Gwent's First Cyberflashing Conviction Leads to Jailing

Ryan Thomas, 33, from Abercarn, has been jailed for 13 months. He is the first person in Gwent to be convicted of a cyberflashing offence.

Thomas was convicted under the Online Safety Act. Cyberflashing became an offence in England and Wales on 31 January 2024.

He was on bail after being charged with sexually assaulting a teenage girl. During this time, he sent a video of his genitals to a woman.

Thomas was found guilty of both offences at Newport Crown Court on Wednesday 1 April. He was sentenced to x at Cardiff Crown Court on Wednesday 15 April.

Police Statement

Detective Superintendent Michelle Chaplin commented on the sentencing.

"Ryan Thomas is a dangerous, sexual predator who gains sexual gratification by causing alarm and distress to others," she stated. "Cyberflashing is a serious crime which leaves a lasting impact on victims. It is not and should not be dismissed as ‘banter’ or a thoughtless joke."

She added: "The recent Angiolini inquiry suggests that there is a strong link between these types of offences and a potential escalation toward serious sexual/violent offences and so we would encourage anyone who has been a victim of this crime to come forward."

"I hope today’s sentencing sends a clear message that cyberflashing is a serious offence and that perpetrators cannot hide behind a screen."

Reporting Cyberflashing

Ryan Thomas was convicted of sexual assault against a female child (aged 14) and cyberflashing on Wednesday 1 April.

If you or someone you know has received an unsolicited explicit image or video, you can report it by calling 101, by sending a direct message on social media or via our website.

OFFICIAL SOURCE VERIFICATION: This article is based on an official press release issued by a Police Force. Document: 16/04£First person convicted of cyberflashing in Gwent sentenced Source Link https://www.gwent.police.uk/news/gwent/news/news/2026/april/first-person-convicted-of-cyberflashing-in-gwent-sentenced/

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