News

Charges of cruelty to animals vehemently denied in Swansea Crown Court

Published

10 months ago

July 22, 2023

A MAN and his daughter stand accused of causing unnecessary suffering to animals at a farm in Pembrokeshire. Richard Scarfe, 42, and his daughter Brogan Scarfe, 24, faced charges in relation to dogs, pigs, and sheep allegedly mistreated on the Ridgeway farm in Lamphey.

Richard and Brogan Scarfe denied the offences, relating to animals being kept on land at the Ridgeway in Lamphey between January 25 last year and this April 19.

The defendants’ legal representatives presented their arguments to challenge the allegations. Defence barrister Alycia Carpanini, who represented Brogan Scarfe, vehemently stated that her client denied any responsibility for the animals’ suffering. According to Carpanini, a veterinarian had visited the farm on the day before the animals were seized and reported no issues, potentially bolstering the defence’s case.

Hywel Davies, appearing on behalf of Richard Scarfe, asserted that his client was not involved in the care of the animals. Davies pointed out that Richard Scarfe had been previously banned from keeping animals and that it was his daughter who had taken on the role of caretaker.

Judge Paul Thomas questioned the defence’s stance, seeking clarification on whether the defendant was placing blame solely on his daughter for any potential neglect. Mr. Davies refuted this interpretation, emphasising that Richard Scarfe did not lay the blame on his daughter but rather denied any involvement in the animals’ care.

During the proceedings, the prosecution painted a grim picture of the consequences of the alleged animal mistreatment. The seized animals were now under the care of the public, incurring significant expenses. The current bill stood at an astounding £28,000, putting a strain on public resources.

The accused were granted unconditional bail, with a trial date set for February 12, providing sufficient time for both sides to prepare their evidence and arguments.

Crime

Jailed for breaching domestic violence protection order

Published

3 hours ago

May 19, 2024

Court Reporter

AMY Woolston, 20, of Vine Road, Johnston, Pembrokeshire, has been sentenced to six weeks in prison for breaching a domestic violence protection order.

On 15th May 2024, Woolston was found in the company of a man in a flat at The Farmers Arms, Market Street, Whitland, in violation of the order issued by Llanelli Magistrates Court on 10th May 2024.

The court deemed the offence serious due to the proximity to the original order and a previous breach involving the same victim. Woolston was not in custody and appeared unrepresented in court. Her total sentence length is 18 weeks.

The case was dealt with in Haverfordwest court on May 16.

News

Lease of former Newcastle Emlyn Courthouse approved

Published

4 hours ago

May 19, 2024

Tom Sinclair

Carmarthenshire County Council’s Cabinet has this week approved the transfer of the former Newcastle Emlyn Courthouse to Newcastle Emlyn Town Council.

The Cabinet approved a 21-year lease which will facilitate the Town Council’s plan to bring the premises back into use.

The future of the former Courthouse has been considered in detail, with the Town Council carrying out a public consultation on the community’s requirements, and the sites potential contribution to those local needs. The outcome of the consultation suggested that the local community wanted the building to be retained, refurbished and transformed into a multi- use centre.

Newcastle Emlyn Town Council intend to submit an application for funding from the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund [UKSPF] in order to pay for the necessary restoration work. The funding is conditional upon the Town Council having a lease of sufficient term on the premises.

Carmarthenshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Resources, Cllr Alun Lenny commented: “The building as it currently stands is not needed for further use by the County Council and has been empty for some time. I welcome the Cabinet’s decision to approve the transfer of this asset to Newcastle Emlyn Town Council. The funding will ensure that the building is being used for the benefit of the town’s residents.

“This decision is in line with Carmarthenshire County Council’s Wellbeing Objectives: Enabling our communities and environment to be healthy, safe, and prosperous (Prosperous Communities).”

Crime

Teenagers fled from Pembroke RFC after setting spectators stand on fire

Published

4 hours ago

May 19, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ON MONDAY (may 16) between the hours of 16:25 and 17:00, the spectators stand of Pembroke Rugby Football Club was deliberately set on fire, police have said.

Two males, aged between 17-19, fled from the club grounds immediately after the smoke plumes were noticed.

Both males were on dark framed push bikes and wearing dark coloured hooded jumpers.

Officers are asking if anyone who has any information or has witnessed anyone acting suspiciously in the area around these times, is asked to contact police either online at: https://bit.ly/DPPContactOnline, by emailing [email protected], or by calling 101. If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech impaired text the non-emergency number on 07811 311 908.

Quote reference: 24000446140

Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555111, or visiting crimestoppers-uk.org.