Crime
Neyland man jailed for assault and criminal damage in alcohol-fuelled attack
GRAHAM POTTER, 41, of Picton Road in Neyland, labelled a “nasty bully” by Judge Paul Thomas, has been sentenced to 18 weeks in prison for assault and an additional six weeks for criminal damage following an incident on November 23.
Potter appeared at Swansea Crown Court, facing charges related to an altercation with a woman in Neyland. While he denied the strangulation charge, he admitted assault by beating and causing criminal damage, with these pleas being accepted by the prosecution.
The court heard that the incident unfolded as Potter became verbally abusive towards the victim before turning violent. Although he put his hand under the woman’s chin, causing her lip to bleed, the strangulation charge was not upheld as it did not impact her breathing, and she was able to free herself.
Prosecutor James Hartson detailed the confrontation, explaining that after the initial assault, Potter and the victim engaged in a scuffle, resulting in scratches. The violence escalated as Potter smashed the victim’s television and a chair when she left the living room.
When the police were called, Potter admitted to the incident but claimed the victim was the one who “kicked off.” The victim, in a statement read to the court, expressed her disbelief in Potter’s ability to change his ways, describing the two sides to his personality.
Potter had two previous convictions for battery and one for criminal damage against the same victim, along with two jail sentences for breaching domestic violence protection orders.
In his defence, David Singh acknowledged the incident was fuelled by alcohol and that both parties had consumed alcohol. However, Judge Thomas interjected, criticising Potter for complaining about injuries he sustained during the incident, stating, “A woman fought back – how dare she.”
Judge Thomas, addressing Potter directly, remarked, “You, Mr. Potter, are a nasty bully. You assault women when you get drunk.” He cautioned Potter to control his drinking and temper, warning that continued offences would result in longer prison sentences.
Consequently, Potter was sentenced to 18 weeks for assault, an additional six weeks for criminal damage, and was issued a two-year restraining order. A not guilty verdict was entered on the strangulation charge.
Crime
70-year-old denies assault and restraining order breach
A PENSIONER from Pembroke Dock has denied breaching a restraining order and assaulting another man.
Henry Howlett, 70, of Market Street, appeared before Swansea Crown Court today (Friday, May 1), charged with breaching a restraining order and common assault.
The charges relate to an alleged incident on November 9 last year.
Howlett has previously appeared before magistrates in connection with a separate alleged incident involving a neighbour.
Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court previously heard that a dispute arose on July 17 after neighbour Steven Bromhall was washing his car outside his home in Market Street.
Prosecutor Nia James told the court that, as a taxi arrived to collect Howlett, the driver opened the window while passing and Mr Bromhall inadvertently sprayed the taxi driver with water from a hosepipe.
“The taxi driver started remonstrating, and the defendant then began waving his walking stick in the air, towards Mr Bromhall,” she said.
The court heard Mr Bromhall sustained an injury to his back, although it remained unclear whether he had been struck by Howlett’s stick.
Howlett pleaded not guilty to common assault in relation to that incident and was released on unconditional bail. A trial date was set at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court.
At Swansea Crown Court today, His Honour Judge P H Thomas KC asked Howlett whether he was legally represented.
“I can’t find anyone decent, I’m still searching, my lord,” Howlett replied.
When the court attempted to take his pleas, Howlett repeatedly interrupted in an effort to give an explanation, prompting the judge to tell him: “Be quiet, Mr Howlett.”
Howlett then pleaded not guilty to the charges, telling the court: “Definitely not guilty.”
As he left the courtroom, Howlett said: “I will get the truth out and I hope you all hang your heads in shame… this is all fixed.”
A trial date was set for January 14, 2027.
Crime
Crymych parent denies failing to comply with school attendance order
A CRYMYCH parent has denied failing to comply with a school attendance order, a court has heard.
The defendant appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates charged under the Education Act 1996.
The court heard that the defendant is accused of failing, as a parent, to ensure that a child attended school in accordance with the requirements of a School Attendance Order.
It is alleged that after being served with the order, the defendant did not comply within the required 15-day period.
A plea of not guilty was entered.
Magistrates adjourned the case for a case management hearing, which is scheduled to take place at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, May 14.
A reporting restriction remains in force.
Crime
Cockle fisherman fined £3,450 for multiple breaches at protected site
A GOODWICK man has been ordered to pay £3,450 after breaching fishing regulations at a protected cockle fishery.
Richard William Edwards, 45, of Goodwick, appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates charged with a series of offences at the Burry Inlet cockle fishery.
The court heard that Edwards had fished for cockles without a valid permit and breached conditions imposed under fisheries management rules. He was also found to have used an unauthorised vehicle in the fishery area, contrary to restrictions in place to protect the site.
Magistrates were told the offences took place on September 9, 2025, within the Burry Inlet Cockle Fishery, a designated and regulated area subject to strict controls.
Edwards was fined £1,000 and ordered to pay a victim services surcharge of £800, along with costs of £650, bringing the total to £3,450. A collection order was made.
The case was brought under fisheries legislation including the Cockle Fisheries Management and Permitting (Specified Area) (Wales) Order 2024.
The court heard that Edwards had been in breach of a prohibition imposed by the permitting system and had failed to comply with the terms of his permit.
The offences are part of ongoing enforcement efforts to protect the sustainability of cockle stocks and ensure compliance within the fishery.
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