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Crime

Vandalism at Narberth’s old library sparks concern from local councillor

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THE OLD library building in Narberth has been targeted by vandals ahead of its planned auction, prompting concerns from a senior Pembrokeshire councillor.

The incident, which occurred on Friday, April 26, saw the former library on St James Street broken into and damaged. The property, which has stood derelict for some time, is due to be sold by auction through John Francis.

Cllr Marc Tierney, Cabinet Member for Young People, Communities and the Wellbeing of Future Generations, said the intruders appeared to have forced entry by kicking in a side door, smashing glass panels and windows in the process.

Inside the building, crockery was destroyed and graffiti daubed across the walls.

Cllr Tierney said: “We’re all facing stretched budgets at the moment, and damage like this simply adds to the cost burden on the taxpayer. It’s very disappointing—this is an iconic building in the heart of Narberth, and it’s upsetting to see it treated in this way.”

The Herald understands this is the first time the old library has been vandalised. Pembrokeshire County Council is now increasing security at the site while the sale process continues.

There is concern the incident may be part of a wider trend of people targeting derelict buildings. Cllr Tierney warned: “There seems to be a craze at the moment for people to break into old properties and mess about. It’s not just illegal—it’s dangerous and irresponsible, especially in a residential area.”

Dyfed-Powys Police have confirmed they are investigating the matter.

A spokesperson said: “Dyfed-Powys Police received a report of a burglary and vandalism at the old library on St James Street, Narberth, on April 26. Officers attended and identified broken windows and graffiti inside the vacant building. Enquiries are ongoing.”

Cllr Tierney also posted on social media following the incident, describing the damage as a blow to the local community and calling for those responsible to be held accountable.

He added that he hoped the building could still serve a useful purpose in future, saying: “While it is due to be sold, I’d like to think there is still a chance for this site to play a positive role in the town again.”

Crime

Teenager to face Crown Court trial over strangulation allegations

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Two separate incidents under investigation

A TEENAGER has appeared before magistrates accused of attempting to strangle the same woman on two separate occasions.

Ieuan John, 19, of Plas Peregrein, Steynton, Milford Haven, is charged with attempting to strangle a female on January 6 and again on October 2, 2024. He is also accused of assaulting her, causing actual bodily harm.

“This matter is aggravated by the fact that there are two separate strangulations,” Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan told Haverfordwest magistrates on Tuesday.

The court heard that police were called to the second incident on October 2 following a report from the female, who alleged she had been punched to the legs and torso. She later attended hospital for treatment, where she disclosed the earlier alleged strangulation.

John denies all three charges.

Following a request from the Crown, magistrates declined jurisdiction and committed the case to Swansea Crown Court. Proceedings will commence on July 25.

John was granted conditional bail. He must not contact the complainant directly or indirectly, must not enter Richard John Road, Milford Haven, and must reside and sleep at his home address.

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Crime

Milford man admits threatening neighbour after 27-year feud

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Victim ‘terrified’ after being called homophobic slur

A MILFORD HAVEN man has admitted using homophobic and abusive language during a confrontation with his neighbour of 27 years.

Andrew Johns, 46, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court this week, where he pleaded guilty to using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress.

The incident occurred on May 30 in Richard John Road, when neighbour Elizabeth Radcliffe returned home.

“They’ve lived next door to each other for 27 years, but there have been numerous issues,” said Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan. “That day, when she came home, the defendant started calling her a c*** and said he was going to kill her husband, who he described as ‘a f****** gay muppet’.”

Ms Vaughan said the victim was left feeling terrified in her own home as a result of the outburst.

Probation report ordered

Due to the homophobic nature of the comments and concerns over the defendant’s mental health, magistrates agreed to a request from the Crown Prosecution Service for a full probation report to be prepared before sentencing.

Johns, of Richard John Road, was released on conditional bail until sentencing on July 15. He must not contact Mr or Mrs Radcliffe, either directly or indirectly.

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Crime

Man remanded after escaping police by asking to check on dog

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A PEMBROKESHIRE man has been remanded in custody after escaping from police by claiming he needed to tend to his dog.

Officers attended the home of Zachariah Roberts, 23, in Marble Hall Road, Milford Haven, to question him over an alleged breach of bail conditions. During the visit, Roberts asked to check on his dog.

“He was given some latitude by officers,” Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan told Haverfordwest magistrates this week. “But instead, he let himself out of the property and made off. It doesn’t get any higher than that.”

Magistrates declined jurisdiction due to the seriousness of the offence. Following a request by Ms Vaughan, Roberts was remanded in custody.

The remand was made on the grounds that he may commit further offences, interfere with witnesses, or fail to surrender to bail.

Roberts is due to appear at Swansea Crown Court on July 25.

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