Dean Jenkins

Dean Jenkins, a 49-year-old resident of Ammanford in west Wales, was sentenced at Swansea Crown Court for attempting to engage in sexual communication with children. The offences occurred between November 2023 and December 31, 2023, and involved Jenkins reaching out to three girls whom he believed were not over the age of 16, with the intent of obtaining sexual gratification.

Jenkins appeared before the court charged with three counts of attempted sexual communication with a child. He pleaded guilty to all charges during a previous hearing on February 16, 2024. The case returned to Swansea Crown Court on March 23, 2024, where Judge Paul Thomas handed down the sentence.

The court imposed an eight-month prison sentence, suspended for 18 months, along with a requirement for Jenkins to complete 20 days of rehabilitation activities. Additionally, Jenkins was ordered to register as a sex offender for a period of 10 years and was made subject to a sexual harm prevention order for the same duration. These measures aim to protect the public and prevent future offending.

The prosecution detailed how Jenkins used online platforms to initiate contact with the underage girls, sending messages of a sexual nature. Although the communications were intercepted before any physical meetings could occur, the court emphasised the seriousness of the attempts to groom and exploit minors. South Wales Police investigated the matter, leading to Jenkins' arrest and subsequent charges.

This case highlights ongoing efforts by authorities in west Wales to combat online child sexual exploitation. As reported by the South Wales Guardian, Jenkins' actions were deemed a clear breach of trust and safety for vulnerable young people.