News

Bag thief: ‘It was a mad blurred adrenaline thing – I was stupid’

Published

11 years ago

November 4, 2014

A TWELVE month community order was given to a man from Haverfordwest, who stole a handbag containing cash, medications and bank documents.

Daryl Matthew Stephens, aged 22 of Keats Grove pleaded guilty to the charge. Prosecutor, Ellie Morgan told the court: “The victim in this case had gone to McDonald’s in Haverfordwest with her family at 5.15pm. She had a grey shoulder bag with her and put it under the table. When she left, she forgot her bag and left it under the table. A couple of hours later, she realised she had forgotten her bag and returned to McDonald’s. It was not under the table where she had left it and it had not been handed in.

CCTV was checked and a male and female were responsible for the missing bag.” She then went on to explain: “Inside the handbag was a white purse containing £300 and £80 in Tesco vouchers, personal documents and medication. Officers attended and viewed the CCTV. They managed to identify the two people and spoke to Stephens on August 28. No stolen property was found at his home address, but the purse was found, but it was damaged. “The female was given a caution and there is a compensation claim of £438.98. Stephens said he had been in McDonald’s and noticed a handbag on the floor.

He and his partner had a look through and discarded things they didn’t want on their way home. He accepted he played a part in the theft and said they wanted to hand the bag in, but they wanted the money and therefore knew they’d be caught if they took the money and handed the bag in. Stephens said: “It was a mad blurred adrenaline thing, I was stupid.” Defence solicitor, Michael Kelleher said: “It was a spur of the moment. His partner is equally at fault and she shared the money that was in the bag. The rest of the belongings were left in the bag and discarded in a hedge.

Stephens took police to look for it in the area it was discarded, but they could not find it. His partner has been punished by the system, and I propose that due to him playing only a part in the offence he should only pay part of the compensation. He said he was short of money and they used it to buy nappies”. Magistrates imposed a 12 month community order with a supervision requirement. He must also compete 150 hours of unpaid work, pay the full compensation of £438.98, £60 victim surcharge and £85 cost.

Charity

Communities across Pembrokeshire unite in memory of Sally Allen

Published

1 minute ago

December 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

THE TRAGIC loss of Sally Allen in 2025 sent shockwaves through communities across Pembrokeshire and beyond. Deeply loved and widely respected, Sally was an integral part of the agricultural and equestrian world. Her sudden passing left an immeasurable sense of loss for her family, friends, and the many organisations and communities she was part of.

In the days and weeks following the accident, people from across the county came together in an extraordinary show of compassion, solidarity and remembrance. Sandy Bear Children’s Bereavement Charity was on hand to offer guidance and support to communities affected by the tragedy, helping individuals and families navigate the early and often overwhelming stages of grief.

Support in Sally’s memory has been widespread, with particular strength coming from the agricultural and equestrian sectors that meant so much to her. Young Farmers Clubs across Pembrokeshire organised fundraising evenings and gatherings, creating spaces for people to come together, share memories, and acknowledge the profound loss felt by so many.

On Monday 15 December, a deeply moving moment of remembrance took place as Sally’s family came together with David Evans, Chief Executive Officer of Clynderwen and Cardiganshire Farmers Ltd (CCF), along with further representatives from CCF and Sandy Bear Children’s Bereavement Charity. The occasion marked the launch of a specially commissioned design on one of CCF’s lorries.

The vehicle, N12 CCF, now proudly carries sunflowers – a flower Sally loved – alongside her name, celebrating her life while also featuring the Sandy Bear logo. This thoughtful tribute was warmly received by the Allen family and ensures that Sally’s memory, kindness and impact will continue to be carried far and wide.

CCF is deeply rooted in the landscapes and communities Sally cared about. At the launch, Mr Evans announced that CCF will make a donation to Sandy Bear aligned with the miles travelled by N12 CCF throughout January, transforming everyday journeys into a lasting legacy of support.

In addition, a JustGiving page will remain open until the end of January, allowing individuals and organisations to continue honouring Sally’s memory by supporting Sandy Bear alongside the CCF fundraiser.

Sandy Bear Children’s Bereavement Charity supports children and young people across Wales who are grieving the death of someone important to them. Being present at times of profound loss, and helping communities process grief with care and compassion, is at the heart of the charity’s work.

Sally Allen’s life touched many. The response to her passing has shown not only the depth of love felt for her, but the strength of communities when they come together in kindness. Through these acts of remembrance and generosity, her legacy will continue to make a difference to others during their darkest moments.

Crime

Haverfordwest man denies historic rape charges involving underage girl

Published

49 minutes ago

December 17, 2025

Luke Sinclair

Trial listed at Cardiff Crown Court for 2027

A HAVERFORDWEST man has denied a series of historic sexual offences against an underage girl and is due to stand trial at Cardiff Crown Court in 2027.

Lee Mahagan, aged 52, of High Street, Haverfordwest, has pleaded not guilty to four counts of rape and two counts of engaging in penetrative sexual activity with a child.

The charges relate to allegations involving a girl aged between 13 and 15, which are said to have occurred in Cardiff between 2009 and 2010.

The court was told that the case is expected to take around five days when it goes before a jury. A trial date has been set for January 25, 2027.

Mahagan was granted conditional bail by Judge Hywel James following a hearing at Cardiff Crown Court.

The defendant is represented by David Pinnell, while Daniel Jones is appearing for the prosecution.

Crime

Teenager charged following rape allegation at Saundersfoot nightclub

Published

3 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Staff Writer

Incident reported at Sands Nightclub in early hours of Sunday

DYFED-POWYS POLICE is investigating an allegation of rape following an incident reported at Sands Nightclub in Saundersfoot in the early hours of Sunday (Dec 14).

An 18-year-old man was arrested after officers were called to the venue, which is a popular late-night spot in the seaside village. The allegation relates to events said to have taken place during the early hours of the morning.

Joshua Probert, aged 18, has since been charged with one count of rape. He has been remanded in custody and is due to appear before Swansea Crown Court on Thursday (Dec 18).

The complainant is entitled to lifelong anonymity under law, and no further details about the allegation can be reported at this stage.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that enquiries are ongoing. Officers are understood to have carried out initial investigative work shortly after the report was made, including speaking to witnesses.

Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is urged to contact Dyfed-Powys Police.

Anyone affected by sexual assault or rape can contact the 24/7 Rape & Sexual Abuse Support Line, run by Rape Crisis England & Wales, on 0808 500 2222. Calls are free and confidential.