A MAN from Carmarthen has been found not guilty of sexually assaulting a child following a trial at Swansea Crown Court.

Stephen Boswell, aged 32, of Brynhaul Street, had been accused of assaulting a girl by penetration during an alleged incident said to have taken place in St Clears between 2010 and 2013.

Boswell denied the allegation and maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings.

During the trial, the prosecution alleged that Boswell had warned the girl the act “was going to hurt but she would get used to it” before the alleged assault took place. When asked in court whether he had sexually touched the child, Boswell responded: “No, I did not.”

Defence barrister Dyfed Thomas said Boswell had given “a clear and consistent denial” from the outset. He also highlighted inconsistencies in the complainant’s account and differences in the evidence presented by witnesses.

The court was told Boswell had no previous convictions and had fully cooperated with police during their investigation, answering all questions in interview.

After deliberating for approximately 50 minutes, the jury returned a verdict of not guilty.

Judge Paul Thomas KC thanked the jury for their careful consideration of the case. Boswell was discharged from the dock.

DYFED-POWYS Police is investigating a domestic burglary which occurred at an address in Precelly Place, Milford Haven, on Wednesday (Apr 23).

Officers hand-delivered letters to residents in the area on Thursday (Apr 24), appealing for information that may assist with the investigation.

No arrests have been made at this stage and enquiries are ongoing.

A MAN from St Davids is facing serious allegations of domestic abuse, including physical assault and coercive control, spanning more than two years.

Ryan Bowen, aged 44, of Nun Street, appeared in court accused of controlling and abusive behaviour towards his partner between August 2019 and January 2022.

Bowen is alleged to have physically assaulted the woman by slamming a car door on her leg, punching her in the ribs, and pushing her. The court also heard he verbally abused her, belittled her as a mother, and threatened to kill her.

It is further alleged he controlled her finances, dictated what she wore, where she could sleep, and where she was allowed to work.

Prosecutors also claimed he threatened to take her children away and told her he would kill himself if she ever left him.

Bowen has denied the charges.

Judge Paul Thomas KC asked defence barrister Dyfed Thomas whether his client would consider pleading guilty to any lesser charges. Mr Thomas responded that Bowen was “adamant” the allegations were untrue and would not be changing his plea.

A trial has been listed for December 9. Bowen was granted bail until that date.