Kidderminster paedophile locked up for 21 years for serial offences against a child

Jordan Richards, aged 35, had originally denied the offences but changed his plea on the second day of his trial at Swansea Crown Court.

The court had heard that the abuse, including 31 counts of rape and the production of more than 600 indecent images of the survivor, occurred in the Ammanford area between 2012 and 2016.

Richards was jailed last Friday (August 21) for a total of 21 years for offences including three sexual assaults on a child under 15 years old, 31 counts of rape of the victim, engaging in sexual activity with a child, and producing more than 600 indecent images of children.

The judge described Richards’s offending as “cruel and isolating”.

He said the way that the indecent images had been produced underlined the pleasure Richards took in “his lustful and filthy attitude towards the survivor”.

He recognised the “profound and lasting effect it’s had on them and their family” before passing his sentence.

Richards was given an extended custodial sentence of 25 years, consisting of 21 years in prison and an extended licence period of four years. He was also made subject of an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order and an indefinite restraining order against the victim, and must make notifications for life.

Detective Sergeant Carl Pocock, of Dyfed-Powys Police, said: “I’d like to take the opportunity to highlight the bravery of the survivor of this abuse. Richards subjected them to abhorrent sexual abuse through fear and control.

“It takes immense courage to overcome that and come forward to give evidence. It’s thanks to their resilience through the investigation that Jordan Richards will spend a significant amount of time in prison. I truly hope that this result gives them a sense of justice and peace and enables them to move forward with their life.

“I’d also like to thank the investigating officer, DC Morgan, and all specialist staff at our Digital Forensic Unit. Their efforts in securing and presenting the key evidence in this case undoubtedly led to the eventual guilty plea.

“I hope this conviction encourages other survivors, who have yet to come forward, that justice can be served despite the time that may have passed. Our specialist officers will work alongside independent sexual violence advisors from New Pathways to compassionately support you through the process."

The survivor of the case welcomed the sentencing of Richards.

They said: “I would like to say that I am pleased with the outcome of today’s sentencing. The investigation has been long and has without doubt has been very heavy on myself. I want to thank Dyfed-Powys Police for all the time, dedication and support they have provided me throughout the process and importantly making me feel safe.

"I would also like to give extra thanks and show my appreciation to Detective Constable Phil Morgan who has been my case worker and has shown determination and hard work throughout, along with Detective Sergeant Carl Pocock who has also worked so hard in securing today’s result.

"I also want to say a special thank you to New Pathways who have been there every step of the way and continue to support me afterwards.

"This case hasn’t been easy at all but I would encourage people that are yet to come forward to report it as you will be listened to and supported.

"We are not victims, we are survivors.”