Gareth Bennett, 45, from Porthcawl, has been sentenced to three years and eight months in prison for two counts of attempting to engage in sexual communications with a child. The sentence was handed down at Cardiff Crown Court on September 1, after Bennett pleaded guilty within three days of being charged.
Police chase into the sea
Officers were called to Porthcawl seafront at 9.45pm on October 22, 2025, where they found Bennett in the sea, about 20 metres from shore. Despite the darkness and no knowledge of the strength of currents, two officers waded into the water to reach him while calling for backup.
Footage released by South Wales Police shows the officers attempting to reach Bennett as the water swirls around them. The officers brought him to shore, where he was detained and taken to hospital for checks before being transported to custody.
Bravery praised
The force said: "Despite the risk of currents and the lack of visibility, the officers bravely followed Bennett into the sea to ensure he did not come to any harm, and to ensure the judiciary process could be continued." Their bravery has been praised by police colleagues and members of the public.
Sergeant Melissa Carpenter from Bridgend Response Team said: "The bravery of these officers meant no harm came to Bennett, and the investigation was then able to be continued by CID colleagues who ensured Bennett was held accountable for his actions."
Additional offences
Bennett was also sentenced for two counts of sexually assaulting a female after a report made to police in August 2023. He sexually assaulted his victim numerous times within a two-year period. He was also given a sexual harm prevention order for 10 years.
Investigating officer Detective Constable Owain Hembury said: "Bennett willingly looked to manipulate someone he believed to be under the age of 16 for his own sexual gratification, and I’m pleased to see him held accountable for his actions despite his attempt to evade arrest."
Detective Sergeant Natasha O'Rourke said: "I would like to thank the victim in this case for coming forward and for being courageous throughout the process of this investigation. Because of her, we have been able to convict a man who is clearly a threat to young women. I can only hope that this helps her to move on from this in a more positive way and gain some form of closure."
