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Crime

Ifan Charles confirmed as Chief Constable of Dyfed-Powys Police

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POLICE and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Dafydd Llywelyn has confirmed the appointment of Mr Ifan Charles as the new Chief Constable of Dyfed-Powys Police with immediate effect, following a confirmation hearing by the Dyfed-Powys Police and Crime Panel.

The decision follows a robust appointment process where the Commissioner presented Ifan Charles as his preferred candidate.

Mr Ifan Charles joined Dyfed-Powys Police in 2004. During his career, he has held a variety of roles across CID and uniformed policing across the Force area, progressing through different ranks. These roles have seen leadership of firearms incidents and serious crime such as Murder, where supporting and working with victims has been central to his approach.

Mr Charles successfully completed the Senior Police National Assessment Centre and Strategic Command Course in 2022, followed by undertaking the role of Assistant Chief Constable. He was appointed Deputy Chief Constable in July 2024.

Following former Chief Constable Dr Richard Lewis’ resignation earlier in 2025, Mr Charles has been acting up as Temporary Chief Constable, whilst PCC Dafydd Llywelyn and his Office undertook the recruitment and selection process.

Police and Crime Commissioner Llywelyn said: “ I am delighted that the Police and Crime Panel has endorsed my decision to appoint Mr Ifan Charles as Chief Constable. Mr Charles has demonstrated exceptional leadership, professionalism, and a clear vision for the future of Dyfed-Powys Police. He has a deep understanding of the organisation and the communities we serve, and I have every confidence in his ability to lead the Force with integrity, compassion, and determination.

“As Commissioner, I look forward to continuing our close working relationship as we build on the strong foundations already in place. Together we will focus on delivering effective, visible policing, investing in prevention, and supporting the dedicated officers, staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to keep our communities safe. “

Ifan Charles newly appointed Chief Constable of Dyfed-Powys Police said: “Being the Chief Constable is about service and delivering today for communities of Dyfed-Powys but also creating and building a legacy of a safer, healthier, and thriving community in the future.  In creating this legacy, I will be authentic, visible, and engaging, focussed on thriving relationships with communities, partners, voluntary organisations, and our workforce to ensure that the public and victims remain at the heart of everything we do.”

Chair of the Panel Professor Ian Roffe said: “Following a successful confirmation hearing, the Police and Crime Panel warmly congratulates Ifan Charles on his appointment as Chief Constable of Dyfed-Powys Police. As a local man who has risen to this role through an open and rigorous competition, his achievement is a source of pride for the area.

On behalf of the Panel, we thank you for your thoughtful answers, commend your outstanding service, and wish you every success as you take on this important role.”

 

Crime

70-year-old denies assault and restraining order breach

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A PENSIONER from Pembroke Dock has denied breaching a restraining order and assaulting another man.

Henry Howlett, 70, of Market Street, appeared before Swansea Crown Court today (Friday, May 1), charged with breaching a restraining order and common assault.

The charges relate to an alleged incident on November 9 last year.

Howlett has previously appeared before magistrates in connection with a separate alleged incident involving a neighbour.

Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court previously heard that a dispute arose on July 17 after neighbour Steven Bromhall was washing his car outside his home in Market Street.

Prosecutor Nia James told the court that, as a taxi arrived to collect Howlett, the driver opened the window while passing and Mr Bromhall inadvertently sprayed the taxi driver with water from a hosepipe.

“The taxi driver started remonstrating, and the defendant then began waving his walking stick in the air, towards Mr Bromhall,” she said.

The court heard Mr Bromhall sustained an injury to his back, although it remained unclear whether he had been struck by Howlett’s stick.

Howlett pleaded not guilty to common assault in relation to that incident and was released on unconditional bail. A trial date was set at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court.

At Swansea Crown Court today, His Honour Judge P H Thomas KC asked Howlett whether he was legally represented.

“I can’t find anyone decent, I’m still searching, my lord,” Howlett replied.

When the court attempted to take his pleas, Howlett repeatedly interrupted in an effort to give an explanation, prompting the judge to tell him: “Be quiet, Mr Howlett.”

Howlett then pleaded not guilty to the charges, telling the court: “Definitely not guilty.”

As he left the courtroom, Howlett said: “I will get the truth out and I hope you all hang your heads in shame… this is all fixed.”

A trial date was set for January 14, 2027.

 

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Crime

Crymych parent denies failing to comply with school attendance order

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A CRYMYCH parent has denied failing to comply with a school attendance order, a court has heard.

The defendant appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates charged under the Education Act 1996.

The court heard that the defendant is accused of failing, as a parent, to ensure that a child attended school in accordance with the requirements of a School Attendance Order.

It is alleged that after being served with the order, the defendant did not comply within the required 15-day period.

A plea of not guilty was entered.

Magistrates adjourned the case for a case management hearing, which is scheduled to take place at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, May 14.

A reporting restriction remains in force.

 

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Crime

Cockle fisherman fined £3,450 for multiple breaches at protected site

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A GOODWICK man has been ordered to pay £3,450 after breaching fishing regulations at a protected cockle fishery.

Richard William Edwards, 45, of Goodwick, appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates charged with a series of offences at the Burry Inlet cockle fishery.

The court heard that Edwards had fished for cockles without a valid permit and breached conditions imposed under fisheries management rules. He was also found to have used an unauthorised vehicle in the fishery area, contrary to restrictions in place to protect the site.

Magistrates were told the offences took place on September 9, 2025, within the Burry Inlet Cockle Fishery, a designated and regulated area subject to strict controls.

Edwards was fined £1,000 and ordered to pay a victim services surcharge of £800, along with costs of £650, bringing the total to £3,450. A collection order was made.

The case was brought under fisheries legislation including the Cockle Fisheries Management and Permitting (Specified Area) (Wales) Order 2024.

The court heard that Edwards had been in breach of a prohibition imposed by the permitting system and had failed to comply with the terms of his permit.

The offences are part of ongoing enforcement efforts to protect the sustainability of cockle stocks and ensure compliance within the fishery.

 

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