Crime
Second drug-driving offence in ten years admitted in court

A HAVERFORDWEST motorist has been taken off the road for three years after committing his second drug-driving offence in ten years.
Philip O’Connell, 66, was stopped by officers just after 10.30pm on January 2 as he drove his Audi A4 along the A40 at Scotchwell, Haverfordwest.
Crown Prosecutor Abigail Jackson told Haverfordwest magistrates that this was because officers believed he may have been committing a driving offence.
A roadside drugs swipe proved positive and O’Connell was then asked to provide blood tests for further analyses. These showed he had 446 mcg of benzoylecgonine in his system, which is a derivative of cocaine. The legal threshold limit is 50.
The court was told that in March 2023, O’ Connell, of Abbots Close, Haverfordwest, was convicted of a similar drug-driving offence.
He was legally represented in court by Mr Tom Lloyd.
“He is not a well man at all,” Mr Lloyd told the court.
“He has significant health problems including angina, a quadruple bypass, bowel cancer, ulcers on his feet and he’s also had a stroke and is diabetic. His health is in a terrible state and he’s used cocaine to help him.”
Mr Lloyd added that in March of this year, his partner of 30 years passed away.
“Since her death, he hasn’t coped very well at all. This is a very difficult time for him and he’s really struggling with the grief.”
O’Connell was disqualified from driving for three years. He was fined £120 and ordered to pay £85 court costs and a £48 surcharge.
Crime
Woman ‘high on drugs’ crashes into parked cars in Milford Haven

DYFED-POWYS Police were called to Priory Road, Milford Haven, at around 10:15am on Friday (Feb 14) following reports of a collision involving three vehicles.
A 43-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs.
She has been bailed pending further inquiries.
Two vehicles parked on the side of the road, both belonging to nearby residents, were damaged in the crash.
A witness at the scene said: “I saw the woman. She was absolutely off her face, and lost control of her car. Its really lucky that no one was hurt.”
Crime
Shoplifting concerns spread to Narberth as High Street pharmacy issues warning

BUSINESSES in Narberth are facing mounting challenges as concerns over shoplifting spread beyond Tenby. Narberth High Street Pharmacy has issued a stark warning to local traders after a suspected theft incident, urging vigilance among businesses and the public.
In a statement posted online, the pharmacy said: “Warning to Narberth High Street. Another case of suspected theft. Please watch the video carefully. Items were not left behind after inspecting the shelves. It is extremely difficult for businesses to remain viable when this sort of thing happens.”
The pharmacy, which remains open seven days a week, highlighted the growing difficulties in maintaining a presence in the town due to ongoing retail crime.
Rising shoplifting across Pembrokeshire
The incident in Narberth follows widespread national coverage of shoplifting issues in Tenby, where local businesses have reported thousands of pounds in losses due to theft. The situation has drawn attention to a concerning trend across Pembrokeshire, where independent shops and pharmacies—already struggling with rising costs—are finding it increasingly difficult to operate.
According to the latest crime data, shoplifting offences have been rising in Wales, mirroring a nationwide trend. The Office for National Statistics reported a 23% increase in retail thefts across England and Wales in the past year. In Dyfed-Powys, shoplifting cases have surged by 12%, with many small businesses feeling the pressure.
Call for action
Narberth traders are now calling for more proactive policing and stronger deterrents to tackle the issue. While CCTV and security measures have been introduced by some businesses, many feel they are left to handle the problem themselves, with limited police resources available.
The pharmacy urged the community to assist in identifying the individual involved in the latest suspected theft, stating:
“If anyone has any info on this individual, please share so we can follow up with the police.”
With the problem now affecting multiple towns in Pembrokeshire, there is growing pressure for authorities to implement stronger measures to support businesses and protect livelihoods.
Crime
Pembroke Dock Police warn of penalties for illegal e-scooter use

PEMBROKE DOCK police have issued a warning about the legal status of e-scooters, reminding residents that they are classed as motor vehicles under the Road Traffic Act. This means they are subject to the same requirements as cars and motorcycles, including the need for a licence, insurance, and tax.
Currently, it is not possible to obtain insurance for privately owned e-scooters, making their use on roads or in public spaces illegal. Those caught riding an e-scooter without a valid licence or insurance could face penalties, including:
⚠️ A £300 fine and six penalty points for riding without insurance.
⚠️ A fine of up to £100 and three to six penalty points for not having the correct licence.
Offenders may also be penalised for:
❌ Riding on pavements.
❌ Using a mobile phone or handheld device while riding.
❌ Ignoring red lights.
❌ Riding under the influence of alcohol, which carries the same penalties as drink-driving a car, including court-imposed fines, a driving ban, or even imprisonment.
Police are urging residents to be aware of the rules and avoid using e-scooters illegally to prevent fines and legal action.
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