Crime

Child sexual crime in Pembrokeshire: Perception vs. reality

Published

11 months ago

March 15, 2025

IN RECENT years, concerns have grown among Pembrokeshire residents regarding the perceived high number of child sexual offences in the area. High-profile cases and anecdotal evidence have contributed to speculation that the Dyfed-Powys region, particularly Pembrokeshire, experiences these crimes at a higher rate than other parts of the UK. But do the statistics support this perception?

***Protestors outside the house of an offender in Milford Haven in 2024 (Image: Herald)***

National overview

The Crime Survey for England and Wales (CSEW) for the year ending March 2022 estimated that 2.3% of adults aged 16 years and over had experienced sexual assault (including attempts) in the previous year. Police in England and Wales recorded 193,566 sexual offences, the highest level on record. Among these, 103,055 identifiable child sexual abuse (CSA) offences were reported.

Key findings include:

Gender Dynamics: 82% of offenders were male, while 79% of victims were female.
Offender Age: 52% of young perpetrators (aged 10 to 17) abused other children, with 14 being the most common age.

***Over 100,00 identifiable child sexual abuse (CSA) offences are reported in the UK annually***

How do Dyfed-Powys figures compare nationally?

Statistical analysis of CSA cases in Dyfed-Powys presents a complex picture. While any number of such crimes is concerning, data does not indicate that the area is significantly worse than the rest of the country.

In the year leading up to March 2023:

Dyfed-Powys Police recorded 192 crimes related to child sexual abuse images—the lowest among Wales’ four police forces.
When adjusted for population, Dyfed-Powys had 37 offences per 100,000 residents, the lowest rate in Wales. In comparison:
- South Wales Police recorded 74 per 100,000.
- North Wales Police recorded 76 per 100,000.
- Gwent Police recorded 84 per 100,000, the highest in Wales.

Between 2018 and 2023, Dyfed-Powys recorded 13 cases where sexual offences led to the sentencing or cautioning of an under-18, showing a marginal increase. Over six years, police recorded six allegations of rape and 61 allegations of sexual assault against children under 10, lower than North Wales, which recorded 20 rapes and 33 sexual assaults for the same age group.

Despite these figures, Dyfed-Powys Police have expressed concerns about a rise in online child exploitation. In 2018, for example, an estimated 55-58% of rape cases in the region involved victims under 18, demonstrating the significance of CSA within overall sexual crime.

The Pembrokeshire picture

Pembrokeshire has been a focal point for CSA cases within Dyfed-Powys.

Between September 2022 and September 2023, Pembrokeshire recorded the second-highest number of reported sexual offences in Dyfed-Powys, accounting for almost a quarter of all cases in the region. Several high-profile cases have reinforced public concerns, including the jailing of Paul Chesher (Milford Haven) and ex-mayor Terry Judkins (Pembroke Dock).

Additionally, historical abuse remains a significant factor. The December 2024 review into Caldey Abbey on Caldey Island revealed extensive historical CSA by members of the monastic community, contributing to long-term concerns about safeguarding failures.

***Police at the home of a man accused of sexual crimes against a baby in Burton, Pembrokeshire during a protest in January 2025 (Image: Herald)***

Why Wales records higher CSA rates

While Pembrokeshire’s CSA rates are concerning, it is important to consider broader factors influencing these statistics across Wales:

Rural policing challenges: Dyfed-Powys covers a vast rural area, making detection and prevention harder than in urban regions.
Improved reporting and safeguarding: Higher CSA reports may result from stronger safeguarding policies and greater awareness rather than increased offending.
Historical cases coming to light: Reviews of past offences, such as the Caldey Island scandal, have increased overall CSA statistics in recent years.
Variability in support services: Limited access to specialist victim support in rural Wales may delay investigations and reporting.

Notably, in 2022, Dyfed-Powys had one of the highest rates of child sexual exploitation per capita in Wales, highlighting ongoing concerns.

Reporting and underreporting

CSA is frequently underreported due to stigma, fear, and the relationship between victim and perpetrator. This underreporting can create discrepancies between actual prevalence and recorded cases.

Are offenders being moved to Pembrokeshire?

A common local concern is that convicted sex offenders are being relocated to Pembrokeshire. However, there is no official evidence to support this claim.

As of March 2022:

587 convicted sex offenders were managed under Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA) in Dyfed-Powys.
This number has increased from 514 in 2020 to 587 in 2022.
Dyfed-Powys recorded 126 sex offenders per 100,000 people, in line with the national average.
Unlike other forces, Dyfed-Powys Police have rejected all applications from offenders seeking removal from the sex offenders register.

While the increasing number of registered offenders is concerning, the rise likely reflects improved detection and reporting rather than a deliberate relocation policy.

Protests highlining the issue in Pembrokeshire

***Some sex offenders are arrested following investigations led by ‘paedophile hunters’***

In Pembrokeshire, public protests against the presence of sex offenders in local communities have been notable, often amplified through social media and press coverage. These demonstrations have played a significant role in shaping public perception regarding the prevalence of child sex offenders in the area.

Notable protests in Pembrokeshire

Milford Haven protest (December 2024): Approximately 70 residents gathered in Wentworth Close, Milford Haven, protesting the bail release of Jamie Hughes, who had pleaded guilty to possessing over 400 Category A child abuse images—the most severe classification. The protest led to a substantial police presence, including armed response units, to maintain order.
Burton demonstration (January 2025): Around 40 individuals assembled outside a residential address in Burton, objecting to the bail granted to a man accused of abusing a baby. The peaceful protest highlighted community concerns over the suspect’s presence in their vicinity.
Hubberston incident (December 2024): A large protest occurred in Hubberston, where residents expressed outrage over a man released on bail after pleading guilty to possessing child abuse images. The situation escalated to the point where police had to remove the individual from his residence for his safety.

Influence of media and social platforms

***Police at the protest involving a sex offender in Haverfordwest (Image: Herald)***

These protests have been extensively covered by local and regional media outlets. Social media has further amplified these events, with live broadcasts and widespread sharing increasing their visibility. This extensive coverage contributes to heightened public awareness and concern, potentially leading to the perception that child sex offenders are more prevalent in Pembrokeshire than statistics alone might suggest.

Research indicates that media portrayals can significantly influence public perceptions of crime, often leading to misconceptions about the frequency and nature of offences. For instance, sensationalized reporting can create a perception gap, where the public believes crime rates are higher than official statistics indicate.

In Pembrokeshire, the combination of high-profile protests, extensive media coverage, and the viral nature of social media content has likely contributed to a heightened perception of the prevalence of child sex offenders in the community. While community vigilance is crucial, it’s essential to balance public concern with factual data to avoid unnecessary fear and ensure informed discussions on public safety.

Conclusion

There is no conclusive evidence that Pembrokeshire experiences higher CSA rates than other parts of the UK. However, the county has seen significant cases, contributing to local fears. High-profile convictions, historical abuse revelations, and an increasing number of registered sex offenders have fueled public concern.

Authorities continue to strengthen policies such as Operation Soteria Bluestone, aimed at improving investigations. Police anticipate further rises in online CSA cases, emphasizing the need for ongoing vigilance. With public concern still high, transparency and continuous crime analysis will remain essential to safeguarding children and addressing community fears.

Crime

Teacher discharged as police step back from Milford Haven school after assault

Published

6 hours ago

February 5, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Teenager remains in custody as school closes and patrols increased to reassure community

POLICE have confirmed they are no longer stationed at Milford Haven School after a teacher was assaulted by a pupil on Thursday afternoon (Feb 5), as the injured member of staff has now been discharged from hospital.

In a joint statement issued by Dyfed-Powys Police, Pembrokeshire County Council and Hywel Dda University Health Board, Superintendent Chris Neve said swift action had been taken to protect pupils and staff.

He said: “Police are no longer in attendance at Milford Haven Comprehensive School, following a report of the assault of a teacher at approx. 3.20pm this afternoon.

“I would like to reassure parents, and the wider community, that swift action was taken to both safeguard pupils and teachers, and to trace the suspect as soon as this report was received.

“The teacher has now been discharged from hospital and is being supported by specialist officers. All pupils at the location were safe, and all returned home unharmed. A 15-year-old boy has been arrested and remains in police custody as enquiries continue.

“You will see a higher than usual police presence in the area over the coming days – these will be dedicated patrols to provide further reassurance.”

The injured teacher was earlier taken to hospital by road ambulance.

An immediate lockdown was put in place at the school while emergency services responded. Most pupils had already left for the day, but those still on site were secured inside classrooms and offices as a precaution.

School closed on Friday

Council leader Cllr Jon Harvey said the school would be closed to pupils on Friday to allow support and safety measures to continue.

He said: “We would like to thank staff and pupils at Milford Haven School for implementing a swift and effective lockdown in response to this incident.

“While the school will be closed to pupils tomorrow, if there are any learners who require additional support they are welcome to attend and there will also be support for staff on site.

“We’d like to reassure learners and parents, along with the wider community, that all measures to ensure safety are being taken.”

The health board added that anyone needing urgent mental health support can call NHS 111 and press option 2 for 24-hour assistance.

National spotlight

The incident has drawn national media attention.

BBC News broadcast live from the school gates during its Ten O’Clock News bulletin, while ITV News and several national titles also covered developments.

Journalists from a number of UK outlets, including The Sun, contacted The Herald as events unfolded, with several Welsh and national publishers using photographs first taken by Herald reporters.

Residents said the scale of coverage was unprecedented for the normally quiet port town.

Police enquiries are continuing.

Photo caption:

Police outside Milford Haven School following Thursday’s incident (Pics: Herald).

Crime

Teacher assaulted by pupil with weapon at Milford Haven school

Published

12 hours ago

February 5, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Teenager arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after lockdown triggered

A TEACHER was assaulted by a pupil brandishing a weapon at Milford Haven School on Tuesday afternoon (Feb 4), triggering an emergency lockdown and a major police response.

Officers from Dyfed-Powys Police were called to the school at around 3:20pm following reports that a member of staff had been attacked.

A lockdown was immediately implemented, with doors secured and pupils and staff told to remain inside classrooms and offices while the situation was dealt with.

Most pupils had already left at the end of the school day, but some remained on site for after-school activities.

Police confirmed that the injured teacher’s wounds are not believed to be stab injuries and they are currently receiving medical treatment.

Superintendent Chris Neve said: “We can confirm police are at Milford Haven Comprehensive School, following a report of the assault of a teacher by a pupil brandishing a weapon at the school at approx. 3.20pm.

“The teacher’s injury is not a stab injury. A lock down was implemented but has now been lifted. The teacher is receiving medical treatment for their injuries.

“All pupils at the location are safe, and most have gone home. Officers remain at the school.

“A 15-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of attempt murder and is in police custody.”

Parents told The Herald they were alerted to the lockdown shortly after 3:00pm via messages and social media, with some describing staff and pupils being kept inside rooms for safety as a precaution.

The lockdown has since been lifted, but officers remain at the scene while enquiries continue.

There have been no reports of any injuries to pupils.

The Herald has also contacted Pembrokeshire County Council for further comment.

Photo caption: Police vehicles outside Ysgol Aberdaugleddau Milford Haven School following Tuesday afternoon’s incident (Pics: Herald).

Crime

Teacher injured and teenager arrested for attempted murder at Milford Haven School

Published

12 hours ago

February 5, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Lockdown triggered as pupil allegedly attacks staff member with weapon – boy, 15, held on suspicion of attempted murder

A TEACHER was injured and a 15-year-old boy arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after an assault involving a weapon at Milford Haven School on Thursday afternoon (Feb 5).

Police were called to the school at around 3:20pm following reports that a pupil had assaulted a member of staff while brandishing a weapon on the premises.

An immediate lockdown was put in place across the campus, with doors secured and pupils and staff told to remain inside classrooms and offices while emergency services dealt with the situation.

Most pupils had already gone home at the end of the school day, but a number were still on site for after-school clubs and activities.

Several marked vehicles from Dyfed-Powys Police attended and officers remained at the scene into the evening while enquiries continued.

Police confirmed the injured teacher’s wounds are not believed to be stab injuries and that they are receiving medical treatment.

“The teacher’s injury is not a stab injury. A lockdown was implemented but has now been lifted. The teacher is receiving medical treatment for their injuries.

“All pupils at the location are safe, and most have gone home. Officers remain at the school.

“A 15-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and is currently in police custody.”

Parents told The Herald they were alerted shortly after 3:00pm through school messages and social media. Some described staff and pupils being kept inside rooms as a precautionary safety measure.

Several parents said communication from the school was clear and timely, helping to reassure families while procedures were in place.

In a further statement, police added: “Police attended an incident at Milford Haven Comprehensive School today at 3:20pm, following a report of the assault of a teacher by a pupil at the school. A lock down was implemented but has now been lifted. All pupils at the location are safe, and most have left the school. Police officers remain at the site. Any planned after-school events have been cancelled this evening.”

A Welsh Ambulance Service spokesperson said: “We were called today (Thursday, 5 February) shortly after 3.20pm to a medical emergency at Milford Haven Comprehensive School.

“We sent one Advanced Paramedic Practitioner to the scene, and one patient was transported to hospital.”

There have been no reports of injuries to pupils.

The Herald has contacted Pembrokeshire County Council for further comment.

This is a developing story.

Photo caption: Police vehicles outside Ysgol Aberdaugleddau Milford Haven School following Thursday afternoon’s incident (Pics: Herald).

School already under special measures

Inspectors identified concerns including standards, leadership and the pace of improvement, with the school and the council required to implement an urgent action plan and accept additional oversight.

At the time, Pembrokeshire County Council said it was working closely with leaders to strengthen support for pupils and staff and drive improvements across the site.

There is no indication that Thursday’s assault is directly connected to the inspection outcome. However, the incident is likely to heighten focus on safeguarding, behaviour management and the level of support available within the school community.

Lockdowns and precautionary responses rare but not unprecedented

SERIOUS incidents requiring lockdown procedures in Pembrokeshire and neighbouring counties remain uncommon, but schools across west Wales have faced a small number of precautionary responses in recent years.

Most have involved reports of suspicious behaviour, fights or concerns about potential weapons, with schools acting quickly to secure buildings while police assess the risk.

Education leaders say lockdowns are now standard safeguarding practice and are designed to protect pupils and staff rather than indicate confirmed danger.

In several recent cases locally, schools have temporarily restricted movement or kept pupils indoors following reports made to staff, with police later confirming there was no ongoing threat.

Headteachers are increasingly trained to use “lockdown” or “stay put” procedures in the same way as fire drills — as a precaution while facts are established.

Teaching unions and councils have previously stressed that serious violence inside schools is still extremely rare, but say clear procedures help prevent panic and ensure pupils remain safe.

Police also routinely work with schools on prevention, including liaison officers, safeguarding talks and education around weapons and youth violence.

Thursday’s incident at Milford Haven is therefore likely to be treated as an isolated criminal matter rather than a wider threat to other schools.

However, it will inevitably prompt renewed discussion around behaviour, support services and safety measures for staff and pupils across the region.