THOMAS CAREY OF BLACKWOOD SENTENCED TO 15 YEARS FOR CHILD RAPE AND SEXUAL OFFENCES IN GWENT
In a harrowing case that has shocked the community of Blackwood and the wider Gwent region, Thomas Carey, aged 61, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term of 15 years following his conviction on multiple serious charges involving the sexual abuse of children.The crimes, which spanned several years, included a series of rapes and sexual offences committed against young victims, with Carey’s actions described by the presiding judge as driven by the 'basest of instincts.' Carey, a resident of Cwmpenmaen, Blackwood, was found guilty after a comprehensive trial held at Newport Crown Court last month.
The court heard evidence that led to his conviction on five counts of rape, three counts of indecent assault on a female child, three counts of sexual assault on a female child, and a charge of inciting a child to engage in sexual activity.
His wife, Alison Carey, aged 49, was also convicted of the incitement charge, implicating her in the disturbing criminal conduct.
During the sentencing hearing, Judge Rhys Rowlands addressed Carey directly, condemning his actions and highlighting the profound betrayal of trust involved.
The judge remarked that Carey had lived a double life, projecting an image of generosity and consideration to the outside world, while secretly engaging in acts that were 'completely beyond the comprehension of normal, right-thinking people.' The judge emphasized the severity of the crimes, which had a lasting impact on the victims, some of whom were present in court to witness the sentencing.
Thomas Carey was sentenced to 12 years in prison for each of the rape charges, with all sentences to run concurrently.
For the indecent assault charges, he received two sentences of 14 months and one of eight months, which are to be served concurrently but consecutively to the rape sentences.
Similarly, for the sexual assault charges, he was given two sentences of 14 months and one of eight months, again to run concurrently with each other but sequentially after the rape and indecent assault sentences.
An additional consecutive sentence of eight months was imposed for the incitement charge, bringing the total prison time to 15 years.
As the sentences were read, Carey remained impassive, showing no visible emotion.
It was also noted that he will be required to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life, a measure that underscores the gravity of his crimes.
Judge Rowlands praised the victims for their resilience, acknowledging the dignity and fortitude they displayed in dealing with their traumatic experiences.
In a related development, Alison Carey received a six-month jail sentence, which was suspended for two years.
She was also ordered to complete 200 hours of unpaid community service, placed under a 12-month supervision order, and mandated to register as a sex offender for seven years.
The judge described her participation in the offences as 'appalling and frankly disgusting,' reflecting the serious nature of her involvement in the criminal acts alongside her husband.
This case has left a lasting scar on the community of Blackwood, serving as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and the need to protect vulnerable children from such heinous acts.
