Crime
Police find knuckleduster and drug evidence in coke dealer’s home
SIMON WILLIAMS was at his residence on Woodland Close when officers conducted the raid on March 6. Prosecutor Sian Cutter reported that the police found the knuckleduster on the kitchen table and a cannabis joint on a bedroom cabinet.
“Under the kitchen sink, a black tray contained two bags of what was thought to be cocaine, but was later found to be creatine and bicarbonate of soda,” Cutter explained.
An analysis of Williams’ phone revealed messages dating back to March last year, indicating his involvement in cocaine dealing to about 20 customers. Cutter noted that Williams had sent messages referring to “flake” and “bash” – slang terms for cocaine – and discussed “preparing baggies” and having “a stash”.
In his police interview, Williams denied being a drug dealer, claiming he was only a user of cocaine and cannabis and that the knuckleduster was “for decoration only”.
The court heard that Williams, 41, had 11 previous convictions for 14 offences. He initially admitted being concerned in the supply of cocaine, asserting that he used cocaine to alleviate a head injury and only sold some to friends to fund his usage. However, the prosecution rejected this basis, citing further phone evidence showing he had been dealing to around 20 people.
Williams eventually fully accepted charges of being concerned in the supply of cocaine, as well as possession of cannabis and possession of the knuckleduster.
Defence counsel Dan Griffiths stated, “It’s clear that only an immediate custodial sentence can be imposed.” He added that Williams’ involvement in drugs began many years ago with the use of cannabis and that he was introduced to cocaine by others due to its prevalence in the area. Griffiths described Williams’ dealing as a way to fund his habit, marking an “escalation” in his offending.
Judge Huw Rees sentenced Williams to two years and four months for being concerned in the supply of cocaine. No separate penalties were imposed for the possession of cannabis and the knuckleduster.
Crime
Woman, 70, admits causing death of baby in by dangerous driving
A 70-YEAR-OLD woman has pleaded guilty to causing the tragic death of an eight-month-old baby in a pram by dangerous driving outside a hospital in West Wales.
Bridget Carole Curtis admitted the charge at Swansea Crown Court, where she faced allegations of causing the death of baby Mabli Cariad Hall on 21 June last year. The incident occurred outside Withybush Hospital in Pembrokeshire, where Mabli was being pushed in her pram when a white BMW, driven by Curtis, struck the child near the hospital’s entrance.
Mabli was airlifted to the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff and later transferred to Bristol Royal Hospital for Children. Despite the best efforts of medical staff, she died four days later as a result of severe traumatic brain injuries.
During the court proceedings, Judge Geraint Walters disqualified Curtis from driving and ordered psychiatric and pre-sentence reports to be conducted ahead of her sentencing. Curtis, who had held a full, clean driving licence and had no prior convictions, voluntarily surrendered her licence following the incident.
John Dye, representing Curtis, informed the court of her deep remorse, stating: “She is absolutely devastated to be here.”
Mabli’s family, speaking through a statement issued by Dyfed-Powys Police, expressed the profound grief they continue to endure since the loss of their daughter. “This last year has been the most horrendous time of our lives. Our family life has been changed forever, and to this day we are still trying to come to terms with what has happened. Every day is a day of pain for us, even now, but as parents, we still have to give the love and support our other children need as they are still trying to come to terms with losing their baby sister.”
The family also extended their gratitude to the police and the 2Wish charity, which has provided them with vital support during this tragic period.
Curtis is set to appear at Swansea Crown Court for sentencing on November 22.
Crime
Police make arrest following allegation of sexual assault in Milford Haven
SCENES of crime officers were at The Water Gardens in Milford Haven on Friday (Sept 20) following reports of a sexual assault.
Police said that they have the alleged assailant in custody.
A spokesperson told The Pembrokeshire herald in a statement: “Dyfed-Powys Police received a report of a sexual assault which occurred at around 9pm on Thursday, September 19, in the vicinity of the Rath, Milford Haven.
“One person has been arrested on suspicion of sexual assault and remains in police custody. The victim is being supported by specialist officers.
“Residents will see an increased police presence in the area whilst the investigation continues.”
Crime
Four prison officers arrested following allegations of misconduct at HMP Parc
SOUTH WALES POLICE have confirmed they have arrested four prison officers this morning at HMP Parc Prison in Bridgend, which houses many inmates from Pembrokeshire, following reports of a series of misconduct incidents. The officers, a 23-year-old woman from Bridgend, a 45-year-old man from Pontycymer, a 25-year-old man from Merthyr, and a 35-year-old man from Llanelli, were detained on suspicion of assault and misconduct in public office.
Detective Chief Inspector Dean Taylor stated that the investigation is in its early stages, and officers are working closely with G4S, the private firm managing the prison. The arrests come after concerns were raised on Wednesday, September 18, regarding the conduct of prison staff. Investigations are ongoing.
This arrest occurs just one day after Welsh Social Justice Minister Jane Hutt announced that HMP Parc was “much more stable” following the appointment of a new director in June 2024. The minister’s comments were part of broader praise for recent management improvements in the facility, which has been under scrutiny following a spate of inmate deaths, including four related to drug misuse.
The prison, managed by G4S, has been facing increasing concerns over safety, staff shortages, and allegations of misconduct. Calls for greater oversight have intensified, with today’s arrests further spotlighting the challenges at the institution.
An HMP Parc spokesperson said: “The vast majority of our staff are hardworking and honest. We are absolutely committed to rooting out any wrongdoing. “We take these allegations very seriously and are fully supporting the police with their investigation.”
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