A pensioner has been branded a 'dirty old man' by a judge after stripping off and exposing himself to members of the public on two separate occasions. Stewart Laugharne, 75, committed the acts in August last year, with one incident involving him 'thrusting his hips forward' while naked and another where he called out to draw attention to his nudity.
Court Details
Appearing at Swansea Crown Court for sentencing, Laugharne, of Dairy Park Grove, Hakin, Milford Haven, Pembrokeshire, had previously pleaded guilty to two counts of exposure. Prosecutor Sian Cutter told the court that while children were present on one occasion, it was not believed they had actually seen the pensioner undressed.
The defendant's barrister, Sarah John, described Laugharne as a 'somewhat lonely man' who is estranged from his children, has no partner, and lacks a support network. She noted he had endured a 'difficult childhood' after being adopted but had lived a law-abiding life for decades and was capable of leading 'a pro-social lifestyle'.
Judge's Remarks
Judge Paul Thomas KC responded sharply to the defense's portrayal, saying: 'I'm not surprised if he behaves like this.' He described Laugharne's actions as 'quite disgraceful' and said something had 'clearly gone awry' in his life. The judge labeled the defendant a 'dirty old man,' adding that while this may be a 'recent development,' the court was determined there would be no repeat.
Laugharne, who had a previous conviction from 1980 for an unrelated matter resulting in an absolute discharge, was sentenced to a two-year community order with a rehabilitation activity requirement. He must also register as a sex offender for the next five years. Addressing the defendant directly, Judge Thomas warned: 'Don't come back before the courts again - it will not end well for you, Mr Laugharne.'
