A professional showjumper and a female horse rider are on trial accused of sexually abusing a teenage girl at a Welsh riding school, with prosecutors alleging they formed a “pact of silence” to conceal their actions. Guy Simmonds, 37, and Lauren Jarvis, 26, appeared at Cardiff Crown Court charged with targeting the youngster despite knowing she was under 16.
The court heard that Simmonds, who ran a riding school offering “showjumping horse production and sales, coaching and schooling” in the village of Undy, Monmouthshire, allegedly groomed the victim before subjecting her to repeated sexual abuse. Prosecutor James Hartson told jurors there was a “clear element of grooming behaviour” from the equestrian boss, who called himself “daddy” in messages to the teenager.
Mr Hartson said: “At all times he knew how old she was and so did Jarvis. The victim told him herself in one of the very first messages she sent him.” He added: “The defendants didn’t care about her age when they were planning and engaging in a so-called threesome with the victim. They also knew what they did was wrong and they agreed a pact of silence when they got wind she had started to talk about it.”
Cardiff Crown Court heard that Simmonds allegedly took advantage of his position at the riding school to abuse the girl in a horsebox whilst they were alone at the stables. Jurors were told this occurred regularly, happening “every couple of days” when Simmonds’ girlfriend was away from the premises.
The prosecution outlined how in January 2024, Simmonds contacted fellow rider Jarvis to arrange a threesome at her home. Messages presented to the court showed Simmonds asking when he should “pop over” and expressing concern about not wanting to “turn up at the same time that her mum drops her off.”
When the youngster texted Simmonds asking what she would be expected to do during the encounter, he allegedly replied: “You will both do what daddy says.” The court heard this response demonstrated the controlling nature of the relationship and Simmonds’ awareness of the victim’s age and vulnerability.
Following the incident, evidence showed the defendants attempted to cover their tracks. Simmonds messaged Jarvis saying: “Hey, I have a feeling that [name of alleged victim] has said about us. If anyone asks for sake of both of us nothing ever happened that night xx.”
Jarvis allegedly responded: “Hey, who’s she told? Oh god has she really, what’s she trying to do, make our lives hell? Of course I will xx.”
The court heard that the alleged abuse came to light when the victim confided in her father about what had happened. He immediately reported the matter to police, triggering an investigation into both defendants.
During police interviews, Simmonds denied having any form of sexual contact with the victim. He claimed that any messages referencing a threesome were merely “banter and a wind up” rather than evidence of actual criminal activity.
The prosecution argued that both defendants were fully aware of the victim’s age throughout their interactions with her. Mr Hartson emphasised that Simmonds had “no doubt at all” about how old the girl was, having been told directly by the victim in their early message exchanges.
The case has raised serious concerns about safeguarding in equestrian settings, where young people often spend considerable time with adult instructors and riders. The close-knit nature of riding communities and the trust placed in instructors creates particular vulnerabilities that require robust protection measures.
Cardiff Crown Court heard that Simmonds operated his equestrian business from the village of Undy, which lies close to the Welsh-English border near Magor. The riding school advertised professional services including showjumping training and horse sales, attracting young riders keen to develop their skills.
The trial continues, with both defendants denying all charges. The jury will hear further evidence about the alleged grooming behaviour and the circumstances surrounding the reported incidents at the stables.
Legal experts note that cases involving alleged sexual abuse in sporting contexts often involve complex power dynamics, where young athletes may feel pressured by authority figures. The prosecution’s reference to “grooming behaviour” suggests they will argue that Simmonds used his position and expertise to manipulate the victim.
The case also highlights the importance of digital evidence in modern criminal proceedings, with text messages between the defendants forming a crucial part of the prosecution’s case. The alleged “pact of silence” messages could prove particularly significant if the jury accepts them as evidence of consciousness of guilt.
Both defendants remain on bail as the trial proceeds. The court has imposed reporting restrictions to protect the identity of the alleged victim, who cannot be named for legal reasons.
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