Last Updated: November 24, 2024
Thomas Vanstone (Image: South Wales Police)
A Cardiff man has been sentenced to six years in prison for sexually abusing a young girl, starting when she was just eight years old. Thomas Vanstone, 26, of Marlborough Road, Roath, was found guilty of multiple sexual offences against a child.
The victim courageously shared her impact statement in court: “What Thomas Vanstone did to me has ruined my life. It took years to realise what he was doing to me was wrong. I trusted him.”
Judge Paul Hopkins noted Vanstone showed “no remorse whatsoever for your appalling behaviour.”
Detective Constable Rhiannon Phillips praised the victim’s courage: “I would like to commend the bravery of the victim in coming forward to police. It has been a difficult time for everyone involved and we hope the outcome at court provides some comfort. South Wales Police takes all reports of sexual violence extremely seriously. Help and support is available for all victims of sexual violence, and we would encourage any victims; no matter how long ago the offence happened, to please come forward.”
The defendant will serve two-thirds of his sentence in custody and will be subject to indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order. ⚖️
