Crime

Man sentenced to 16 weeks for theft from Pembroke Dock Boots

Published

12 months ago

May 15, 2024

RAJ DOMNU, a 27-year-old resident of Scunthorpe, has been sentenced to 16 weeks in prison for his involvement in the theft of items valued at £1,819.53 from Boots the Chemist in Pembroke Dock. The sentence was handed down at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on May 14

Domnu, residing at Frodingham Road, Scunthorpe, appeared in court via live link. The court heard that the theft, which occurred on 13th April 2024, involved a significant degree of planning and was carried out as part of a group. CCTV footage presented during the trial revealed Domnu’s leading role in the offence.

Initially convicted on April 22, Domnu’s case was reopened following an application under section 142 of the Magistrates’ Courts Act 1980. The original sentence imposed on May 13 was set aside, leading to the reimposition of the 16-week custodial sentence due to the serious nature of the offence.

In addition to the prison term, Domnu has been ordered to pay compensation to Boots the Chemist in the amount of £1,819.53. He is also required to pay a surcharge of £154 to fund victim services and £85 in costs to the Crown Prosecution Service. The total financial penalties amount to £2,058.53, which Mr. Domnu must pay by 1st July 2024.

Presiding over the case, Magistrates Mr. Roger James Mathias (Chairman), Mr. David Andrew Fawcett, and Mr. Max Shankland emphasised the severity of the crime, citing the premeditated targeting of high-value items and the organised nature of the theft. The court acknowledged Domnu’s guilty plea in determining the sentence.

Attending solicitor Mike Kelleher of Welch and Co represented Domnu during the proceedings. The court confirmed that the defendant is not currently in custody and no bail remand days were to be counted.

This case underscores the commitment of Dyfed Powys Police and the judiciary to address and penalise organised theft activities severely. The magistrates’ decision reflects the importance of deterring such crimes and ensuring justice for affected businesses.

Crime

Carmarthen man cleared of child sex assault charge

Published

6 hours ago

April 25, 2025

Tom Sinclair

A MAN from Carmarthen has been found not guilty of sexually assaulting a child following a trial at Swansea Crown Court.

Stephen Boswell, aged 32, of Brynhaul Street, had been accused of assaulting a girl by penetration during an alleged incident said to have taken place in St Clears between 2010 and 2013.

Boswell denied the allegation and maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings.

During the trial, the prosecution alleged that Boswell had warned the girl the act “was going to hurt but she would get used to it” before the alleged assault took place. When asked in court whether he had sexually touched the child, Boswell responded: “No, I did not.”

Defence barrister Dyfed Thomas said Boswell had given “a clear and consistent denial” from the outset. He also highlighted inconsistencies in the complainant’s account and differences in the evidence presented by witnesses.

The court was told Boswell had no previous convictions and had fully cooperated with police during their investigation, answering all questions in interview.

After deliberating for approximately 50 minutes, the jury returned a verdict of not guilty.

Judge Paul Thomas KC thanked the jury for their careful consideration of the case. Boswell was discharged from the dock.

Crime

Police appeal after burglary in Milford Haven

Published

1 day ago

April 24, 2025

Tom Sinclair

DYFED-POWYS Police is investigating a domestic burglary which occurred at an address in Precelly Place, Milford Haven, on Wednesday (Apr 23).

Officers hand-delivered letters to residents in the area on Thursday (Apr 24), appealing for information that may assist with the investigation.

No arrests have been made at this stage and enquiries are ongoing.

Crime

St Davids man accused of abuse and coercive control

Published

2 days ago

April 23, 2025

Court Reporter

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.