**Two Men Face Court Accused of Historical Child Abuse at Welsh Care Centre**
Two men, Angus Riddell and Robin Griffiths, have appeared before Newport Magistrates Court charged with multiple counts of alleged child sexual abuse linked to the former Coed Glas Assessment Centre in Abergavenny. The charges, spanning alleged incidents that occurred between the 1970s and 1990s, concern serious accusations involving a total of 16 complainants.
Riddell, aged 70, from Cwmbach, Aberdare, faces 38 counts, including numerous charges of indecent assault and offences relating to the alleged mistreatment of children. Griffiths, 65, from Bideford in Devon, is charged with seven counts, all concerning indecent assault of boys under 14. Both men strongly deny the accusations placed against them and indicated not guilty pleas during their initial court appearance.
The proceedings form part of a lengthy police operation investigating historical reports of physical and sexual abuse. Most of the alleged offences are said to have taken place within the walls of the now-closed Coed Glas Assessment Centre, a facility previously tasked with the assessment of young people for social services. Such cases often highlight the long-term impact of institutional abuse and the challenges victims face in coming forward years after the alleged events.
During the brief hearing, Riddell wore a distinctive pink checked blazer paired with black trousers and a yellow shirt. Griffiths, meanwhile, was dressed in a navy suit and white shirt. Both defendants spoke only to provide confirmation of their personal details and to make clear their intention to contest the charges.
The exact breakdown of charges against Riddell includes three counts of indecent assault on a girl under 16, one count of attempted indecent assault on a girl under 16, fourteen counts of indecent assault on a boy under 14, and twenty counts of various offences relating to the alleged mistreatment or neglect of children. Griffiths’ charges relate solely to alleged indecent assaults on boys under 14. The sheer number of charges and complainants adds considerable weight and complexity to the unfolding legal process.
Following their appearance, both men were granted conditional bail. The next step in the legal proceedings will be a plea and trial preparation hearing scheduled to take place at Cardiff Crown Court on 1 August.
Gwent Police have urged restraint and caution from the public in commenting about the case on social media platforms. Detective Chief Superintendent Andrew Tuck stressed the importance of respecting the judicial process, stating, “We would ask for people to respect the judicial process and avoid online speculation on this case. This is to ensure the integrity of the investigation and court proceedings.” Cases of this nature, particularly those attracting widespread public interest, often prompt calls for vigilance regarding prejudicial statements and rumours before a full trial is held.
The past decade has seen an increase in historic abuse cases being brought to court across the UK, with victims more confident in reporting offences that took place many years ago. Experts point out that many survivors spend decades before coming forward, making such cases both emotionally charged and complex from a legal standpoint.
Whether the charges ultimately lead to conviction or exoneration, the legal proceedings are expected to take considerable time, with many parties involved and significant evidence likely to be reviewed.
As the case progresses through the courts, it will no doubt continue to shine a spotlight on past practices in children’s institutions across Wales, and the vital importance of safeguarding measures for vulnerable young people both then and now.
Further updates will follow as the case develops, with authorities emphasising their commitment to supporting those affected and maintaining the integrity of the ongoing investigation.