A MAN from Rhyl who sent sexually explicit messages to two people who he thought were teenage girls has been spared jail.

Andrew Foulkes, 46, of East Parade, was sentenced to 14 months’ imprisonment, suspended for two years, at Mold Crown Court today (May 30).

He had previously admitted two counts each of attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child, and of causing a child to look at an image of sexual activity.

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Prosecuting, Denise Fitzpatrick told the court that, in January 2023 in Flint, Foulkes messaged two “decoys”, who he believed to be girls aged 12 and 14 but were, in fact, members of a vigilante group.

With the decoy 12-year-old, Foulkes was told by her that she was 12, and gave his correct age at the time of 45.

He was later sent, on his request, a photo of the decoy, to which Foulkes replied by saying she was “gorgeous”.

As the conversation progressed, Foulkes told the decoy he would “love to date her”, before asking for a naked picture of her and discussing sexual activity with her.

Foulkes then sent her a photo of his own genitalia.

With the decoy 14-year-old, Foulkes also told her she was “gorgeous” after receiving a photo of what he thought was her.

He sent her sexual messages, including asking her “what she wanted to do”, telling her she was “so hot”, and saying he “would see her now, but no-one could know”.

This decoy also received a photo of Foulkes’ genitalia from him.

Foulkes was subsequently confronted by members of the vigilante group, who attended his address before contacting police.

Defending Foulkes, a man of previous good character, Rosemary Proctor said that alcohol had been a “contributing factor” in his offending, but that he is “completely abstinent now”.

He was said to suffer from mental and physical health issues, for which he is prescribed numerous medications, and is assisted by a carer.

Ms Proctor said Foulkes has “rehabilitated himself with the support of those who care for him now”.

Sentencing, Judge Rhys Rowlands told Foulkes: “Your behaviour is worrying. It’s plainly depraved. 

“You’re a grown man prepared to behave in that way towards young girls.”

Judge Rowlands also ordered Foulkes to complete 45 days’ rehabilitation activity requirements.

He was made subject to a sexual harm prevention order, and sex offenders register notification requirements, both for the period of 10 years.

Foulkes will pay a £187 statutory surcharge, while Judge Rowlands also made a deprivation order in respect of the defendant’s electronic devices which were seized by police.