Chilling Attack on Teen in Caerphilly
Ryan Thomas, 33, is behind bars after forcibly kissing a 14-year-old girl in Caerphilly and sending an obscene video to another woman. The court heard how Thomas followed the teen home, hugged her, then kissed her without consent. Before this, he had approached her and a friend, offering to walk them home — an offer they declined.
Unsolicited Lewd Video Sparks Fear
The second victim received a shocking video from Thomas featuring his erect penis. He claimed it was sent by accident and denied seeking sexual gratification. The video came with a disturbing message about taking Viagra and having an erection for some time. The woman described waking up to the video as “vulgar, deeply concerning and repulsive” and revealed ongoing anxiety and fear for her safety.
Dark Past Catches Up with Thomas
Thomas, from Garn Street, Abercarn, was already a convicted sexual offender with a history of assault and exposure. Previously, he followed a female student home from her bar job, exposed himself, and fled to Ireland. He was deported from Australia for similar offences just six months before reoffending in the UK.
Victims Speak Out, Court Clamps Down
“Ryan Thomas being found guilty makes me happy and feel justice has been served,” said the teenage victim, who was anxious and scared about facing Thomas in court. “I’m relieved the investigation is over but still concerned for my safety.” The woman who received the lewd video added: “The distress I’ve experienced is profound. I haven’t slept since, withdrew from social media, and worry constantly about my safety and my child’s.”
Defence lawyer Jeffrey Jones noted Thomas had secured full-time work before being remanded in custody. But Judge Matthew Porter-Bryant slammed Thomas for an “ingrained inclination of sexual offending,” sentencing him to 13 months in prison. Thomas also faces 10-year restraining orders, a sex offender notification requirement, and a sexual harm prevention order — all spanning a decade.
