News

Castlemartin soldier demoted after drink-driving incident

Published

3 years ago

August 18, 2023

A SERVING soldier from Castlemartin, Adam Hatton, 33, has faced demotion after crashing into a telegraph pole whilst under the influence.

The incident unfolded on the morning of 29th July, on the road linking Merrion to Castlemartin. Shortly after 7am, police were called to the scene where a Ford Transit van had collided with the telegraph pole, leaving the road obstructed. The impact caused the pole to topple, inflicting substantial damage to the vehicle.

Hatton was subsequently found in a friend’s car, with Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan suggesting he was asleep at the time. This detail was later contested by Hatton’s solicitor.

Upon conducting a breathalyser test, Hatton was revealed to have an alcohol concentration of 54 mcg in his breath, considerably over the legal limit of 35 mcg. Ms. Vaughan pointed to Hatton’s confession of drinking until 1am the previous evening, unaware that he’d still be over the limit come morning.

In court, Mr. Michael Kelleher, acting as Hatton’s legal representation, shed light on the grave repercussions Hatton now faces. “He’s grappling with ramifications in the civilian court, and additionally, military sanctions,” Kelleher stated. As a result of his actions, Hatton will experience a reduction in his salary by £8,000 and will be ineligible for promotions during his driving ban.

Kelleher further refined the narrative surrounding Hatton’s state when found, arguing that Hatton “was merely resting, understandably rattled by the incident,” contradicting earlier claims of him being asleep.

Drawing attention to Hatton’s exemplary military track record, Kelleher introduced a character reference penned by Hatton’s commanding officer, who was present. He stressed Hatton’s unblemished military record and the esteem he holds within the ranks.

After deliberation, the magistrates imposed a £500 fine on Hatton, along with a £200 victim surcharge and £85 in legal fees. Hatton was also banned from driving for a span of 12 months.

Crime

Four deny murder of Caerphilly teenager

Published

50 minutes ago

March 21, 2026

Tom Sinclair

FOUR people have pleaded not guilty to the murder of a 17-year-old boy.

Ricardo Elliot, aged 27, Connor Palfrey, aged 24, Elexi Manny, aged 24, and Georgie Mears, aged 18, appeared before Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court on Friday (March 20), where each denied killing Tristan Shae Kerr.

Emergency services were called to a property in Abertridwr, Caerphilly, at around 5:45pm on Wednesday (Feb 5) following reports that a teenage boy had suffered serious injuries. Despite efforts, Tristan was pronounced dead at the scene.

The court heard that the teenager is alleged to have been attacked with a so-called “zombie knife” measuring approximately nine to ten inches in length.

During the hearing, the four defendants spoke only to confirm their personal details and enter their pleas.

A trial is due to begin on August 3 and is expected to last around six weeks. A further pre-trial review has been scheduled for July 24.

All four defendants were remanded in custody.

Paying tribute after his death, Tristan’s family described him as a “deeply loved son, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend.”

They said he was quick-witted, with a love for motorbikes and adventure, adding that he had a natural energy that lit up every room and drew people towards him.

Crime

Broad Haven man remanded in custody over sexual harm prevention order breach

Published

20 hours ago

March 20, 2026

Court Reporter

Defendant admitted using Xbox without informing police as required under court order

ANTHONY COOMBES, aged 26, of Sand Banks, Broad Haven, appeared before Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on Thursday (Mar 20) charged with breaching a sexual harm prevention order.

The court heard that between February 26 and March 19, 2026, at Haverfordwest, Coombes repeatedly breached the order by using an Xbox device without informing police within three days, as required.

The offences relate to a sexual harm prevention order imposed at Swansea Crown Court on October 20, 2021.

Coombes indicated guilty pleas to the offences at the first hearing.

Magistrates committed the case to Swansea Crown Court for sentence.

He was remanded in custody ahead of the next hearing, which is due to take place at 9:00am on Friday, April 3, at Swansea Crown Court.

The court refused bail on the grounds that he was likely to offend, citing the nature and seriousness of the offences and his previous record and character.

A pre-sentence report was ordered.