Predator groomed victims with gifts

A SEXUAL predator groomed three young boys and bought them gifts before abusing them, a court has heard.

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A judge said it was clear Joshua Jones, pictured, had a sexual interest in prepubescent boys and he was a dangerous offender who needed to be subject to an extended sentence to protect the public.

Swansea Crown Court heard the offending took place in the Port Talbot area and involved three separate victims, the youngest being just five. The offending happened prior to 2020.

The court heard statements which set out the devastating impact the abuse had on the children. One boy had gone from being a happy and carefree child to one who no longer laughed and how it was like "all the colour" and joy had been taken out of his life.