A MAN has been charged with possession of an offensive weapon in a private place and common assault after an incident in the quiet village of St Dogmaels, Pembrokeshire.

The incident unfolded on Monday, 16 September, when locals reported a significant police presence, including armed officers, dog units, and a police helicopter, arriving in the typically tranquil village.

Dyfed-Powys Police issued a statement that evening, confirming the ‘unusual police presence’ was due to an ‘isolated incident’ that had been ‘safely resolved’. However, two police patrol cars remained stationed in the area late into the evening to provide reassurance to concerned residents.

Today, Wednesday, 25 September, Dyfed-Powys Police released further details about the incident. The force confirmed they had responded to reports of an assault in which the victim had sustained injuries.

A police spokesperson said: “Dyfed-Powys Police received a report of an assault on St Dogmaels Road, Cardigan, on Monday 16 September 2024 at approximately 1.55pm. The victim sustained minor injuries.”

Following their investigation, officers arrested and charged a 52-year-old man with possession of an offensive weapon in a private place and common assault in relation to the incident.

The heightened police activity in the usually peaceful village left residents on edge, but the police presence late into the night was intended to reassure the local community that the situation was under control.

The man charged in connection with this incident is expected to appear in court at a later date.

Further updates will be provided as the case progresses.

TEN years ago, Karen could not have imagined spending her days working in a marketing office and her evenings executing drug warrants with Dyfed-Powys Police.

Now, as she prepares to mark a decade of service as a Special Constable, Karen’s journey exemplifies how this distinctive role enables individuals to experience frontline policing while balancing a busy professional life.

Karen’s interest in the role was sparked when, a decade ago, she came across an article in a local newspaper detailing the thrilling experiences of another Special Constable. Enthralled by the challenges and excitement of policing, she took the leap and joined the Special Constabulary.

One of the aspects of the role that Karen enjoys most is taking part in search warrants. She explained, “The careful planning and coordination involved create a sense of anticipation and focus. I love being part of such organised operations, which for a police officer, can feel like stepping into an action movie.”

Karen recalls a particularly intense moment during a high-stakes drugs warrant when she discovered a sports bag stuffed with cash, neatly bound with elastic bands. This significant find eventually led to the criminal conviction of an individual for possession of Class A drugs with intent to supply.

While there is undoubtedly a surface level of excitement in policing, Karen notes the deeper fulfilment that comes from knowing she is playing a key role in addressing serious crime, especially drug-related offences in her own community. “There’s a real satisfaction in knowing that you’re making a difference,” she said.

Becoming a Special Constable felt natural to Karen. As an outgoing and sociable individual, the role allowed her to make use of her strong interpersonal skills, and she has built lasting friendships, many of whom she met during her initial training and who are still serving in Dyfed-Powys today.

After two years of service, Karen was promoted to Sergeant, now leading a small team of Special Constables in Pembrokeshire. “The role is a stark contrast to my marketing career, which is mostly office-based,” Karen explained. “It has allowed me to engage directly with the community, meeting and talking with people from all walks of life.”

“It’s a challenging role that can often test your limits, but that’s what makes it so rewarding. If you’re looking to expand your skills, build confidence, and give something back to the community, there’s no career quite like it. I wholeheartedly recommend becoming a Special Constable. It truly offers the best of both worlds.”

For those interested in taking on a new challenge or exploring a life in uniform, Dyfed-Powys Police is currently accepting applications for Special Constables. Information on eligibility criteria, the application and recruitment process, and frequently asked questions can be found on their website.

Dyfed-Powys Police will also be holding an online recruitment event for prospective applicants:

30th September, 7pm – Online (via MS Teams).

THE second breach of a court restraining order has resulted in a final warning for Silverdale Lodge resident Graham Potter.

On September 20, Potter was found drinking in a children’s play park in Johnston with Gemma Horton, despite being subject to a restraining order preventing contact with her.

Potter was sentenced to 18 weeks in custody, suspended for 12 months. He must also carry out 15 rehabilitation activity days and pay a £154 court surcharge and £85 costs.