Crime

Dyfed-Powys police chief responds to reform plans

Published

3 months ago

January 26, 2026

Neighbourhood policing priority

DYFED-POWYS POLICE Chief Constable Ifan Charles has responded to sweeping reform proposals outlined by the UK Government, as ministers signal significant changes to how policing operates across England and Wales.

The statement follows an announcement in the House of Commons by Shabana Mahmood, who set out plans aimed at reshaping policing to meet changing patterns of crime and rapid advances in technology.

Chief Constable Charles said police leaders were united in calling for “bold and ambitious reform” that delivers a world-class service for communities, officers, staff and volunteers.

He stressed that the focus of Dyfed-Powys Police would remain firmly on victims of crime and the communities the force serves, adding that it would be “business as usual” for now across the force area.

“Crime is changing, technology is evolving, and we need to be set up in the best possible way to tackle crime in the modern world,” he said.

The Chief Constable also underlined the importance of maintaining strong neighbourhood policing while ensuring forces are equipped to respond to national threats, particularly within the large and diverse Dyfed-Powys policing area.

“I am committed to doing my utmost to ensure any changes to policing are right for the people of Dyfed and Powys,” he said. “Together with my fellow Chief Constables in Wales, we will continue to deliver the best possible service to Welsh communities.”

Further details of the proposed reforms are expected to emerge in the coming weeks, with Welsh forces closely monitoring how any changes may be implemented at a local level.

Crime

Man appears in court charged over death of Blood Bike Wales volunteer

Published

12 hours ago

April 28, 2026

Sarah-Jane Absalom

FAMILY WATCHED FROM PUBLIC GALLERY AS CASE SENT TO CROWN COURT

A PEMBROKESHIRE man has appeared before magistrates charged with causing the death of Blood Bike Wales volunteer Tim Minett by dangerous driving.

Mr Minett was riding a Blood Bike Wales Honda motorcycle on the afternoon of July 2, 2025, when it was involved in a collision with a Volkswagen Crafter van on the A478 between Glandycross and Blaenffos.

He had been transporting blood supplies for the NHS at the time.

This week the van’s driver, Roger King, 57, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court charged with causing Mr Minett’s death by dangerous driving.

King stood in the dock to confirm his name, age and address as members of Mr Minett’s family watched from the public gallery.

Magistrates were told that, due to the seriousness of the allegation, the case can only be dealt with at the Crown Court.

Proceedings will continue at Swansea Crown Court on May 29.

King was released on unconditional bail until that date.c

Crime

Man breached restraining order by entering woman’s home

Published

12 hours ago

April 28, 2026

Sarah-Jane Absalom

COURT HEARS APPLICATION MADE TO DISCHARGE ORDER

A PEMBROKESHIRE man has been sentenced after being found inside a woman’s home despite being banned from contacting her.

Peter Bromley, 51, of Parc y Chwarel, Fishguard, was made subject to a restraining order by Haverfordwest magistrates on February 26.

The order prevented him from having any direct or indirect contact with Rhiannon Bowen.

But on April 8, police received a call claiming Bromley was present at Ms Bowen’s address in Fishguard.

Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court heard that when officers arrived at the property, Ms Bowen initially denied that Bromley was there.

However, when officers gained access to the property, they found Bromley inside the kitchen.

This week Bromley pleaded guilty to breaching the restraining order.

He was legally represented by solicitor Tom Lloyd, who told magistrates that Ms Bowen had recently begun proceedings to have the restraining order removed and discharged.

“Considerable progress has been made by the defendant in various areas of his life,” said Mr Lloyd.

Bromley was fined £200 and ordered to pay £85 court costs and an £80 surcharge.

He must also complete a 12-month alcohol treatment requirement.

Crime

Drink-driver hit bicycle and failed to stop

Published

12 hours ago

April 28, 2026

Sarah Jane Absalom

SENTENCE ADJOURNED FOR PROBATION REPORT

A 23-YEAR-old motorist has been given an interim driving ban after admitting he was over the drink-drive limit when he damaged a bicycle in a collision.

Ajay Mathias was driving his Ford Fiesta along the A478 at Allensbank on April 8 when he collided with the bicycle.

Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court heard that subsequent breath tests showed Mathias had 44 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath. The legal limit is 35.

Mathias, of Min y Llan, Letterston, appeared before magistrates this week where he pleaded guilty to drink-driving and failing to stop after a road accident.

Sentencing was adjourned until April 30, when magistrates will consider a probation report.

Mathias was released on unconditional bail until that date.