SIMON THOMAS FROM PENPARCAU CAUGHT WITH OVER 600 CHILD ABUSE IMAGES IN ABERYSTWYTH AND FLINTSHIRE

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community, Simon Thomas, a 54-year-old resident of Penparcau near Aberystwyth, has been found guilty of possessing a vast collection of indecent images and videos of children. The allegations came to light in July when authorities discovered more than 600 illegal images at his home, prompting a detailed investigation and subsequent court proceedings.

Thomas, a former Welsh Assembly member representing Mid and West Wales, appeared before Aberystwyth Magistrates' Court to face charges related to the possession of these illicit materials. He pleaded guilty to three counts of making indecent images of children, which included a combination of still photographs and moving videos. The images were categorized into different levels of severity, with a significant portion classified as Category A, indicating the most serious nature of the content.

The court was informed that the police found 150 images and videos at Thomas's residence, all of which fell into the highest category of illegal content. Specifically, Thomas admitted to creating 94 still images and 56 videos of Category A, which depict the most severe form of child abuse material. Additionally, he acknowledged producing 87 still images and 16 videos of Category B, along with 354 still images and five videos of Category C, which are considered less severe but still illegal.

During the hearing, District Judge Gwyn Jones emphasized the gravity of the offences, noting that the crimes committed by Thomas are extremely serious. Although he initially considered the possibility of an immediate custodial sentence, the judge ultimately decided to suspend the 26-week prison term for two years. The suspension was granted on the condition that Thomas collaborates with the Probation Service to address the underlying issues that led to his offending.

Furthermore, the court imposed several restrictions to prevent future harm. Thomas was ordered to observe a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for the next seven years, which restricts his use of computers and electronic devices. He is also prohibited from deleting any internet browsing history and must make all electronic equipment available to police upon request. Additionally, Thomas is required to register his details with the police within three days, and these details will be kept on the Sex Offenders Register for the same period of seven years.

As part of the sentencing, Thomas was also ordered to pay costs amounting to £200. The court highlighted that Thomas had suffered a significant fall from grace, having previously been a respected figure in Welsh politics. His arrest and subsequent conviction have led to his resignation from both Plaid Cymru and his role as a Welsh Assembly member. The case has garnered considerable attention, given the serious nature of the offences and the potential risk posed to children.

Thomas, who is a father of two and a former librarian, served as the MP for Ceredigion from 2000 to 2005. He was also a contender for the leadership of Plaid Cymru but withdrew from the race before Leanne Wood was elected. Following his arrest in July, he stepped down from his political roles and has since been under close scrutiny by law enforcement authorities. The case continues to serve as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and the ongoing efforts to combat child exploitation and abuse.