Horse Instructor and Woman Convicted of Child Sex Offense

Guy Simmonds, a 37-year-old horse-riding instructor and showjumper, and Lauren Jarvis, 26, have been found guilty of engaging in sexual activity with a child under the age of 16. The verdict came after a trial at Cardiff Crown Court. Simmonds was acquitted of five other counts of the same charge.

The court heard that Simmonds and Jarvis were involved in a sexual encounter with the young girl. The prosecution stated that Jarvis "participated willingly" in the incident, including sexually touching the girl. Evidence presented included text conversations between the defendants, which the prosecution argued showed "clear elements of grooming" and planning of the event, followed by an agreement to remain silent about it.

The incident took place in January 2024 at Jarvis' home. Messages read to the jury revealed Simmonds coordinating the encounter with Jarvis. In one message, Simmonds inquired about the girl's arrival time. Later messages showed Simmonds expressing concern that the girl had disclosed the incident and urging Jarvis to deny it. Jarvis responded, expressing concern and agreeing to the pact of silence.

Simmonds maintained that he had no sexual contact with the girl and that her allegations were malicious. Jarvis claimed the events did not occur, despite the girl allegedly wanting them to, and that the text messages were merely "banter." The jury found both defendants guilty on one count of engaging in sexual activity with a child. Simmonds was remanded in custody, while Jarvis was granted bail pending sentencing on September 29. The judge warned both defendants that all sentencing options were available to the court.