A predatory barber in Wrexham has been sentenced to 27 months in prison for sexually assaulting a 15-year-old boy in his shop. Hristo Georgiev, aged 26, was found guilty of attempting to incite the teenager to engage in sexual activity, as well as for a separate incident of sexual assault on a male in Wrexham. The court heard that Georgiev made inappropriate advances towards two teenage boys in his barbershop, leading to his conviction.
In one instance, Georgiev sexually touched a 15-year-old boy over his clothing after asking him to close his eyes for a hairspray application. He then lured the teenager to a back room under false pretences and assaulted him again. The victim reported the incident to the authorities, triggering an investigation. Another 15-year-old boy was also subjected to Georgiev’s advances when the barber propositioned him and made suggestive comments before sexually touching him.
Prosecutor Joshua Gorst detailed how Georgiev engaged in sexually charged conversations with the victims, making them feel uncomfortable and propositioning them for sexual activity. Despite pleading guilty to three counts of sexual offences, Georgiev expressed remorse for his actions, acknowledging the shame he brought upon himself and his family. The judge labelled his behaviour as predatory and highlighted the risk he posed to young customers in his shop.
Georgiev’s defence lawyer, Maria Masselis, highlighted his remorse and work ethic but acknowledged his inability to control his actions. Judge Niclas Parry condemned Georgiev’s predatory behaviour and emphasised the bravery of the victims in coming forward to report the incidents. In sentencing, Georgiev received 24 months’ imprisonment for inciting a 15-year-old boy to engage in sexual activity and three months for each count of sexual assault on a male. A 10-year sexual harm prevention order was imposed to safeguard against further offences.
The judge’s comments underscored the severity of the case, lamenting that parents could not send their children for a simple haircut without fear of sexual abuse. The victims’ courage in coming forward was commended for potentially preventing similar incidents in the future. Georgiev’s incarceration and preventative measures aim to protect the community from his predatory behaviour, ensuring the safety of young boys in his vicinity.