PONTYPOOL MAN MATTHEW HUMPHRY CAUGHT IN ONLINE SEXUAL CHAT WITH UNDERAGE GIRL IN LEICESTERSHIRE

In April 2021, a disturbing case emerged involving a father from Pontypool named Matthew Humphry, aged 40, who deliberately withdrew from his family life during the COVID-19 lockdown period to engage in illicit online conversations with underage girls. His actions, which took place over several weeks, culminated in a police raid that uncovered disturbing evidence of his predatory behavior.

Humphry’s online activities came to light when Leicestershire Police executed a search warrant at his residence. During the raid, authorities seized his computer and discovered a series of incriminating communications. Among these was a conversation with a girl identified as “Emily,” who was, in fact, an undercover police officer. The chat revealed Humphry’s explicit interest in a 13-year-old girl, with whom he exchanged sexually explicit messages.

According to prosecutor Nicola Moore, the exchanges with “Emily” began in May of the previous year and continued over a period of approximately six weeks. During their conversations, Humphry asked invasive questions about her physical development, such as whether she had pubic hair, and made inappropriate comments about her appearance, suggesting she would look “fantastic in a bikini” and talking about applying sun tan lotion to her.

Further into the chat, Humphry suggested they meet in person and made threatening remarks about discipline, stating that if she was “naughty,” he would “smack her bottom.” He also expressed a desire to have sex with her, claiming he would be gentle and that she would enjoy the experience. These conversations clearly demonstrated his intent to engage in sexual activity with a minor.

Following his arrest, Humphry faced charges of attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child and inciting sexual activity. He subsequently pleaded guilty to both charges, acknowledging the severity of his actions.

Humphry, who now resides in Chester Close, Pontypool, Wales, expressed remorse and has been receiving counseling to address his behavior. His legal representative, Mr. Newcombe, emphasized that his client recognizes the gravity of his misconduct and is committed to understanding the underlying issues that led to his offending.

During the sentencing hearing, Recorder William Harbage QC highlighted the disturbing nature of Humphry’s conduct. He stated, “What was going on was clearly for your sexual gratification and demonstrated a sexual interest in teenage girls or, more worryingly, underage girls. It is obviously very wrong and you, belatedly, have admitted that.” The judge further warned that individuals who offend against real 13-year-old girls typically face immediate imprisonment.

As a result, Humphry was sentenced to four months in prison, suspended for two years. Additionally, he was ordered to participate in 30 days of probation programs and to sign the sex offenders register for the next seven years, reflecting the serious nature of his crimes and the ongoing risk he poses to the community.