A former soldier has been convicted after orchestrating a fraudulent paternity test scheme using a friend's DNA in a deliberate attempt to avoid paying child maintenance. Gareth Lloyd, 59, an ex-Welsh Guard, denied fatherhood when an ex-girlfriend informed him of her pregnancy, even telling her to "get rid of it." Following the birth of a daughter in 2023, Lloyd pressured his friend, Phillip Jones, 61, also a former Welsh Guard, to provide his DNA for the official paternity test.
Investigation Unravels Deception
After the mother applied to the Child Maintenance Service naming Lloyd as the father, he initially denied knowing her and refused a DNA test. However, when a Deduction of Earnings Order was issued—requiring his employer to deduct payments directly from his salary—Lloyd requested the test. Prosecutor Harry Dickens explained that samples were taken from the mother and child, along with a man purporting to be Lloyd.
When the test returned negative, the mother challenged the results, prompting an investigation. Clinic staff shown a photo of Lloyd did not recognize him, and phone analysis revealed communications between Lloyd and Jones around the test dates. Geolocation data placed Jones' phone near the clinic in Llandaff, Cardiff, during the testing.
Guilty Pleas and Sentencing
Both men were subsequently DNA tested, with Jones' sample matching the fraudulent one. Jones admitted to taking the test to assist his friend, while Lloyd, who works in the Middle East, was arrested upon returning to the UK and offered no comment in interview. The fraud potentially cost the Child Maintenance Service and victims approximately £12,426.
Lloyd and Jones, both from Cardiff, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to defraud. In mitigation, Owen Williams stated Lloyd is "deeply remorseful and ashamed," having repaid over £10,000 and now maintaining a relationship with his daughter. Lloyd served 35 years in the military, including tours in Northern Ireland, Afghanistan, and Iraq. Cora Sorenson argued for a suspended sentence for Jones.
Judge Vanessa Francis condemned Lloyd for selfishness and dishonor, noting he disregarded his partner, child, and service record. She similarly rebuked Jones for acting "totally dishonourably" in support of his friend. Lloyd received a 12-month suspended sentence with 100 hours of unpaid work, while Jones was given a three-month suspended sentence.
