Milford Haven woman jailed over knifepoint robbery attempt at Pill Corner Stores

Jessie Thompson, aged 31, appeared at Swansea Crown Court charged with attempted robbery and possession of a bladed article following the incident at Pill Corner Stores on Pill Lane on 11 July.

“Give me all your money”

The court heard that Thompson and her accomplice, Bethan John, 25, entered the store wearing masks and brandishing a kitchen knife. One of the pair threatened the shop worker, demanding money.

The worker defended herself with a milk crate, forcing the pair to flee empty-handed. No money or items were stolen.

CCTV and community tip-off

Dyfed-Powys Police launched an investigation after a member of the public reported a bag of clothes dumped in their garden. Officers matched the clothing to CCTV footage of the suspects.

Thompson and John were later arrested and told officers they had planned to hand themselves in. They admitted discarding the knife in a hedgerow near the Mount Estate.

Sentence and police response

Thompson pleaded guilty and was sentenced to three years and four months in prison. John also admitted the offences and will be sentenced at a later date.

Detective Constable Dean Chilcott said:

“We are pleased that the seriousness of this incident has been recognised by the court, and that Thompson has been suitably sentenced for the part she played.

This shop has persistently been targeted by criminals, while the owners and workers are just trying to do their jobs in providing a service for the local community. They should never be made to feel fearful for their safety while at work.”

A shop repeatedly targeted

Pill Corner Stores has reportedly been targeted multiple times in recent months. Police said they would continue to take robust action against those responsible for violent incidents in the community.

Swansea Bay News will continue to follow developments as sentencing concludes.

Related Articles

• Ifan Charles named preferred candidate for Dyfed‑Powys Police Chief Constable
• Thousands of shoplifting cases go unsolved in South Wales and Dyfed‑Powys as charge rates remain low
• Milford Haven man jailed after e‑scooter crash reveals £15k drug stash
• Teen driver who crashed into Pembrokeshire campsite given suspended sentence

#attemptedRobbery #DyfedPowysPolice #knifeCrime #MilfordHaven #MountEstate #PillCornerStores #PillLane #possessionOfABladedArticle #retailTheft #robbery

Ifan Charles named preferred candidate for Dyfed‑Powys Police Chief Constable

The decision follows a three‑day interview process at Police Headquarters, with the final choice now set to go before the Police and Crime Panel for confirmation on 7 October.

Recruitment process concludes

PCC Dafydd Llywelyn said the selection process had been “robust and transparent,” involving key stakeholders from across the force area.

“I am pleased to announce Temporary Chief Constable Ifan Charles as my preferred candidate for the role of our Chief Constable at Dyfed‑Powys Police,” he said.

“From the outset, it was vital to select a Chief Officer with the vision, determination, and resilience needed to lead our Police Service. Ifan performed exceptionally throughout the assessment process, demonstrating strong leadership and a deep understanding of policing.”

Career in Dyfed‑Powys Police

Ifan Charles joined Dyfed‑Powys Police in 2004 and has served in a variety of roles across CID and uniformed policing in all four counties. His career has included leading firearms incidents and managing serious crimes, with a focus on supporting victims.

In 2022, he completed the Senior Police National Assessment Centre and Strategic Command Course, before being appointed Assistant Chief Constable. He became Deputy Chief Constable in July 2024 and has been acting as Temporary Chief Constable since the resignation of Dr Richard Lewis earlier this year.

Looking ahead

PCC Llywelyn said: “Ifan has an outstanding track record in tackling crime and managing community policing. I very much look forward to working with him to ensure our communities remain safe and to develop a service that is effective today and ready for the challenges of the future.”

He also thanked staff, officers and partners who supported the recruitment process.

The appointment will now be considered by the Police and Crime Panel at a confirmation hearing on 7 October 2025.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

Dyfed-Powys Police Chief announces retirement
Dr Richard Lewis steps down after leading the force through major reforms and crime reduction.

Dyfed‑Powys and South Wales Police buck national decline in coercive control charges
New figures show Welsh forces leading the way in tackling coercive and controlling behaviour.

Thousands of shoplifting cases go unsolved in South Wales and Dyfed‑Powys
Data reveals more than 20 incidents a day closed with no suspect identified across the two force areas.

Carmarthenshire police officer honoured for heroic rescue from burning car
PC Jonathan Tatam praised for bravery after pulling a man from a blazing vehicle near Cynwyl Elfed.

#ChiefConstable #DafyddLlewellyn #DyfedPowysPolice #IfanCharles #PoliceAndCrimeCommissioner #PoliceAndCrimePanel

Police seize hundreds of illegal e‑scooters across South and Mid Wales

Rising seizures in South Wales and Dyfed‑Powys

Figures obtained through Freedom of Information requests show that South Wales Police have confiscated 272 e‑scooters since 2022, while Dyfed‑Powys Police have seized 99 over the same period. Officers say the vehicles are being taken off the streets for a range of reasons — from being uninsured under the Road Traffic Act, to being used in drug offences, assaults and thefts.

In South Wales, seizures peaked at 90 in 2023, with another 81 taken in 2024 and 43 already removed in the first half of 2025. Dyfed‑Powys recorded 37 seizures in 2022/23, 19 in 2023/24, and 43 in 2024/25.

Both forces stress that the figures are not just about nuisance riding. In Swansea, three drug dealers were jailed after being stopped on an e‑scooter, while in Milford Haven a crash involving a scooter led police to uncover a £15,000 drug stash.

Collisions and safety concerns

South Wales Police also confirmed that e‑scooters were involved in five road traffic collisions between 2022 and 2024 – three in Swansea and two in Cardiff. Because private e‑scooters cannot be insured, riders involved in crashes face the same consequences as uninsured drivers, including fines, penalty points and liability for compensation.

Nationally, government figures show that 416 people were seriously injured in e‑scooter collisions in 2023. Fire services have also raised alarms over battery safety, after an e‑bike battery exploded in Port Tennant, sparking an early‑morning blaze.

Police powers and crackdowns

To tackle the problem, police have been given new powers to crush seized e‑scooters and off‑road bikes within 48 hours if they are used antisocially. South Wales Police and Crime Commissioner Emma Wools said the vehicles are often linked to organised crime and serious violence, and swift disposal sends a clear message.

In Swansea city centre, Operation Lathyrus saw officers seize 17 e‑bikes and make seven arrests in a single day, with police warning that more than 30% of bikes stopped were illegal or dangerously modified.

Debate over regulation

While enforcement has intensified, the debate over e‑scooter safety continues. A RoSPA study found that e‑scooters had a collision rate five times lower than bicycles and nine times lower than motorcycles — but most incidents occurred in areas without regulated rental schemes, suggesting that illegal private use is far riskier.

Police and trading standards have repeatedly warned parents not to buy e‑scooters as Christmas presents, reminding them that private models cannot legally be used on roads, pavements or cycle paths.

Government vows crackdown on unsafe e‑scooter use

The UK Government says a second national evaluation of the e‑scooter trials is under way, focusing on user and public safety, accessibility impacts, and how the vehicles could be integrated into the wider transport network.

A spokesperson said:

“The Government is giving the police stronger powers to stop vehicles being used disruptively, with officers no longer required to issue a warning before seizing illegally owned private e‑scooters. This will allow them to deal swiftly with dangerous e‑scooters on pavements.

“New Respect Orders will give the police and local councils powers to ban persistent offenders from certain areas where they are causing harm, and failure to comply with Respect Orders will be a criminal offence.”

Ministers argue that the measures will help police act more quickly against unsafe and antisocial use, while also ensuring that lessons from the ongoing rental trials inform any future legislation.

“Behind the numbers are real risks”

Campaigners warn that the rise in seizures reflects not only tougher enforcement but also the growing number of people using e‑scooters illegally.

A spokesperson for Personal Injury Claims UK, which compiled the national data, said:

“If an e‑scooter rider causes a collision, they face the same consequences as a car driver – including liability for personal injury compensation. The figures highlight the risks for both riders and the public.”

Related articles

• Milford Haven man jailed after e-scooter crash reveals £15k drug stash
• Three Swansea drug dealers jailed after e-scooter arrest
• Police to crush e-scooters and off-road bikes used anti-socially within 48 hours
• Police seize 17 e-bikes and make seven arrests in Swansea city centre crackdown
• RoSPA study finds e-scooters five times safer than bicycles
• E-bike battery explodes during charging, sparking early morning fire in Port Tennant
• Parents warned of pitfalls of buying e-scooters this Christmas

#DyfedPowysPolice #eBike #eScooter #eScooterSeizure #illegalEBikes #illegalEScooter #LithiumBattery #offRoadBikes #RoadTrafficAccident #RoSPA #SouthWalesPolice

Dyfed‑Powys and South Wales Police buck national decline in coercive control charges

Local forces top the table

Almost ten years after coercive and controlling behaviour (CCB) was made a criminal offence under the Serious Crime Act 2015, new analysis shows that Dyfed‑Powys Police and South Wales Police are leading the way nationally in bringing charges.

• Dyfed‑Powys Police saw the biggest rise in England and Wales, with the proportion of offences leading to a charge or summons more than doubling from 4.05% to 8.65% in the past year.
• South Wales Police recorded the second‑highest increase, climbing from 10.11% to 11.16%.

By contrast, many other forces saw their charge rates fall, with the City of London dropping to zero and Nottinghamshire and Wiltshire also recording sharp declines.

What coercive control means

Coercive control covers patterns of intimidation, isolation, financial restriction and emotional manipulation. It was recognised in law in 2015 to reflect the reality that abuse is not always physical, but can still have devastating and long‑lasting effects.

Family law specialists say the rise in charges in Wales may reflect more victims feeling able to report abuse, but also highlights the scale of the problem.

“Statistics only tell part of the story”

Kathryn McTaggart, family law solicitor and director at Woolley & Co, said:

“Clients often describe years of financial restriction, emotional manipulation, or social isolation – behaviours that don’t just end when the relationship does. They continue to shape how safe someone feels during separation, whether they can engage in mediation, and the tone of negotiations.”

She warned that while criminal prosecutions show progress in some areas, the family courts remain inconsistent. Allegations of coercive control are often raised in divorce, child contact and financial disputes, but the way courts respond can vary dramatically.

What it means for families in Wales

• In divorce cases, coercive control is increasingly cited in petitions, but survivors often feel the abuse is invisible in financial settlements.
• In child contact disputes, courts are expected to investigate allegations before making decisions, but practice varies widely.
• In financial proceedings, the law sets a high bar for conduct to affect asset division, leaving many survivors feeling the economic impact of abuse is overlooked.

Campaigners say that without consistent recognition across both criminal and family courts, survivors remain at risk of being retraumatised by the very systems meant to protect them.

Ruth Dodsworth: speaking out after coercive control conviction

ITV Wales presenter Ruth Dodsworth has become one of the most high‑profile voices raising awareness of coercive control after her ex‑husband, Jonathan Wignall, was jailed in 2021 for a near‑decade campaign of harassment and abuse.

Since then, Ruth has spoken publicly about the impact of coercive control on her life and family, using her platform to encourage survivors to seek help and to press for stronger safeguards in both the criminal justice system and the family courts.

Related articles

• Maesteg man jailed after subjecting teenager to years of coercive control
• Long prison sentence for vile Swansea man who raped and controlled women
• ‘Immature’ Aberavon man jailed following controlling and abusive behaviour

Ruth Dodsworth: Speaking out on coercive control

ITV Wales presenter Ruth Dodsworth has spoken publicly about her experiences of coercive control after her ex-husband, Jonathan Wignall, was jailed in 2021 for a near-decade-long campaign of harassment and abuse.

Since the case, Ruth has become a prominent voice in raising awareness of domestic abuse, sharing her story to encourage others to seek help and to highlight the importance of safeguarding.

• TV presenter’s ex-husband jailed after near decade-long campaign of harassment and controlling behaviour
• ITV’s Ruth Dodsworth talks about her experiences of domestic abuse in support of National Safeguarding Week

#abuse #coerciveAndControllingBehaviour #coerciveControl #criminalCourt #divorce #DyfedPowysPolice #emotionalManipulation #familyCourt #familyLaw #financialRestriction #harassment #intimidation #isolation #law #relationships #RuthDodsworth #SeriousCrimeAct #socialIsolation #SouthWalesPolice

Driver jailed after four‑year‑old girl seriously injured in Carmarthen collision

Jolanta Motiejuniene, 48, of Lesley Street, Port Talbot, was sentenced at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (26 September 2025) after being found guilty of causing serious injury by careless driving. She was also disqualified from driving for 20 months.

The incident happened on 20 February 2023 in Waun Burgess, Carmarthen, when Motiejuniene was carrying out charity collections in a Mercedes Sprinter van. Shortly after 11am, the van struck the child, who was riding a balance bike on the estate.

The girl sustained life‑threatening injuries and continues to recover more than two years later.

Family statement

In a statement, the child’s family said:

“Two years ago our lives were turned upside down due to the injuries caused to our beautiful daughter. We have witnessed and suffered trauma that no parent should go through, trauma which could have been avoided if the driver was simply looking where she was going.

We are forever grateful to the Crown Court Judge, Jury, Prosecution Barrister and Dyfed‑Powys Police for getting our daughter the justice she deserves. Our thanks also go to the NHS staff at Glangwili and Noah’s Ark hospitals, the Air Ambulance crew, our daughter’s physiotherapists and our family and friends whose love, support and care has helped us through an extremely worrying and traumatic couple of years.”

Police response

PC Lucy Peppiatt, from Dyfed‑Powys Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said:

“We welcome the sentencing of Motiejuniene, whose careless driving on that day led to the serious injury of a very young child, in an avoidable collision.

This sentence goes some way to seeing justice done, and we also hope it serves as a stark reminder to drivers of the serious consequences of driving in a careless and thoughtless manner – putting vulnerable pedestrians at risk.”

Related articles

• Motorcyclist dies after crash closes major Swansea route for more than 10 hours
• Two taken to hospital after car leaves road near Llwynhendy
• Families pay tribute after two men killed in A40 crash
• Video shows moment high‑speed Llanelli police chase ends in Felinfoel crash

#carelessDriving #Carmarthen #DyfedPowysPolice #PortTalbot #RoadTrafficAccident #SeriousCollisionInvestigationUnit #WaunBurgess

Two taken to hospital after car leaves road near Llwynhendy

Emergency response

The alarm was raised at around 8.15pm on Tuesday, 23 September, when a private vehicle left the B4304 and came to rest close to a water channel.

Crews from Carmarthen and Llanelli fire stations cut back sections of woodland to create an access route, before using a rescue sled to extricate the casualties. A specialist rescue team and wading team were also deployed.

Both casualties were handed into the care of the Welsh Ambulance Service and taken to hospital with what were described as minor injuries.

Police statement

Dyfed‑Powys Police confirmed officers attended the scene alongside fire and ambulance crews. A spokesperson said:

“Dyfed‑Powys Police attended to a report of a single‑vehicle road traffic collision on the B4304 near Llwynhendy at around 8.15pm on Tuesday 23 September. Two people were taken to hospital. The road was closed while emergency services attended the scene and reopened at around 11.50pm.”

Road closure

The B4304 was shut for more than three hours while emergency services worked at the scene, reopening shortly before midnight.

Related stories on road traffic incidents

Baglan to Port Talbot road closed after ‘serious collision’
The A48 was shut in both directions after a van ended up hanging off a high stone wall in Baglan. Police described it as a serious collision, with the road reopening later that morning.

Police officer sentenced for careless driving after crashing police car while on duty
PC Phil Thomas admitted careless driving after colliding with another vehicle and a lamppost in Ammanford. He received penalty points, a fine and faces a misconduct investigation.

Morriston teen locked up after deliberately driving into a man and fracturing his skull
A teenager from Morriston was jailed after using his car as a weapon, leaving a man with life‑changing injuries in a deliberate hit‑and‑run attack.

Police release details of two arrests after Pontyates crossing crash
Two people were arrested after a car lost control and crashed into a zebra crossing outside Pontyates Rugby Club, sparking community calls for better safety measures.

#DyfedPowysPolice #Llanelli #Llwynhendy #MidAndWestWalesFireAndRescueService #RoadTrafficAccident #waterRescue

Families pay tribute after two men killed in A40 crash

The single‑vehicle crash happened in the early hours of Sunday morning, 14 September, between Haverfordwest and Treffgarne. Emergency services were called at around 3.10am, but both occupants of a silver Volkswagen Polo were pronounced dead at the scene. The road was closed in both directions between Spittal and Haverfordwest for more than 12 hours while crash investigators worked, reopening at around 4.45pm on Sunday.

One of those who died was 18‑year‑old Aled Bowen. In a statement, his family said:

“It is with profound sorrow that we share the passing of our beloved, Aled. He was a cherished son, a devoted brother and uncle and a source of love and strength to everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Aled left us on 14.09.25, and while our hearts are broken, we hold tightly to the memories of his laughter and the countless ways he enriched our lives. His kindness and spirit will live with us forever.

In this time of grief, we ask for privacy and understanding as our family navigates this immense loss. We are deeply grateful for the compassion and prayers we have already received from everyone.

Arrangements to honour Aled’s life will be shared in the coming days. For now, we take comfort in remembering him not only as a son and a brother but as someone whose presence made the world brighter.”

The second victim has been named as 23‑year‑old Aled Coleman, from Scleddau. His family said:

“Aled was caring, kind, fun loving and will be massively missed by all his family.”

Dyfed‑Powys Police confirmed that both men’s next of kin are being supported by specialist officers. The Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service said a crew from Haverfordwest Fire Station was called to the scene at 3.17am.

The incident was described by police as “very serious”, with the A40 shut between Day’s Roundabout in Haverfordwest and Wolfscastle for much of the day. Drivers were advised to avoid the area and use alternative routes until the road was reopened late on Sunday afternoon.

Investigating officers are appealing for witnesses who may have seen the collision or have dash‑cam footage that could assist their enquiries. Anyone with information is asked to contact Dyfed‑Powys Police online via this link, by emailing 101@dyfed-powys.police.uk, or by calling 101. Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or via crimestoppers-uk.org. Please quote reference 25760810*.

#A40 #A40Collision #DyfedPowysPolice #fatalAccident #Haverfordwest #RoadTrafficAccident #Scleddau #Spittal #Wolfscastle

Video shows moment high‑speed Llanelli police chase ends in Felinfoel crash

Dashcam footage from inside a Dyfed‑Powys Police car shows the final moments of the pursuit through the narrow 20mph streets of Felinfoel, with the Kia Sportage reaching 60mph before slamming into a lamppost outside the Royal Oak pub.

The chase happened in the early hours of 7 July this year, just a month after police had first stopped the same driver – 31‑year‑old Perry Dyson, of Brynlluan, Gorslas – in Llanelli’s Parc Trostre retail park.

First arrest in June

Swansea Crown Court heard officers stopped the Kia at Parc Trostre on 7 June. Dyson, who was disqualified from driving, gave a false name and tested positive for cocaine. He later admitted taking the drug earlier that day. The car belonged to his ex‑partner.

A blood sample was taken before Dyson answered “no comment” in interview and was released on bail.

Breach of restraining order and 3am visit

A month later, Dyson breached a restraining order by knocking on his ex‑partner’s door at 3am. Out of fear, she handed over her car keys and phone.

Shortly afterwards, police spotted the Kia and a pursuit began through Llanelli. Dyson hit speeds of more than 70mph in residential areas, overtook other vehicles and forced oncoming drivers to take evasive action.

The pursuit ended when he lost control and crashed outside the Royal Oak. Arrested at the scene, Dyson told officers he had taken the car to buy drugs. He again tested positive for cocaine at the roadside but refused to give a blood sample in custody.

Court: ‘Chance after chance’

Dyson admitted two counts of driving while disqualified, two counts of driving without insurance, dangerous driving, failing to provide a specimen, and breaching a restraining order.

He has previous convictions for offences including common assault, drug possession, failing to provide a specimen, and coercive or controlling behaviour – for which he received a suspended sentence in February this year.

Judge Huw Rees told him: “The courts have given you chance after chance… people in Llanelli would be well pleased if you were kept in custody.” But, after reading letters from Dyson and prison staff, he imposed a 24‑month prison sentence suspended for 18 months.

Dyson must complete an accredited programme, a rehabilitation course, a drug rehabilitation requirement, and 200 hours of unpaid work. He was banned from driving for three years and must pass an extended test before regaining his licence.

Police blood test delay criticised

The court also heard the Crown Prosecution Service had been waiting since 1 August for Dyfed‑Powys Police to provide the results of Dyson’s June blood test. Judge Rees said he would direct police to write to him personally to explain the delay, warning he would “take further action” if they failed to respond.

#DyfedPowysPolice #featured #Felinfoel #Gorslas #Llanelli #PolicePursuit

Councillor warns of ‘fatal risk’ after child offered drugs in Llanelli

Labour Lliedi ward councillor Shaun Greaney said the teenager was approached at around 5.30 pm on Thursday 4 September in a lane leading from Penygaer Field to Felinfoel. The man allegedly “waved a white rock” in front of the boy’s face and asked him to buy it.

The boy refused and told his mother, who contacted Cllr Greaney.

“Fortunately her son had the good sense to say no, but the lady is terrified of the potential consequences for other children and has asked me to spread the alert,” he said.

“She fears there could be a fatality and I wholeheartedly share that worry. Drug dealing is an evil trade and I am urging all parents in the area to wise up their children to say no to drugs and to beware stranger danger.”

The councillor said the incident follows previous reports of young men on e‑bikes behaving suspiciously along the nearby River Lliedi path. He has called for an “instant response” from police, including a public appeal for witnesses, and urged residents to act as “the eyes and ears” of the force.

Dyfed‑Powys Police confirmed they received a report of the approach and that the youth declined the offer. The force said the Penygaer area has now been added to the Neighbourhood Policing and Prevention Team’s autumn patrol plan.

A spokesperson said tackling the supply of drugs remained a priority:

“We continue to work tirelessly to reduce drug misuse within our communities, to make it a less lucrative market for drug suppliers to operate in, and in doing so, make Carmarthenshire a safer place to live.

Communities know best what is normal for them, and we rely on the public to help us identify drug dealing activity so we can take robust action.”

Anyone with information about the man involved or concerns about drug use or supply is urged to contact police via the Dyfed‑Powys Police website, by emailing 101@dyfed-powys.police.uk, calling 101, or messaging the force on social media. Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via crimestoppers-uk.org.

#CllrShaunGreaney #drugs #DyfedPowysPolice #Felinfoel #Llanelli #Penygaer #PenygaerField #RiverLliedi

£1,000 reward to trace men in trilby hats after Carmarthen burglary

Dyfed-Powys Police say the incident happened on Water Street on Tuesday 26 August. Officers have released an image showing the men, three of whom have their faces covered with glasses and scarves or masks. The fourth man’s face is partially visible from the nose down. All four are wearing black trilby-style hats.

A Crimestoppers Wales spokesperson said:

“Dyfed-Powys Police would like to speak to these men in connection with the burglary in Carmarthen. We are offering a £1,000 reward for information that could help in their arrest or conviction.”

The charity stressed that to be eligible for the reward, information must be given directly to Crimestoppers, not to the police. Callers should request a reward code when contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

If submitting information online at crimestoppers-uk.org, the ‘keeping in contact’ facility must be used and a reward code requested at the time.

Crimestoppers is an independent charity that has enabled people to report crimes anonymously since 1988. It operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

#burglary #Carmarthen #Crimestoppers #DyfedPowysPolice #reward #TrilbyHat #WaterStreet

Thousands of shoplifting cases go unsolved in South Wales and Dyfed‑Powys as charge rates remain low

House of Commons Library data obtained by the Welsh Liberal Democrats shows that in 2024‑25, 6,734 shoplifting investigations in South Wales and 946 in Dyfed‑Powys were closed with no suspect identified. That’s the equivalent of more than 21 incidents a day going unsolved across the two force areas combined.

South Wales Police recorded a charge rate of 25.3%, while Dyfed‑Powys Police charged or summoned suspects in just 13.6% of cases. Across Wales, 13,077 shoplifting investigations were closed without a suspect — around 35 a day.

The Liberal Democrats say the figures highlight the scale of the problem and the impact on local businesses, warning that shoplifting is “not a victimless crime” and that staff are increasingly at risk from persistent offenders.

David Chadwick MP, Welsh Liberal Democrat for Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe, said:

“These shameful figures show the impact years of cuts to our police by the Conservatives had on society. This Labour government must now right these wrongs and crack down on shoplifting. Shoplifting is at epidemic levels in Wales now, with many business owners feeling like it has all but been decriminalised and many retail staff increasingly being put in harm’s way.”

Cllr Sam Bennett, the party’s Senedd candidate for Gwyr Abertawe (Swansea & Gower), added:

“Shoplifting is not a victimless crime; it does a huge amount of damage to our local businesses and those who work in them. It’s time for the government to scrap Police and Crime Commissioners and invest the money in frontline policing instead. That way we can get more bobbies on the beat and stop this lawlessness on our high streets.”

The party is calling for the role of Police and Crime Commissioners to be abolished, with the funds redirected to frontline policing.

Wider picture

Retail trade bodies have previously warned that rising shoplifting rates are linked to organised crime as well as opportunistic theft, and have called for tougher enforcement alongside better support for shop workers.

#DavidChadwickMP #DyfedPowysPolice #PoliceAndCrimeCommissioner #prosecution #SamBennett #shoplifting #SouthWalesPolice #WelshLiberalDemocrats

Llanelli carpenter jailed over cannabis growing operation in father’s garage

Dean Richards, 45, admitted producing cannabis and possessing the drug with intent to supply after police uncovered plants, drugs and growing equipment at multiple locations linked to him.

Swansea Crown Court heard officers executed a search warrant at an industrial unit in Bynea Business Park on 26 July. Inside, they found almost two kilograms of cannabis along with scales, mobile phones and specialist cultivation equipment.

When police went to Richards’ home address, he told them there was more cannabis in his garden shed. Officers recovered around a third of a kilo of the drug along with cuttings.

The investigation then led to his father’s property, where Richards had sole use of a rear garage. Inside, officers discovered 55 cannabis plants at various stages of growth in tents fitted with lights, fans and filters.

The court was told Richards, of Cambrian Street, North Dock, had 16 previous convictions for 38 offences, including earlier cannabis-related matters.

Defending, Ieuan Rees said Richards was a father-of-three who ran a carpentry business employing three people, and that the industrial unit was primarily used as a workshop. Plans to open a café there, run by his wife, had been put on hold pending the court case.

Sentencing, Judge Catherine Richards described the set‑up as a “professional” operation and said the defendant had “clearly done [his] research” to make it profitable. She accepted he was remorseful but said he had chosen to embark on the enterprise despite other financial options.

Richards was jailed for 40 months. He will serve 40 per cent of the term in custody before being released on licence. A Proceeds of Crime investigation will now follow.

#Bynea #ByneaBusinessPark #Cannabis #drugs #DyfedPowysPolice #Llanelli #NorthDock

Family pay tribute to ‘loving mother’ killed in A40 collision

Jodie Amanda James died in hospital on Sunday 24 August, after she was seriously injured in a collision while riding her bike on the A40 on the morning of Friday 22 August.

Paying tribute to her, Jodie’s family said:

“Jodie was a loving mother to Kaleb, daughter to Amanda and Stephen, and sister to Sammy and her brother-in-law, Kristian. Jodie was a loving sister to her brother Adam, and auntie to Karter, Lilith, and Atlas.”

“Jodie was an inspiration, a very special person to us all.”

Officers are continuing to appeal for witnesses of the collision.

A 33-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving and driving an unfit vehicle. He has been bailed while enquiries continue.

Anyone who was travelling along the A40 near Llanddewi Velfrey at around 8am on Friday 22 August and has dash-cam footage is asked to contact police:

| https://orlo.uk/ODIbi

| 101@dyfed-powys.police.uk

| 101

Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555111, or visiting crimestoppers-uk.org.

Quote ref: 25*695926

[Lead image: Dyfed Powys Police]

#A40Collision #DyfedPowysPolice

Undercover police disrupt street fight and safeguard vulnerable women in Haverfordwest

A major undercover policing operation in Haverfordwest has led to multiple arrests, the disruption of a street fight, and the safeguarding of vulnerable women — as Dyfed-Powys Police expands its Project Vigilant scheme across West Wales.

The operation took place on Saturday 2 August and involved plain-clothed and uniformed officers working in tandem to identify and disrupt potentially predatory or violent behaviour in the town’s nightlife hotspots.

Street fight and drug arrest

Officers responded to a large-scale disorder on Portfield Avenue, where several men were reported fighting in the street. One man was arrested for being drunk and disorderly, while others were dispersed by police teams.

Elsewhere, a driver was stopped for erratic behaviour and dealt with for driving without due care and attention. Another man was issued a Section 59 notice for antisocial driving on Quay Street — meaning his vehicle can be seized if he reoffends within 12 months.

The plain-clothed team also arrested a man for possession of a Class A drug after observing suspicious behaviour in the town centre.

Safeguarding vulnerable women

Officers engaged with door staff, street pastors and members of the public throughout the evening. Several potentially vulnerable women were identified and supported, including two 18-year-olds found in a secluded area with a group of men. Officers ensured their safety and provided safeguarding advice.

Detective Sergeant Vinny Barrett, Dyfed-Powys Police, said: “The aim of Vigilant is to ensure the safety of people primarily on a night out, and to prevent sexual or serious offences from taking place. Prevention is a hugely important part of policing, and by working in teams of officers who look out for and disrupt potential criminal behaviour we can really make a difference.”

Project Vigilant expands forcewide

Originally piloted in Carmarthenshire over Christmas, Project Vigilant is now being rolled out across Pembrokeshire, Ceredigion and Powys. The initiative uses plain-clothed ‘spotters’ trained in behavioural observation to identify predatory behaviour, with uniformed officers stepping in to disrupt potential offences.

Chief Inspector Dominic Jones, Dyfed-Powys Police, said: “Everyone should feel safe on a night out, and nobody should feel the need to change their behaviour to avoid becoming a victim. By looking out for potential predators, we will ultimately be changing the behaviours of those who could cause harm and making our communities safer for all.”

The scheme is supported by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner under the Serious Violence Duty.

Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn said: “This is a proactive and intelligence-led approach that puts officers in the right place at the right time to identify and disrupt predatory behaviour before harm is caused.”

Project Vigilant was first developed by Thames Valley Police and has since influenced national practice. Dyfed-Powys officers received specialist training in behavioural observation and risk management before deployment.

#DafyddLlewellyn #drugs #drunkAndDisorderly #DyfedPowysPolice #fighting #Haverfordwest #Pembrokeshire #PoliceAndCrimeCommissioner #PortfieldAvenue #ProjectVigilant #QuayStreet #streetFighting #undercoverPolice

Milford Haven man jailed after e-scooter crash reveals £15k drug stash

Justin Cadwell, 29, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on 24 July, where he was sentenced for multiple drug offences and possession of criminal property. He also received a two-year driving ban for failing to provide a blood sample.

The charges stem from a collision at Hakin Point on 1 March, when Cadwell and another rider were found unconscious next to an e-scooter. While waiting for paramedics, officers spotted a bag of herbal cannabis hanging from Cadwell’s coat. As paramedics cut open the coat, they inadvertently sliced into a concealed bag of white powder. A second bag of powder and £570 in cash were also recovered.

The powder was confirmed to be cocaine, with a street value estimated between £7,080 and £9,200. Cadwell was charged with possession of cocaine and cannabis with intent to supply.

At the time of the crash, Cadwell was already under investigation following a stop check in Hampshire in August 2024, where officers found large quantities of nitrous oxide, cocaine, cannabis and ketamine in his vehicle. He claimed the substances were for personal use.

A subsequent search of his home in Observatory Avenue, Milford Haven, uncovered further drugs, cutting agents and over £25,000 in cash. The additional haul had an estimated street value of £5,031 to £6,191.

Detective Sergeant Vinny Barrett, Dyfed-Powys Police, said:

“This was a very thorough investigation by our officers, who were proactive in stopping Cadwell’s vehicle out of the force area, and conducted a subsequent search of his home in Pembrokeshire. We believe this sentence will have disrupted the supply of cocaine, ketamine and cannabis in the Milford Haven area, which is a positive result for the community.”

#Cannabis #cocaine #drugs #DyfedPowysPolice #eScooter #HakinPoint #ketamine #MilfordHaven #NitrousOxide

Fatal collision in Llanelli sparks calls for safety measures on Station Road

A male pedestrian was fatally injured after being struck by a motorcycle near the Home Bargains store on Station Road, Llanelli, at approximately 9.55pm on Friday 1 August.

Emergency services, including Ambulance and Air Ambulance teams, attended the scene and provided first aid, but the man sadly died at the scene.

Dyfed Powys Police confirmed that a 21-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of Causing Death by Dangerous Driving and other related offences. He remains in custody. Officers are not seeking anyone else in connection with the incident.

The road was closed overnight and reopened on Saturday 2 August. The victim’s family has been informed and is receiving support from specialist officers.

Police are appealing for witnesses or anyone with dash cam or Ring Doorbell footage to come forward.

Petition launched to demand safety upgrades on Station Road

In response to the fatal collision, a new petition has been launched urging Carmarthenshire Council to install traffic calming measures on Station Road.

The petition, titled “Install Safety Measures on Station Road, Llanelli”, highlights the dangers posed by speeding vehicles in a busy pedestrian area lined with shops, takeaways, and hairdressers.

“Too many people are ending up losing their lives or ending up seriously injured due to motorists being able to drive at dangerously high speeds,” the petition states.

Campaigners are calling for the installation of speed bumps, speed cameras, and frequent pedestrian crossings to reduce accidents and protect residents.

Citing national data, the petition notes that such measures can reduce accidents by up to 50%. It urges local authorities to act swiftly to prevent further tragedies.

The petition was created on 2 August and is gathering signatures from residents and visitors concerned about road safety in Llanelli.

#DyfedPowysPolice #fatalAccident #Llanelli #pedestrianCrossing #petition #RoadTrafficAccident #speedBumps #SpeedCamera #StationRoad #trafficCalming

Paedophile jailed after posing as a 15-year-old boy targeting children online

Terry Hughes, of Meadow Way in Waterston, Milford Haven, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Wednesday, 30 July, where he pleaded guilty to a string of child sex offences despite being subject to an existing sexual harm prevention order (SHPO).

Hughes, already a registered sex offender due to prior convictions, created multiple online accounts and asked children to send indecent images of themselves.

The court heard that police were alerted to suspicious online activity connected to an IP address traced back to Hughes. Officers attended his Pembrokeshire home, where Hughes initially denied possessing any electronic devices but later handed over a mobile phone found beside his bed.

Analysis of the device revealed that between September last year and June this year, Hughes had used Snapchat to impersonate a 15-year-old, actively contacting people he believed to be under the age of 18 and soliciting naked photographs.

Prosecuting, Alycia Carpanini explained that Hughes had sent indecent photos of himself, including at least one believed to show him masturbating.

Communication was also found between Hughes and an individual he believed to be just 10 years old, as well as with an adult man with a four-year-old son, with disturbing discussions about a young child in a nappy.

Hughes sent multiple nude images of himself to others and, in total, admitted to two counts of attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child, attempting to cause a child to view a sexual act, making an indecent image, and breaching the conditions of a sexual harm prevention order.

Defending, David Singh said Hughes “deeply regrets his behaviour” and acknowledges he has “a real problem”.

Passing sentence, Judge Geraint Walters told Hughes he “relentlessly pursued an interest in engaging with this behaviour”.

In addition to his prison sentence, Hughes was made subject to a new SHPO, which will remain in place for 10 years.

[Lead image: Dyfed Powys Police]

#DyfedPowysPolice #paedophile #SwanseaCrownCourt

Long prison sentence for vile Swansea man who raped and controlled women

Jamil Ahmed admitted committing offences against four victims, three from other police force areas and one who lived in Dyfed-Powys.

The 28-year-old, from Clydach in Swansea, was charged with rape and controlling and coercive behaviour against a woman from Llanelli, who described him as ‘intimidating’ and ‘frightening’.

Swansea Crown Court heard how the victim reported being raped by Ahmed while she was passed out. She only found out about the offence when he showed her a video of him having sexual intercourse with her as she slept.  

He also controlled aspects of her life, preventing her from speaking to other men, blocking family members from contacting her, shutting down her social media accounts, and threatening to harm people she knew.

He controlled her emotions and finances, and even slept outside her home, and near her children’s school so he would see her when she dropped them off in the morning.

After pleading guilty to three charges of rape, three charges of controlling and coercive behaviour, and one charge of stalking, Ahmed was sentenced to 20 years in prison, with an extended licence of eight years on release. He is also subject to an indefinite restraining order.

Officer in case DC Jack Herbert, of Dyfed-Powys Police, said:

“Ahmed is a dangerous individual who showed calculated and predatory behaviour towards four women, leaving them in fear of his outbursts.

“I commend each of them for having the strength to speak out about him, and to report his criminal actions in order for us to investigate and bring him to justice. This has taken great courage, but it is thanks to them that he has received this lengthy prison sentence.

“I would encourage anyone living in a controlling relationship, or who has suffered a sexual offence, to reach out for help. Either report it to police, and we can ensure you receive the support you need during an investigation, or look to speak to a specialist service if you are not yet ready to report.”

You can find information about reporting rape and sexual offences, and contact details for support services here.

[Lead image: Dyfed Powys Police]

#Clydach #DyfedPowysPolice #rape

Llanelli man admits late-night robbery of woman walking home alone

A 31-year-old man from Llanelli has admitted robbing a woman of her handbag as she walked home alone after a night out with friends. The incident took place just before midnight on Friday 20 June, near Eastgate bus station, and ended with the victim being pulled to the ground on Glenalla Road.

Jake Dighton, of Bridge Street, Llanelli, pleaded guilty to robbery at Swansea Crown Court on Friday 25 July. He has been remanded in custody and will be sentenced later this year.

The court heard that the woman had been on the phone to her boyfriend when she first noticed Dighton nearby. She slowed down and crossed the road to create distance, believing he had gone in a different direction. Moments later, she felt her shoulder pulled back by the strap of her handbag and fell forward onto the pavement as Dighton ran off with her bag.

Despite suffering cuts and bruises, the victim attempted to chase him but lost sight of him. She returned home and contacted police.

Following a public appeal, Dyfed Powys Police carried out extensive CCTV and doorstep enquiries. Footage from the area helped officers track Dighton’s movements before and after the robbery. He was eventually found living in a tent in the grounds of St Elli’s Church, and was arrested and charged.

Police praised the victim’s courage and the community’s support during the investigation.

This is not the first time Dighton has faced serious charges for violence. In 2014, he was sentenced to six years in youth custody for a frenzied knife attack in Llanelli. According to a Wales Online report, Dighton slashed a man’s arm so severely it resembled “something out of a butcher’s shop,” inadvertently stabbing his own brother during the assault. The incident left the victim with long-term nerve and tendon damage requiring multiple surgeries.

A publicly viewable social media image of Dighton has been used to accompany this report, in the absence of an official custody photograph.

#assault #DyfedPowysPolice #Eastgate #GlenallaRoad #Llanelli #mugging #robbery #StElliSChurch #streetRobbery

Family pays tribute to 18-year-old Sally Allen following fatal A40 collision

The family of Sally Allen, an 18-year-old from Cresswell Quay, Kilgetty, have paid heartfelt tribute following her death in a collision on the A40 at Broadoak, between Carmarthen and Llandeilo, on Wednesday morning, July 23.

Sally died after a crash involving a red Renault Clio and a blue Audi Q5. In a statement released by Dyfed Powys Police, her family described her as “endlessly caring, unintentionally hilarious and the most amazing supportive and joyful person.”

They added:

“Sally was a much-loved sister to William and Issie, and a treasured daughter of Richard and Kate. She was a beloved granddaughter to Nanna, Bamps, Nanny and Pops and was loved by all her aunties, uncles and cousins. She had a large number of friends and was very popular with everyone who knew her.

In only 18 years of her life, she touched the hearts of so many people within her community, her school, her work and social life. She was a girl who found happiness in attending Young Farmers Club, including Martletwy YFC. She enjoyed horse riding and her day-to-day life at home in Cresswell Quay.

Sally lit up any room she entered with her smile and personality. Since her death it has become apparent how much Sally was loved and cherished. Her sudden absence leaves an unfillable space in the lives so many people that knew and loved her.

The Allen family is devastated, in shock and is being comforted and supported by family and friends.”

Police appeal for witnesses

Dyfed Powys Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances of the collision and are appealing for witnesses. Officers are particularly keen to hear from anyone who was travelling along the A40 at Broadoak around 8am on Wednesday, July 23, and may have dash camera footage.

Information can be submitted:

• Online via Dyfed Powys Police’s contact portal
• By email: 101@dyfed-powys.police.uk
• By phone: 101, quoting reference 075 of the 23rd

Alternatively, information can be shared anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or at crimestoppers-uk.org.

#A40 #A40Collision #BroadOak #Broadoak #Carmarthen #communityTribute #CresswellQuay #DyfedPowysPolice #fatalAccident #fatalCrash #Kilgetty #Llandeilo #MartletwyYFC #RoadTrafficAccident #SallyAllen #WalesNews #witnessAppeal #YoungFarmersClub