Crime
West Wales cop charged with sexual assault by penetration

IT HAS been confirmed by Dyfed-Powys Police this evening (Feb 7) that one of their officers has been charged with the offence of sexual assault by penetration.
DC Sam Garside, based in the Ceredigion division, has been suspended from duties since July 2023 when it was reported that he had allegedly committed an offence while off duty in December 2021.
The 30-year-old will appear at Swansea Magistrates’ Court on March 6, 2024, The Herald understands.
Senior investigating officer Huw Davies told this newspaper: “This is a serious allegation, and I recognise it will cause concern among our communities.
“I would like to give an assurance that swift action was taken when the allegation was made, and we now await the result of the criminal justice process.
“Legal proceedings are now underway, and it is important to avoid further commentary while this process takes place.”
In UK law, “sexual assault by penetration” is a criminal offense that falls under the Sexual Offences Act 2003. This offense involves intentionally penetrating the vagina, anus, or mouth of another person with a part of the body (such as a penis or finger) or with an object, without their consent.
Consent is a crucial element in such cases, and any sexual activity without clear and voluntary consent is considered a criminal act. The law recognises that individuals have the right to control their own bodies and engage in consensual sexual activities.
The Sexual Offences Act 2003 categorizes various sexual offenses and establishes the legal framework for addressing such crimes.
The severity of penalties for sexual assault by penetration can vary depending on factors such as the degree of harm caused, the age of the victim, and any aggravating circumstances.
Legal consequences may include imprisonment, fines, and registration as a sex offender.
Crime
St Davids man accused of abuse and coercive control

A MAN from St Davids is facing serious allegations of domestic abuse, including physical assault and coercive control, spanning more than two years.
Ryan Bowen, aged 44, of Nun Street, appeared in court accused of controlling and abusive behaviour towards his partner between August 2019 and January 2022.
Bowen is alleged to have physically assaulted the woman by slamming a car door on her leg, punching her in the ribs, and pushing her. The court also heard he verbally abused her, belittled her as a mother, and threatened to kill her.
It is further alleged he controlled her finances, dictated what she wore, where she could sleep, and where she was allowed to work.
Prosecutors also claimed he threatened to take her children away and told her he would kill himself if she ever left him.
Bowen has denied the charges.
Judge Paul Thomas KC asked defence barrister Dyfed Thomas whether his client would consider pleading guilty to any lesser charges. Mr Thomas responded that Bowen was “adamant” the allegations were untrue and would not be changing his plea.
A trial has been listed for December 9. Bowen was granted bail until that date.
Crime
Motorbike stolen from roadside near Brecon

POLICE are investigating the theft of a motorbike from the A470 near Storey Arms, close to Brecon.
The Lexmoto LXR, described as blue and silver in colour, was awaiting recovery when it was stolen sometime between 9:00pm on Tuesday (Apr 8) and 11:00am on Wednesday (Apr 9).
Officers are appealing to anyone who was travelling along the A470 during that time and may have seen anything suspicious.
Dash cam footage could be especially helpful to the investigation.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Dyfed-Powys Police via:
| Online form
| 101@dyfed-powys.police.uk
| 101
Quote reference: 25*307219
Crime
Haverfordwest man admits assault after woman withdraws support

A HAVERFORDWEST man has admitted assaulting a woman following an incident in the town earlier this year.
Kieran Vaughan, aged 37, of Caradoc Place, appeared at Swansea Crown Court charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm in connection with an incident on March 8.
While Vaughan denied the more serious charge, he pleaded guilty to a lesser charge of assault by beating.
Prosecutor Georgia Donohue told the court: “That’s acceptable to the Crown because the complainant has withdrawn her support.”
Judge Geraint Walters adjourned the case for a pre-sentence report. Vaughan will be sentenced on May 15.
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