PAUL RODWAY FROM BIRCHGROVE SENTENCED TO NINE YEARS FOR CHILD SEX OFFENCES IN CARDIFF

In a case that has shocked the local community, Paul Geraint Rodway, a 36-year-old manager from Birchgrove, was sentenced to nine years in prison for a series of serious sexual offences committed against a child. The conviction followed a detailed and emotionally charged trial at Cardiff Crown Court, where the victim’s testimony was presented via video link, allowing the young person to give evidence from a separate room while the jury observed and listened to the account.

Rodway, who resided on Pantbach Avenue in Birchgrove, faced multiple charges including one count of rape, four counts of attempted rape, four counts of indecent assault, and two counts of gross indecency with a child. Throughout the proceedings, Rodway maintained his innocence, denying all allegations and claiming that no misconduct had occurred. Despite his denials, the jury found him guilty of all charges after a three-day trial.

The evidence presented was compelling, with the victim recounting how Rodway had coerced them into performing sexual acts and submitting to his demands, often telling the young person to 'shut up' during the abuse. The Crown prosecutor, Richard Twomlow, emphasized the severity of the offences, highlighting the manipulative and abusive nature of Rodway’s actions.

Judge Roderick Denyer QC delivered the sentence, which was immediate, with no adjournment for reports or mitigation. Rodway, who was employed as a depot manager for a tool hire company based in Port Talbot, was taken directly from the court to begin serving his prison term. The case has left a lasting impact on the community, raising concerns about safety and the protection of vulnerable children in the area.