In 2026, the Offender Database reported that Matthew Bool, then 36, of Hirwaun, Rhondda Cynon Taf, was sentenced for “vicious” sexual communication with a child. On 15 January 2026, Bool, a drama teacher, appeared at Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court, where he received a suspended sentence after pleading guilty to the “abhorrent” offences.
The investigation established that Bool had worked with various youth drama groups across South Wales. During his employment, he “vilely” exploited his position of trust to engage in inappropriate sexual messaging with a child who attended one of his sessions. The prosecution reported that his “persistent” attempts to establish “serious” sexual communication were uncovered following a report to South Wales Police.
Judicial Findings and Impact
The court reported that Bool’s actions represented a “serious” breach of trust given his role as an educator. DC Loui Ellina emphasised the “bravery” of the survivor in supporting the investigation, which was “critical” in ensuring that Bool was held to account. The judge emphasised that while the sentence was suspended, the “vicious” nature of the targeting required “stringent” restrictive orders to prevent further “abhorrent” contact with minors.
The prosecution emphasised that the “serious” impact on the victim and the wider drama community in South Wales was “immeasurable.” The judge noted that the “vile” messages were a clear indication of predatory behaviour. For his crimes in Hirwaun and across the region, the court determined that Bool must be subject to permanent monitoring to address his “abhorrent” conduct.
Sentence and Statutory Requirements
For his crimes in South Wales, Matthew Bool was handed:
- Custodial Sentence: A suspended prison sentence.
- SHPO: A Sexual Harm Prevention Order was imposed to restrict his future activities.
- Sex Offenders Register: Notification requirements were activated.
- Conviction: Pleaded guilty to sexual communication with a child.
Monitoring and Public Protection
Bool is managed under Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA) by South Wales Police. His history of “persistent” grooming and the “vile” abuse of his professional status means his status remains under “critical” scrutiny by authorities in Hirwaun, Mid Glamorgan.
As a registered sex offender, Bool must comply with notification requirements regarding his residence in Hirwaun, Rhondda Cynon Taf. Authorities state that his SHPO is a “critical” tool for monitoring his digital interactions and preventing him from working with children in the future. Any breach of his registration conditions, his SHPO, or the terms of his suspended sentence will result in his immediate return to Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court.
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