News
Darryl Evans sentenced to eight years for defrauding over half a million pounds
IN A REMARKABLE hearing at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (Jan 5), Darryl Evans, 62, of Green Court Crescent, Tenby, faced the consequences of his deceitful actions. Described by Judge Paul Thomas KC as the most “fundamentally dishonest” individual he’s encountered in his extensive 40-year career, Evans was sentenced to a total of eight years in prison.
The case, which lasted nearly three weeks, culminated this week in Evans being found guilty of 26 counts of fraud and one count of theft. The jury, after approximately two hours and 45 minutes of deliberation, returned guilty verdicts on all 27 charges.
Evans’ fraudulent activities spanned from 2013 to 2020, during which he deceitfully obtained over half a million pounds. Masquerading as a financial advisor, Evans lured friends and acquaintances into a so-called “Ponzi scheme,” convincing them to invest large sums in fictitious schemes for their supposed benefit. However, in reality, he was unemployed and misused these funds for his personal expenses.
The deception unraveled in 2018 when the victims noticed the absence of returns on their ‘investments,’ leading to police investigations. It was then revealed that Evans had repaid some of the money to continue his charade, yet the actual losses amounted to over £377,000.
One of the most shocking aspects of his crimes included appointing himself as the executor of a will and diverting the money directly into his bank account. The prosecutor, Robin Rouch, highlighted that this and one of the fraud charges occurred post Evans’ initial arrest.
Victims, many of whom considered Evans a friend, were left financially and emotionally devastated. Their testimonies, as summarised by Mr. Rouch, spoke of savings and pensions lost, and a profound sense of betrayal. Some victims, as per Mr. Rouch’s statement, suffered severe anxiety, with at least one being hospitalised multiple times.
Defending Evans, Jim Davis acknowledged his client’s consistent denial of guilt throughout the proceedings. He emphasised Evans’ previously unblemished character and noted that these offenses were his first at a late stage in his life.
Judge Thomas, in his sentencing remarks, underscored the egregious nature of Evans’ actions. He highlighted the cynical and ruthless manner in which Evans exploited the trust of people, many of whom could ill-afford to lose their money. Particularly striking was the case of two victims in their 70s, who were led to believe they had become millionaires through investments in “algorithms,” only to find out they had been defrauded.
In addition to his prison sentence, Evans’ case will be subjected to the Proceeds of Crime Act proceedings to determine the fate of the embezzled funds. Judge Thomas also took a moment to commend the investigative efforts of officer Dawn Jones and Dyfed-Powys Police’s Economic Crime Team manager Paul Callard for their dedication in bringing Evans’ full range of criminal activities to light.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the potential ramifications of fraudulent schemes and the importance of vigilance in financial dealings. The Swansea Crown Court’s ruling not only delivers justice to the victims but also reinforces the legal system’s commitment to upholding integrity and trust.
A PEMBROKE man has pleaded not guilty to drug-driving following an incident last summer.
Sean Agnew, aged 58, of Vetch Close, appeared at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on Thursday (Apr 3) for a further case management hearing.
He is accused of driving a Nissan Qashqai on Hywel Way, Pembroke, on August 1, 2024, while unfit through drugs. It is alleged that a blood test showed a level of Benzoylecgonine — a breakdown product of cocaine — at more than 92 micrograms per litre of blood, exceeding the specified legal limit.
The charge is brought under Section 5A(1)(a) and (2) of the Road Traffic Act 1988.
Agnew entered a not guilty plea on February 4 and has been released on unconditional bail.
He is due to appear again at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on Thursday (Apr 10) at 10:00am for a further case management hearing before District Judge J Layton. The case is expected to last 20 minutes.
Ella Passey appeared for the prosecution on behalf of CPS Wales (South West).
FIREFIGHTERS were called to a house fire in the early hours of Wednesday (Apr 2) after a blaze broke out in the attic of a three-storey home in north Pembrokeshire.
Crews from Cardigan, Crymych, Milford Haven, Newcastle Emlyn and Haverfordwest fire stations attended the incident in Bridell, near Cilgerran, following a 999 call at 6:03am.
Upon arrival, firefighters discovered a fire had taken hold in the roof and attic space.
Crews used three hose reel jets, three 70-metre hoses, a turntable ladder appliance, a short-extension ladder, six sets of breathing apparatus and various small gear to bring the fire under control.
All occupants of the property were accounted for and no injuries were reported.
An inspection of the property revealed significant damage to the attic and roof structure.
Firefighters left the scene at 12:47pm.
Cover pic:
Damage to roof: The fire left the attic area of the home badly damaged (Pic: Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service).
MILFORD WATERFRONT will be bursting with Easter fun this April as it hosts a variety of free, family-friendly activities to celebrate the season.
Over the weekend of Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 April, a spring-themed market will take place from 10:00am to 4:00pm, offering seasonal treats, crafts, and local produce. Children can also meet Rascal the Easter Bunny, who will be making a special walkabout appearance on Saturday (Apr 5) from midday until 2:30pm.
On Wednesday 16 April, families are invited to visit Milford Haven Museum to discover the town’s rich maritime history. Afterwards, youngsters can collect a free Easter trail map and set off on a chocolate-themed treasure hunt around the waterfront’s shops and attractions. Completed trails can be exchanged for a small Easter egg. More details are available at www.milfordwaterfront.co.uk.
Throughout the Easter season, visitors can indulge in seasonal delights from a range of independent businesses, including artisan chocolates at Trwffl and Dilly’s, or natural skincare gifts from Akamuti. The waterfront is also home to a selection of boutique clothing and gift shops—perfect for finding something special this spring.
Adventurous visitors can make the most of the season by getting out on the water, with Milford Beach Activity Centre offering stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking experiences. And for those looking to dine out, the waterfront’s many restaurants will be unveiling their new spring menus, featuring locally sourced seafood and family favourites with marina views.
Stay by the sea this Easter
Right at the heart of the action is Tŷ Hotel Milford Waterfront, which is offering a special Easter Escapes bed and breakfast deal. Guests can enjoy on-site family activities such as oversized board games, cinema screenings, and an Easter trail. Standard rooms for two start from £89 per night, with family rooms from £131 per night, including breakfast. Offer valid for stays between 4–27 April. Book at www.ty-hotels.com.
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