LESLEY ASSER, WAYNE BARNES, AND KEITH BOLD: NEATH, NEATH ABBEY, AND ROSS-ON-WYE PAEDOPHILE RING EXPOSED

In a disturbing case that has shocked communities across South Wales and beyond, three men have been convicted and sentenced for their involvement in a heinous online child abuse network. The offenders, Leslie Asser from Ross-on-Wye, Wayne Barnes from Neath, and Keith Bold, formerly of Neath Abbey, were found guilty of encouraging and facilitating the sexual exploitation of children under the age of 13 through internet chatrooms and digital media.

Leslie Asser, aged 54, received a 30-month prison sentence after admitting to encouraging others to commit sexual assault on a minor. His involvement was part of a broader pattern of online activity that included the distribution of illegal images. Similarly, Wayne Barnes, aged 50, from Neath, was sentenced to 27 months after also admitting to encouraging the sexual abuse of children. Both men had previously confessed to their roles in fostering a depraved environment where such acts could be discussed and promoted.

Keith Bold, who was already serving a 28-month sentence for possessing over 6,000 images and 181 video clips depicting child abuse, was handed an additional 18 months for his continued involvement in the online abuse network. His previous conviction highlighted the severity of his crimes, which involved extensive digital material of child exploitation.

The case was brought to light after police investigations uncovered the extent of the online activities. The authorities revealed that these men used internet chatrooms to contact and communicate with other paedophiles, creating a dangerous web of mutual encouragement and depravity. Although none of the men physically carried out abuse, the judge emphasized that their actions contributed to a harmful environment that fuels such criminal behavior.

Judge Paul Thomas presided over the case at Swansea Crown Court and acknowledged the disturbing nature of the crimes. He pointed out that the internet, while a tool for communication, also facilitates the easy connection of individuals with sick-minded intentions. The judge stated, “sick-minded individuals like you four can get easily in touch and fuel and encourage each other’s depravity,” underscoring the danger posed by online anonymity.

The sentencing also touched on the backgrounds of the offenders. Leslie Asser was described as a man who had once been a respected member of the community, living in Ross-on-Wye, but whose life had taken a dark turn. The court heard that Asser’s actions were a betrayal of the trust placed in him as a police officer. Wayne Barnes, from Neath, and Keith Bold, from Neath Abbey, also faced their sentences with the gravity they deserved, reflecting the seriousness of their crimes.

In mitigation, it was noted that Leslie Asser’s decline was partly due to personal struggles following injuries sustained while on duty. His lawyer, Tim Evans, explained that Asser’s life had spiraled downward after being run down while attempting to arrest car thieves, suffering injuries that led to depression and excessive drinking. Despite these circumstances, the court made it clear that the crimes committed were unforgivable and warranted significant punishment.

Judge Thomas concluded by emphasizing the betrayal of public trust involved in these cases. He stated, “You were a man the public ought to have looked up to. I accept that you were an admirable police officer who suffered injury on more than one occasion. For several years you lived a lie clothed in the respectability of a police officer and purporting to have moral superiority over others.” The sentences handed down serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against online child exploitation and the importance of vigilance in protecting vulnerable children from such predatory behavior.