Matthew Aldridge

A Knighton man, Matthew Aldridge, aged 56, has been sentenced to life imprisonment for a prolonged campaign of sexual abuse against three young victims. The offences, spanning over 20 years, involved grooming the girls to believe his predatory actions were normal, allowing him to continue his crimes unchecked. Aldridge was found guilty of 27 counts, including multiple instances of rape and sexual assault on children under 13.

The case came to light following reports from one victim in 2016, though initial efforts were hampered by interference. A further allegation in 2019 revealed the full extent of Aldridge's depravity. Dyfed-Powys Police's Criminal Investigation Department led an extensive probe, gathering evidence from victim interviews, child services disclosures, counsellor statements, and digital device examinations. The trial at Mold Crown Court lasted three weeks, where the jury heard harrowing details of how Aldridge targeted the girls through their childhood, subjecting them to repeated abuse for his sexual gratification.

His Honour Judge Nic Parry, during sentencing on 9 November 2023, described Aldridge's behaviour as 'a systematic and vile campaign of rape and like offences', adding that there was 'no limit to the level of depravity in his sexual offending' to achieve gratification. The judge highlighted the profound trauma inflicted on the victims, with lasting effects on their lives. Aldridge showed no remorse, exacerbating the victims' distress.

• Rape of a child under 13 years (two charges)
• Attempted rape of a child under 13 years
• Sexual assault upon a child under 13 years by penetration (11 charges)
• Sexual assault of a child under 13 years (five charges)
• Sexual assault of a child aged 13-15 years
• Causing a child to engage in sexual activity (four charges)
• Indecent assault upon a child
• Indecency with a child
• Engaging in sexual activity with a child

Detective Constable Liz Evans of Dyfed-Powys Police commended the victims' bravery, noting the investigation's intensity due to the long timeframe and volume of evidence. The case underscores the impact of initiatives like Operation Soteria, aimed at improving rape and sexual offence prosecutions.