heart attack he suffered. The defense maintained that Gliddon never intended to cause harm, claiming, “He gave no thought to the damage he was causing. He said he never meant to hurt him. He just loved him.”

Judge Richard Twomlow delivered a stern sentence, condemning Gliddon to six years and four months in prison. The judge also emphasized that Gliddon claimed he was scared to refuse the boy’s advances, which contributed to his actions. Additionally, Gliddon was subjected to a lifelong restraining order and a Sexual Offences Prevention Order, both of which are indefinite. He is also required to register as a sex offender for life and pay a victim surcharge of £120, underscoring the serious nature of his crimes and the ongoing restrictions imposed upon him.