Crime
Parents urged to consider legal risks before buying e-scooters this Christmas

PARENTS are being urged to reconsider purchasing e-scooters as Christmas gifts due to legal restrictions and potential risks. While the devices might appear to be a fun and exciting present, Dyfed-Powys Police caution that they could lead to significant legal and financial consequences.
In the UK, privately owned e-scooters are only legal to use on private land with the landowner’s permission. Riding them on public roads, pavements, parks, or cycle paths is prohibited and considered an offence. Parents should be aware that they could face prosecution if their child uses an e-scooter illegally.
E-scooters are classified as Personal Light Electric Vehicles (PLEVs), meaning riders can be charged with several offences. These may result in fines of up to £300, six penalty points on a driving licence, and confiscation of the e-scooter. Drivers who passed their test within the last two years risk disqualification and may need to retake their theory and practical tests.
“Understand the rules and risks”
Sergeant Dave Mallin of Dyfed-Powys Police said: “We understand that e-scooters may seem like a fun and exciting gift idea, but it’s important to understand the rules and risks that come with them. Privately owned e-scooters are illegal to use on public roads, pavements, or cycle paths. Their speed and silence can pose a significant danger to other road users and pedestrian safety, especially vulnerable pedestrians.
“Many people are unaware of the restrictions on e-scooters, and while retailers may be happy to sell one to you, it could be seized the moment you attempt to use it in a public place.”
Riders must also be over 16 and hold a full or provisional licence for a car, motorbike, or moped. While some parts of the UK operate rental e-scooter trials under strict conditions, these schemes are not available in the Dyfed-Powys area.
“Zero tolerance this Christmas”
Sgt Mallin added: “Dyfed-Powys Police operates a zero-tolerance approach to e-scooters, and we would urge parents to think twice about buying e-scooters as presents this Christmas. Consider a safer and more appropriate gift.”
For more information about e-scooter regulations and safe usage, visit Dyfed-Powys Police’s advice page.
Crime
Haverfordwest resident denies assault on partner during birthday break

A HAVERFORDWEST man has gone on trial accused of attacking his partner while on holiday in Pembrokeshire.
John Roberts, aged 51, of Barn Street, appeared at Swansea Crown Court charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm and criminal damage.
The incident is alleged to have taken place on August 24 last year at a shepherd’s hut in Rosemarket, where the couple were staying to celebrate the complainant’s birthday.
Roberts is accused of grabbing his partner by the hair and banging her head against a wall, before damaging a fireplace inside the property. He denies both charges.
Opening the case, prosecutor Emily Bennett told the jury that Roberts and the complainant had been in a relationship for twelve years and were enjoying a holiday following a family barbecue.
She said that shortly after midnight, Roberts’ “mood changed,” and he allegedly launched the attack.
The jury heard that the complainant managed to escape, locked herself in the bathroom and called the police. When she later emerged, Roberts had left the property — taking one of their dogs and the keys with him — and she noticed the fireplace had been damaged.
Roberts was arrested later that day. In police interview, he denied assaulting the woman or causing any damage, claiming she had “started on him” after accusing him of being unfaithful.
The trial, before Judge Wayne Beard, continues.
Crime
Fined for dropping cigarette at Milford Haven Tesco

A LLANELLI man who dropped a cigarette outside Tesco in Milford Haven has been fined over £570 after failing to attend court.
Mark Evens, aged 42, of Llys Westfa, Llanelli, was found guilty in his absence at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Thursday (Apr 3).
The court heard that on September 3, 2024, Evens discarded a cigarette butt in a public place to which section 87 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 applied.
He was fined £220 and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £88 and prosecution costs of £266.66. A collection order was made, and the full balance of £574.66 must be paid by May 1.
Crime
Court adjourns marine enforcement case

A SWANSEA man failed to appear in court after being accused of refusing to comply with a marine enforcement officer.
Ieuan Rhys Davies, aged 29, of Seaview Terrace, Penclawdd, is accused of failing to stop his vessel when directed by Marine Enforcement Officer Matthew Dawkins on June 6, 2024.
The case, brought under the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009, was adjourned until May 1 at 2:00pm.
Magistrates have ordered that Davies must attend the next hearing or risk a warrant being issued for his arrest.
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