Crime
Shoplifting concerns spread to Narberth as High Street pharmacy issues warning
BUSINESSES in Narberth are facing mounting challenges as concerns over shoplifting spread beyond Tenby. Narberth High Street Pharmacy has issued a stark warning to local traders after a suspected theft incident, urging vigilance among businesses and the public.
In a statement posted online, the pharmacy said: “Warning to Narberth High Street. Another case of suspected theft. Please watch the video carefully. Items were not left behind after inspecting the shelves. It is extremely difficult for businesses to remain viable when this sort of thing happens.”
The pharmacy, which remains open seven days a week, highlighted the growing difficulties in maintaining a presence in the town due to ongoing retail crime.
Rising shoplifting across Pembrokeshire
The incident in Narberth follows widespread national coverage of shoplifting issues in Tenby, where local businesses have reported thousands of pounds in losses due to theft. The situation has drawn attention to a concerning trend across Pembrokeshire, where independent shops and pharmacies—already struggling with rising costs—are finding it increasingly difficult to operate.
According to the latest crime data, shoplifting offences have been rising in Wales, mirroring a nationwide trend. The Office for National Statistics reported a 23% increase in retail thefts across England and Wales in the past year. In Dyfed-Powys, shoplifting cases have surged by 12%, with many small businesses feeling the pressure.
Call for action
Narberth traders are now calling for more proactive policing and stronger deterrents to tackle the issue. While CCTV and security measures have been introduced by some businesses, many feel they are left to handle the problem themselves, with limited police resources available.
The pharmacy urged the community to assist in identifying the individual involved in the latest suspected theft, stating:
“If anyone has any info on this individual, please share so we can follow up with the police.”
With the problem now affecting multiple towns in Pembrokeshire, there is growing pressure for authorities to implement stronger measures to support businesses and protect livelihoods.
Crime
Former Swansea Prison inmate died 48 hours after release
A FORMER Swansea Prison inmate died from combined drug toxicity just 48 hours after being released, an official investigation has found.
Jason Maynard, 43, left HMP Swansea on May 23, 2024. Two days later, he was pronounced dead by paramedics after being found unresponsive in the back of a friend’s car.
The Prisons and Probation Ombudsman report says Mr Maynard had been given overdose-reversal medication before leaving custody and warned about the heightened risk of overdose after a period of reduced drug tolerance.
After his release, he attended his first probation appointment and was placed in temporary hotel accommodation by Swansea Council.
The following day, police were called after concerns were raised that Mr Maynard had a cut above his eye and appeared incoherent. He refused hospital treatment and was taken to his mother’s home.
The report says he later used drugs and drank alcohol with friends. He then fell asleep in a car outside an address, where he was later found unresponsive.
Mr Maynard had missed a substance misuse appointment on May 24 but attended the service the next day. Staff noted he had “blue around his mouth”, which caused concern about possible drug use.
The Ombudsman found that prison, probation and support services had taken appropriate steps before and after his release.
Its findings said Mr Maynard had received suitable substance misuse support, had been referred for accommodation, and had licence conditions in place covering drug and alcohol use, engagement with services and drug testing.
The report concluded that the necessary referrals and support arrangements had been made, but Mr Maynard died later the same day he attended the community substance misuse service.
Crime
Police appeal after reported rape at Young Farmers rally
POLICE are appealing for witnesses after an allegation of rape at a Young Farmers Club rally in Builth Wells.
Dyfed-Powys Police said the incident was reported to have taken place at Wernhalog Farm on Saturday, June 13.
Officers said it happened in the portaloo area sometime between 11:00pm and 11:45pm.
Anyone who witnessed anything, or who has information which could help the investigation, is asked to contact police.
Reports can be made online through the Dyfed-Powys Police website, by emailing [email protected], or by calling 101.
Information can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or through the Crimestoppers website.
Quote reference: 26*472649.
Crime
Dock woman given mental health treatment order after supermarket thefts
A PEMBROKE DOCK woman has been placed on a mental health treatment requirement after repeatedly stealing meat, cheese and other grocery items from local supermarkets.
Lisa Stewart, 45, admitted three theft offences when she appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week.
The first offence took place on March 11, when Stewart stole Vanish, Lenor and three packs of Persil capsules from Home Bargains in Pembroke Dock, with a total value of £58.41.
The following month, she stole four small beef joints, four steaks and three blocks of cheese from Asda in Pembroke Dock, worth £55.68.
Seven days later, she stole four legs of lamb from Farmfoods in Pembroke Dock, valued at £99.96.
Stewart, of Truscott House, London Road, Pembroke Dock, also pleaded guilty to failing to surrender to police bail on or around May 26.
She was represented in court by solicitor Alaw Harries, who told magistrates the thefts involved items of relatively low value and were not the result of “sophisticated offending”.
“The defendant has had an exceptionally difficult time, as last year she lost her partner to cancer and has struggled profoundly to process that grief,” said Ms Harries.
“Instead, she has attempted to cope by taking more of her prescribed medication than she should. And this is what has led her to be here today.”
Ms Harries said Stewart is now motivated to address her issues.
Magistrates sentenced Stewart to an 18-month community order. She must complete 15 rehabilitation activity requirement days, a 12-month mental health treatment requirement and a 12-month drug rehabilitation requirement.
The order will include monthly reviews in court.
Stewart must also pay £214.05 compensation to the supermarkets, together with a £114 surcharge and £85 costs.
-
Health7 days agoWoman jailed assaults on police, harassment and XL Bully possession
-
Crime2 days agoPolice appeal after reported rape at Young Farmers rally
-
Crime7 days agoMilford Haven woman spared jail despite string of shop thefts
-
Community6 days agoThe gentle giant behind the tattoos
-
Crime7 days agoSpittal man to stand trial accused of ABH
-
Crime7 days agoCarmarthenshire pensioner, 86, accused of causing prostitution for gain
-
Entertainment6 days agoHarbour Fest to bring music, food and maritime magic to Milford Waterfront
-
Health6 days agoWelsh Government refuses to halt Withybush and Bronglais service review





