Two Men Face Charges for Historic Child Exploitation

Two men are facing charges for historical child sexual exploitation at a former Wales children’s center, involving 45 offenses and 16 alleged victims.

The offences

The alleged sexual and physical offences occurred between the 1970s and 1990s at the Coed Glas Assessment Centre in Abergavenny.

Angus Riddell, 69, of Cwmbach, Rhondda Cynon Taf, has been charged with 38 offences, including:

three counts of indecent assault on a girl under the age of 16
one count of attempted indecent assault on a girl under the age of 16.
14 counts of indecent assault on a boy under the age of 14
20 counts of assault, ill-treatment, neglect, abandoning a child, or causing a young person unnecessary suffering or injury.

Robin Griffiths, 65, from Ebbw Vale in Blaenau Gwent, has also been charged with seven counts of indecent assault on a boy under the age of 14.

The arrest and sentencing:

Both men were arrested on Friday, June 20, and have since been granted bail.

They are scheduled to appear before Newport Magistrates’ Court on July 3.

These arrests are a result of Operation Spinney, an ongoing investigation into reports of sexual and physical abuse at the former Coed Glas Assessment Centre.

The centre, which closed in 1995, was previously managed by the former Gwent County Council.

Andrew Tuck: Detective Chief Superintendent of Gwent Police

Gwent Police’s Detective Chief Superintendent, Andrew Tuck commented on the charges, stating that a team of detectives has been collaborating closely with the Crown Prosecution Service and local authorities.

This partnership has been part of a long-term investigation into historical allegations of sexual offenses at the former children’s home in Abergavenny, leading to two men being charged with multiple sexual offenses against children.

Tuck affirmed the police’s commitment to achieving justice for the victims in this case and emphasized the ongoing support provided to them alongside specialist agencies.

“We would ask for people to respect the judicial process and avoid online speculation on this case. This is to ensure the integrity of the investigation and court proceedings.

“We take all reports of child exploitation seriously and would urge anyone who has suffered abuse or has concerns about someone who may be suffering to come forward and speak to the police.

“We will listen to you and investigate all offences and also ensure you have access to any help or support you need.”

Chief Crown Prosecutor of the Crown Prosecution Service:

Hannah von Dadelszen, Chief Crown Prosecutor of the Crown Prosecution Service, confirmed that Gwent Police submitted a comprehensive evidence file, leading the CPS to authorize charges against two defendants for multiple child sexual offenses.

This decision came from the Organised Child Sexual Abuse Unit, a team of specialized prosecutors dedicated to handling such complex and sensitive cases.

“The Crown Prosecution Service reminds all concerned that criminal proceedings against these defendants are now active and that they have a right to a fair trial.

“It is extremely important that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.”

For more information and support agencies available, please visit Advice about child abuse | Gwent Police.

NHS 111 offers 24/7, free emergency mental health care for non-life-threatening emergencies. Select option 2 from the 24/7 helpline, available from mobile or landlines, even with no credit left. More information can be found here – Mental Health Crisis – Aneurin Bevan University Health Board.

Frequently asked questions:

Types of Institutional Abuse

Unfortunately abuse of this type can occur when people in power take advantage of vulnerable individuals such as children or people with special needs. This can happen in the following types of settings:

Schools
Religious settings
Sports teams
After school clubs
Scouts/Girl Guides
Care homes
Hospitals

You may be entitled to claim if you suffered physical, sexual or psychological abuse.

How do I make a claim?

This area of the law is highly specialised, and it is important to have a solicitor who has experience pursuing claims for compensation for historic sexual and physical abuse and assault.

Whilst these claims are personal injury claims, there are many aspects that differ from general personal injury claims. At AbuseClaims.co.uk, our team of legal experts are trained in dealing with these types of cases and will be able to offer seasoned advice for a successful outcome.

You can contact us for a free no-obligation chat. We will advise you whether you are eligible to make a claim and the likely level of damages.

If you decide to pursue the claim we will do all the work for you, keeping you informed at every stage.

How much compensation will I get?

Each claim is different. We will assess your claim and give you an idea at the outset of the likely compensation you can expect to receive.

A civil claim for sexual or physical abuse can include the following types of compensation:

General damages: An award of money for the abuse/assaults themselves and for the pain, suffering and any psychological effects.
Special damages: An award for any specific financial losses we can prove, such as loss of earnings or the costs of any treatment or counselling.
Aggravated damages: An additional award of money in certain cases where the court considers that there has been additional distress caused by the manner in which the abuse occurred.

Who can bring about a claim?

The victim of the negligence can bring about a claim in their own right. However, it is often sadly the case that the victim is either unable to bring about a claim or has sadly passed away.

In such circumstances, a claim can be brought on their behalf either by an appropriate person or a friend if the victim is still with us. If the victim has passed away it can be brought by the executor of the estate or a surviving dependent if the victim.

Oakwood solicitors’ specialist team will be able to discuss whether you have a right to bring about a claim – so if you or a loved one have been affected, do not hesitate to contact them.