Paedophile with 'lust for young boys' raped two after showering them with gifts.

'Wholly Unrepentant' Abuser Sentenced to 30 Years

Brian Andrew Rhys, 53, has been sentenced to 30 years in prison for the sexual abuse of two young boys over a period of 36 years. Rhys, of Banwell Street in Morriston, Swansea, was convicted by a jury of multiple counts of indecency, assault, and rape.

The court heard how Rhys had groomed his victims, showering them with gifts before raping them. One victim stated, "I have had to carry this deep dark secret since being abused during childhood for more than 30 years. It is a heavy burden to bear and has affected my life and my mental health." His other victim said, "When I was told by my mother the defendant had been convicted I felt very happy and slept well that night. It was the best I had slept since I can remember."

Judge Paul Thomas QC described Rhys as "wholly unrepentant," stating, "Over a period of around 30 years you systematically and calculatedly sexually violated two young boys. You took steps to get each of them on their own and raped them over a long period of time." The judge further emphasized Rhys's manipulative and arrogant nature, believing he could "pull the wool over people's eyes."

Rhys's sentence includes 24 years in prison and six years on extended licence. He has also been issued a sexual harm prevention order and must sign the sex offenders register.

Detective Constable Joanne Pudner, who led the investigation, praised the victims for their bravery in coming forward. "Investigating sexual violence is a priority for South Wales Police and we are committed to investigating all reports of sexual abuse, regardless of when they occurred, in order to ensure that those who exploit the most vulnerable members of society are brought to justice."