Man sentenced for historic sexual offences

A 38-year-old man has been sentenced for sexually assaulting a young child 12 years ago.

Shannon Leigh Newth was today sentenced to 16 years in prison and given a lifetime restraining order. 

The abuse took place in 2011 when the child was just seven years old, however the investigation started in 2023 when the victim reported the abuse following a Facebook post that she had seen on our social media channels which highlighted a similar case.

Investigating officer Detective Georgia Davies said:

This is a case where the victim didn’t feel comfortable disclosing the offences to anyone until several years later.

“I want to thank the victim in this case for their bravery and strength in coming forward and speaking to us and their commitment throughout the course of the investigation. 

“The offences were a dreadful ordeal for a young child to have to go through when they should have been free to enjoy their childhood.  By speaking out, even after so many years, they have made sure that Newth is behind bars where he can’t hurt anyone else.

“I hope that anyone out there who thinks we won’t take their report seriously because years have passed know that they can still speak to us.  I would encourage anyone who has been a victim of sexual assault, or knows someone who has, to come forward and speak to use.  We will listen to you, and we will investigate."

For advice about sexual offences, please visit https://www.south-wales.police.uk/ro/report/rsa/alpha-v1/advice/rape-sexual-assault-and-other-sexual-offences/