Lewis Edwards: Paedophile who used Snapchat to groom more than 200 girls admits further charges

A convicted paedophile who used Snapchat to groom more than 200 girls has pleaded guilty to further charges.

Former police officer Lewis Edwards, 24, appeared via video link from HMP Parkhurst at Merthyr Tydfil Magistrates Court on Thursday.

Last year, Edwards was sentenced to life in prison after he admitted more than 100 sexual offences against children.

The former South Wales Police officer is serving a minimum of 12 years after losing an appeal to the sentence in May.

After his sentencing last year, Assistant Chief Constable Danny Richards said there was "no place" in South Wales Police for "anyone who abuses the personal responsibility they hold as a police officer".

On Thursday, Edwards pleaded guilty to perverting the course of justice between 9 February 2023 and 3 August 2023 by concealing devices amid the investigation into his possession of indecent photographs.

His mother, Rebekah Edwards, 47, also pleaded guilty to perverting the course of justice.

A not guilty verdict was given for his father, Mark Edwards, 51, after he entered a not guilty plea and the prosecution presented no evidence.

Lewis Edwards pleaded guilty to possession of a category A indecent image of a child - the most serious category.

He also pleaded guilty to possession of a category B image and two category C images.

He remains in prison where he will continue to serve a life sentence for the offences of which he was previously convicted.

Mrs Edwards was released on bail, with the condition that she must live and sleep at her home address in Bridgend.

She was warned that due to the seriousness of the offence she would face "an immediate custodial sentence".

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Recorder of Cardiff Tracey Lloyd-Clarke set the sentencing date for 22 November.

Children and young people can contact Childline with any concerns on 0800 1111.

Adults worried about a child's safety can get in touch with the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 or by emailing help@nspcc.org.uk.