Crime
70-Year-old woman in court over death baby Mabli

A 70-YEAR-OLD woman has appeared in court charged with causing the death of an eight-month-old baby girl following a tragic crash outside Withybush Hospital last year.
Bridget Curtis, of Begelly, Pembrokeshire, stood before Llanelli Magistrates’ Court, facing a serious charge of causing death by dangerous driving.
The charge stems from a devastating incident that took place on June 21, 2023, when Curtis, behind the wheel of her BMW 520D, was involved in a collision that led to the death of Mabli Cariad Hall, an eight-month-old baby girl.
During the brief court appearance, Curtis, represented by John Dye of 3D Solicitors Ltd, only spoke to confirm her name, date of birth, and address. She did not enter a plea. The case has been committed to Swansea Crown Court, with a plea and trial preparation hearing scheduled for September 20, 2024. Curtis was granted bail until her next court appearance.
The tragic event unfolded just outside Withybush General Hospital in Haverfordwest. Emergency services were called to the scene at approximately 11:50am, responding to reports of a serious collision. The crash involved four people, including the infant, a pedestrian, the driver (Curtis), and a passenger in the vehicle. The severity of the crash prompted an immediate and extensive emergency response.
Mabli Cariad Hall was airlifted from the scene to the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff before being transferred to Bristol Royal Hospital for Children. Despite the best efforts of medical teams, Mabli succumbed to her injuries. An inquest later revealed that the cause of death was severe traumatic brain injuries, a tragic outcome that has left the community reeling.
In the months following the accident, Mabli’s family has endured an unimaginably difficult period. In a statement released by Dyfed-Powys Police, the Hall family expressed their deep gratitude towards the police for their diligent handling of the case. “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,” they said.
The family also acknowledged the support they received from 2Wish, a charity that offers assistance to families who have experienced the sudden loss of a child. They described reaching this stage of the legal process as a significant step forward, though they remain aware of the challenges that lie ahead.
“We are grateful that we have now reached this stage of the process. We understand we have more to come, but this is the biggest step forward we’ve had since June last year,” the family noted.
The family’s statement also extended thanks to friends, family, and the broader community who have supported them during this challenging time. “We will never forget the love and support shown to us and for the memory of our precious angel, Mabli Cariad,” they said.
The charge of causing death by dangerous driving is a serious one under Section 1 of the Road Traffic Act 1988. The case’s transfer to Swansea Crown Court indicates the gravity of the alleged offence and the complexities involved in the legal proceedings.
Crime
Carmarthen man cleared of child sex assault charge

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

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

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.
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