MAN JAILED FOR ATTEMPTING TO GROOM 'GIRL' ON SOCIAL MEDIA
A 33-year-old Simon Howard from Llanybydder in Carmarthenshire has been found guilty of engaging in disturbing predatory behaviour aimed at a child he believed to be 12 years old.The incident unfolded through social media interactions, where Howard attempted to groom what he thought was a young girl, but in reality, he was communicating with an undercover officer from Tarian, the Regional Organised Crime Unit for southern Wales.
The court proceedings revealed that Howard was actively involved in conversations that clearly indicated he was aware he was speaking to a minor.
During these exchanges, he not only acknowledged the child's age but also described in graphic detail various sexual acts.
His intentions to meet with the supposed child were also explicitly discussed, highlighting the severity of his predatory conduct.
Howard’s guilty plea led to his sentencing on October 9, where he was sentenced to six years in prison.
Additionally, he is required to register as a sex offender for a decade and is subject to a sexual harm prevention order that will remain in effect for the same period.
These measures are designed to monitor and restrict his activities to prevent further harm.
The investigation was a collaborative effort, led by officers from Tarian with support from Dyfed-Powys Police.
Detective Inspector Mathew Davies of Tarian emphasized the importance of this joint operation, stating, “This is excellent joint working between Tarian and Dyfed Powys Police.
The focus of the operation was to target high harm offenders, whilst safeguarding and protecting children.” Detective Inspector Leon Lewis from Dyfed-Powys CID also commented on the case, highlighting the seriousness of Howard’s actions: “Simon Howard displayed predatory behaviour and groomed who he believed was a 12-year-old child.
It is our absolute priority to protect and keep children safe in our communities.
The work carried out by Tarian Regional Organised Crime Unit and Dyfed Powys Police has helped to ensure that vulnerable children are protected from the risk Howard poses to them.”
