News

Prosecution case was ‘absurd’

Published

9 years ago

December 1, 2014

THE CASE of a Neyland man could not be proved beyond any reasonable doubt at court on Monday (Nov 3). Richard Davies, aged 69, of John Street, was accused of burglary other than a dwelling and theft from the person of another. He pleaded not guilty on August 8 and has maintained his innocence ever since. The second charge of theft was dropped by the Magistrates as they found he would have no case to answer. The matter dates back to 2012 when Richard’s neighbour, Stephen Thomas, went away for a couple of weeks.

Mr Thomas had his shed broken into during those weeks and a number of things were taken from it. Richard Davies was alleged to have stolen a clamp and a Stanley knife from the shed. CCTV from Mr Thomas’ home showed Davies climbing over his fence and walking up to his shed. The footage shows that Davies was in the shed for almost fifteen minutes and he says he was securing the door so nobody else could get in. After he comes out of the shed he has a clamp in his hand and then picks up a Stanley knife which was on the ground.

Davies added that the clamp was found outside of the garage and said he had no need for it. He then takes the items back to his own shed and places them there for safe keeping. Mr Thomas returned and reported to the police that a number of items were missing and he submitted CCTV footage to them. Asked in court why he did not call the police when he found out the shed had been broken into, Davies said: “That was the biggest mistake I made, I wish I had.” The police came round on February 2 2013, to speak to Mr Davies and he handed over the items that he had taken from the shed. Mr Thomas said that he had seen Davies and his wife in the weeks after the theft but Davies said that they had not seen each other.

Defending Patrick Llewlyn said: “The defence case is very strong, there is nothing that undermines Mr Davies’ account. He gave his account before seeing the CCTV and it fits. He is of good character and he is less likely not to tell the truth, he is a man of impeccable clean character. The prosecution case is quite absurd, in full view of a CCTV camera to steal two quite random items to the value of £30 when there are more items available – the prosecution case does not make sense. In hindsight, we all regret things, this was merely a mistake, it was a garage, less serious than normal and the house had been all but abandoned.

The charges don’t make sense; he accepts he picked up the Stanley knife. The property is infrequently attended, Thomas had moved out of the property and he did not see them until after the police officer had attended his house. Considering all that the court cannot be sure that meets the threshold of burglary.” The Magistrates agreed with the defence and agreed to dismiss the case.

News

Tigers second division Cup Champions

Published

6 hours ago

May 1, 2024

Herald Sport

In a thrilling Pembrokeshire Division Two Cup final under the floodlights of Bridge Meadow Stadium, fans witnessed an epic battle between Monkton Swifts reserves and Johnston. Despite Monkton Swifts reserves being touted as favorites, Johnston proved their mettle from the outset.

The game kicked off with a burst of energy as Johnston’s center half, Craig Bendall, seized an early opportunity to put his team ahead just ten minutes into the match. However, Monkton Swifts’ prolific Scotsman, Davis, swiftly responded with an equalizer, showcasing the resilience of the favourites.

The momentum shifted again when the dynamic duo of Alfie and Scott Crawford of Johnston orchestrated a beautifully executed goal, putting Johnston back in the lead at 2-1.

As the game progressed, Monkton Swifts brought in reinforcements, including Ben Steele, to regain control. Their efforts paid off when Jordan Kilby leveled the score at 2-2 with just under 20 minutes remaining.

But the Crawfords had other plans. Combining once more, Scott provided the assist for Alfie, who coolly finished to put Johnston ahead once again.

With time running out, Monkton Swifts launched a relentless onslaught in search of an equalizer. However, Johnston’s defense held firm, defying the odds to clinch the Division Two Cup title in a memorable victory.

The match showcased the passion and determination of both teams, with Johnston emerging as deserving champions in a fiercely contested final at Bridge Meadow Stadium.

Crime

Police investigating attempted burglary at Haverfordwest shop

Published

10 hours ago

May 1, 2024

Tom Sinclair

POLICE in Pembrokeshire are investigating an attempted burglary at No.37 Food and Wine shop on High Street, Haverfordwest, at about 3am on Wednesday, April 3.

A window was smashed and the door handle broken.

Police said: “If you have any information that could help enquiries, please get in touch with PC 195 Tayler, either by: https://bit.ly/DPPContactOnline, by emailing [email protected], or by calling 101.

“Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555111, or visiting crimestoppers-uk.org.”

News

Don’t forget to vote on Thursday, May 2

Published

10 hours ago

May 1, 2024

Luke Sinclair

THURSDAY, May 2 is your chance to vote for the Dyfed-Powys Police and Crime Commissioner.

Don’t forget to use your vote and head to your local polling station between 7am and 10pm.

They are elected by the public to hold Chief Constables and the police force to account on their behalf.

A Police and Crime Commissioner’s job is to set the police budget and make sure it is spent effectively, appoint the local police forces Chief Constables, set police and crime plans in collaboration with residents and work closely with the local council and other organisations on these plans.

This is the first election in Wales where you will need photographic ID to vote.

Accepted forms of ID include a UK, European Economic Area (EEA) or Commonwealth passport or drivers’ licence; and some concessionary travel passes, such as an older person’s bus pass or an Oyster 60+ card. Voters will be able to use expired ID if they are still recognisable from the photo.

Or you may have applied for a Voter Authority Certificate which is also accepted.

If you plan on taking your Postal Vote to a polling station or County Hall main reception remember to fill in a vote return form. Without the completed form those postal vote(s) will be rejected.