The first person in Gwent to be convicted of a cyberflashing offence has been jailed for 13 months.
Ryan Thomas was convicted under the Online Safety Act after cyberflashing became an offence in England and Wales on 31 January 2024.
The 33-year-old from Abercarn was on bail after being charged with sexually assaulting a teenage girl when he sent a video of his genitals to a woman.
He was found guilty of both offences at Newport Crown Court on Wednesday 1 April.
Detective Superintendent, Michelle Chaplin said: “Ryan Thomas is a dangerous, sexual predator who gains sexual gratification by causing alarm and distress to others.
“Cyberflashing is a serious crime which leaves a lasting impact on victims. It is not and should not be dismissed as ‘banter’ or a thoughtless joke.
“The recent Angiolini inquiry suggests that there is a strong link between these types of offences and a potential escalation toward serious sexual/violent offences and so we would encourage anyone who has been a victim of this crime to come forward.
“I hope today’s sentencing sends a clear message that cyberflashing is a serious offence and that perpetrators cannot hide behind a screen.”
Ryan Thomas was convicted of sexual assault against a female child (aged 14) and cyberflashing on Wednesday 1 April. He was sentenced to x at Cardiff Crown Court on Wednesday 15 April.
If you or someone you know has received an unsolicited explicit image or video, you can report it by calling 101, by sending a direct message on social media or via our website.
