Abergavenny Pair Sentenced for Teen Indecent Images Case

A couple from Abergavenny have been given suspended prison sentences after pleading guilty to making and distributing indecent images of a teenager. 📱⚖️

Michelle House (also known as Lang), 53, and Vernon Jones, 50, were arrested in 2021 after concerns were raised about messages between them discussing having sex with the victim.

Newport Crown Court heard on Monday that police seized their mobile phones and discovered category C images of a teenager in “various stages of undress” and in the shower. The images had initially been sent by House to Jones, who edited them before sending them back to her.

Jones, of Ysguborwen, Abergavenny, pleaded guilty to possession and distribution of class C indecent images. He has no similar previous convictions.

House, of St David’s Road, Abergavenny, pleaded guilty to making, possessing and distributing class C indecent images. The court heard she was of previous good character.

In mitigation, Hilary Roberts, representing House, said his client was “vulnerable” and suffering with acute anxiety and depression. It was noted she is no longer in a relationship with her co-defendant, and her life has been “shattered”.

Sol Hartley, for Jones, described the offence as “isolated and out of character” for his client, adding there is no evidence the defendant is attracted to young children.

During sentencing, Judge Daniel Williams stated: “The fact is the two of you share a warped sexual interest in young women.”

House received a 12-month prison sentence, suspended for two years, and was ordered to complete 200 hours of unpaid work and a 20-day rehabilitation activity requirement.

Jones was sentenced to 16 weeks imprisonment, suspended for 12 months, with a 30-day rehabilitation activity requirement and a £500 fine.