Julian Hobbs

Julian Hobbs, a 36-year-old man from Cathays, was sentenced at Merthyr Crown Court on 16 March 2026 following a three-day trial held at Newport Crown Court from 15 to 18 December 2025. He was found guilty of several serious sexual offences against a child, demonstrating a predatory nature that the investigating officer described as disgusting.

The offences committed by Hobbs included three counts of raping a girl under 13, two counts of an offender aged 18 or over causing a child under 13 to watch or look at an image of sexual activity, and one count of causing or inciting a girl under 13 to engage in sexual activity without penetration. These acts came to light after the victim, who was still a child at the time of reporting, bravely disclosed Hobbs's actions to a teacher at her school. This courageous report initiated the police investigation led by South Wales Police.

Despite Hobbs pleading not guilty and attempting to avoid responsibility for his actions, the jury convicted him based on the evidence presented during the trial. Investigating officer DC Geraint Strakis commended the victim's bravery, stating: “I commend the victim, who is still a child, for her bravery in reporting Hobbs’ disgusting actions. No child should have to endure this type of abuse.” He further noted: “Despite his continued attempts to avoid culpability for his actions by pleading not guilty, I’m thankful to see he has been held accountable for his predatory nature.”

Hobbs received a custodial sentence of 15 years, extended by three years on licence, totalling 18 years. The case underscores the importance of victims speaking out, as highlighted by South Wales Police in their official statement on the matter.