SHEM JONES FROM HAVERFORDWEST SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL OFFENSES INVOLVING UNDER-AGE GIRLS IN CAMBRIDGE

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local communities and raised serious concerns about online grooming and exploitation, Shem Jones, a 30-year-old man from Haverfordwest, was sentenced to prison for engaging in sexual activities with two under-age girls and subsequently recording these acts on video. The incident took place in September 2011, but the repercussions and legal proceedings culminated recently, bringing the case to a close at Cambridge Crown Court.

Jones was arrested after authorities uncovered footage stored on his personal computer, which clearly depicted him engaging in sexual acts with two girls, both aged 14. The police investigation revealed that Jones had been in possession of this incriminating material for several months, raising concerns about the extent of his misconduct and the potential for further victims. During the trial, Jones admitted to two charges of sexual activity with minors, with the incidents dating back to the day his case was scheduled to be heard earlier this year.

The court heard that one of the victims was from Cambridgeshire, and the other from north-east England. The prosecution detailed how Jones, who was residing in Haverfordwest, had traveled to Cambridge on September 16, 2011. It was established that he had initially groomed one of the girls through social media, specifically on the platform Qeep.net. The grooming process involved manipulation and exploitation, which ultimately led to the girls meeting Jones near Linton, where he had set up a tent and purchased alcohol and food, seemingly to facilitate the encounter.

According to court testimony, the situation turned sinister when the first girl attempted to enter the tent. Jones allegedly grabbed her and pulled her back, then kissed her on the lips. The court was told that Jones then engaged in sexual activity with both girls, recording some of the acts on his mobile phone. This footage was later downloaded onto his computer, further evidencing his guilt.

Detective Sergeant Amerjit Singh, the investigating officer, commented on the case, stating, “Shem Jones used social media to groom young girls who were easily manipulated in order to satisfy his deprived sexual fantasies. It is thanks to the bravery of the victims who came forward and gave evidence that we have had a successful conviction and there were not more victims.”

During the sentencing hearing, the defense highlighted that Jones had spent six years at university, earning two degrees, but had become increasingly isolated in recent years. Karina Arden, representing the defense, explained, “He found himself in a situation where he was totally isolated, working and living without any human contact except on the internet.”

Judge Gareth Hawkesworth sentenced Jones to four years in prison for each of the two charges, with the sentences to run concurrently. Additionally, Jones will be placed on the sex offenders’ register for life, and his movements will be subject to ongoing police monitoring. The case underscores the dangers of online grooming and the importance of vigilance in protecting vulnerable minors from exploitation.