Man Convicted After CCTV Captures Upskirting Incident at Cardiff Shopping Centre

A 39-year-old man has been convicted after CCTV captured him secretly filming beneath the skirt of a young girl while she was shopping with her mother in Cardiff.

Alex Allegretto admitted using a mobile phone beneath another person's clothing for the purpose of obtaining sexual gratification. The incident happened at St David’s 2 shopping centre on the morning of 7 July, after the girl's mother noticed what was happening and contacted police.

CCTV footage played a key role in the investigation. It showed Allegretto sitting on a bench before approaching the girl and her mother from behind in the busy shopping centre. He placed his phone near the girl's legs before quickly walking away and returning towards his car.

Officers were subsequently able to trace him to his home in Maesteg, where he was arrested on suspicion of voyeurism.

The case was heard at Cardiff Magistrates' Court on 5 August, where Allegretto was sentenced following his guilty plea.

Police said the incident had continued to affect the young victim, who has reportedly become anxious about people walking behind her and feels less comfortable when out in public.

South Wales Police said the conviction should serve as a reminder that such behaviour is a serious offence and that victims should not have to tolerate this kind of intrusion.

As part of his sentence, Allegretto must be placed on the police sex offenders register for five years. He was also ordered to complete 140 hours of unpaid work, undertake rehabilitation activity and pay a £199 financial penalty.

The case highlights the importance of CCTV and public reports in helping police identify offenders, particularly when incidents occur in busy public places.

For the victim and her family, the hope is that the conclusion of the case will provide some reassurance as she works to regain confidence in everyday situations.