Last Updated: December 4, 2024
Natalie Arroyo (Image: South Wales Police)
A former supply teacher has been sentenced to prison after sending explicit messages and images to a 15-year-old student via Snapchat.
Natalie Arroyo, 33, who worked as a progress coach and supply teacher, initiated sexual communication with the vulnerable teenager, sending inappropriate photos and videos whilst telling him she would leave her husband for him.
Cardiff Crown Court heard that what began as “innocent” conversation quickly turned sexual, with Arroyo sending explicit images and attempting to arrange meetings for sexual activity.
“I have suffered with anxiety and suffered a breakdown,” the victim said in his statement to the court. “I trusted her… I feel betrayed and taken advantage of. I didn’t know how to stop it.”
Judge Eugene Egan rejected claims this was a “moment of madness”, stating: “You knew [the victim] was vulnerable and you exploited that… You deployed guile and cunning to manipulate that boy.”
Arroyo, of Shady Road, Gelli, Rhondda, pleaded guilty to two counts of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity and engaging in sexual communication with a child. She was sentenced to three years and four months in prison and will be subject to sex offender notification requirements and an indefinite restraining order.
