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Crime

Crime Commissioner announces preferred candidate for Chief Constable position

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FOLLOWING a robust and transparent recruitment process involving key stakeholders, Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Dafydd Llywelyn has announced Ifan Charles as his preferred candidate for the role of the new Chief Constable for Heddlu Dyfed-Powys Police.

Following the interview process that has taken place over three days at Police Headquarters, PCC Dafydd Llywelyn said; “I am pleased to announce Temporary Chief Constable Ifan Charles as my preferred candidate for the role of our Chief Constable at Dyfed-Powys Police”.

“From the outset, it was vital to select a Chief Officer with the vision, determination, and resilience needed to lead our Police Service.

“Ifan performed exceptionally throughout the assessment process, demonstrating strong leadership and a deep understanding of policing.

“The interview panel, unanimously agreed that Ifan’s extensive experience, combined with the knowledge and understanding of the Dyfed-Powys area and the challenges we face, positions him well to support the needs and expectations of our communities as well as the organisation.”

Ifan Charles joined Dyfed-Powys Police in 2004. During his career, he has held a variety of roles across CID and uniformed policing in all four counties, progressing through different ranks.

His roles have included leading firearms incidents and managing serious crimes, where supporting and working with victims has been a central focus of his approach.

In 2022, Ifan successfully completed the Senior Police National Assessment Centre and Strategic Command Course, before taking on the role of the Assistant Chief Constable. He was appointed Deputy Chief Constable in July 2024.

Following former Chief Constable Dr Richard Lewis’ resignation earlier in 2025, Ifan has been acting up as Temporary Chief Constable, whilst PCC Dafydd Llywelyn and his Office undertook the recruitment and selection process.

PCC Dafydd Llywelyn concluded; “Ifan has an outstanding track record in tackling crime and managing community policing. I very much look forward to working with him to ensure our communities remain safe and to develop a service that is effective today and ready for the challenges of the future.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all the members of staff and officers as well as some of our partners and key stakeholders who have supported in the interviewing process”.

PCC Dafydd Llywelyn’s decision will now be considered by the Police and Crime Panel in a confirmation hearing to be held on 7 October 2025.

 

Crime

70-year-old denies assault and restraining order breach

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A PENSIONER from Pembroke Dock has denied breaching a restraining order and assaulting another man.

Henry Howlett, 70, of Market Street, appeared before Swansea Crown Court today (Friday, May 1), charged with breaching a restraining order and common assault.

The charges relate to an alleged incident on November 9 last year.

Howlett has previously appeared before magistrates in connection with a separate alleged incident involving a neighbour.

Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court previously heard that a dispute arose on July 17 after neighbour Steven Bromhall was washing his car outside his home in Market Street.

Prosecutor Nia James told the court that, as a taxi arrived to collect Howlett, the driver opened the window while passing and Mr Bromhall inadvertently sprayed the taxi driver with water from a hosepipe.

“The taxi driver started remonstrating, and the defendant then began waving his walking stick in the air, towards Mr Bromhall,” she said.

The court heard Mr Bromhall sustained an injury to his back, although it remained unclear whether he had been struck by Howlett’s stick.

Howlett pleaded not guilty to common assault in relation to that incident and was released on unconditional bail. A trial date was set at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court.

At Swansea Crown Court today, His Honour Judge P H Thomas KC asked Howlett whether he was legally represented.

“I can’t find anyone decent, I’m still searching, my lord,” Howlett replied.

When the court attempted to take his pleas, Howlett repeatedly interrupted in an effort to give an explanation, prompting the judge to tell him: “Be quiet, Mr Howlett.”

Howlett then pleaded not guilty to the charges, telling the court: “Definitely not guilty.”

As he left the courtroom, Howlett said: “I will get the truth out and I hope you all hang your heads in shame… this is all fixed.”

A trial date was set for January 14, 2027.

 

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Crime

Crymych parent denies failing to comply with school attendance order

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A CRYMYCH parent has denied failing to comply with a school attendance order, a court has heard.

The defendant appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates charged under the Education Act 1996.

The court heard that the defendant is accused of failing, as a parent, to ensure that a child attended school in accordance with the requirements of a School Attendance Order.

It is alleged that after being served with the order, the defendant did not comply within the required 15-day period.

A plea of not guilty was entered.

Magistrates adjourned the case for a case management hearing, which is scheduled to take place at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, May 14.

A reporting restriction remains in force.

 

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Crime

Cockle fisherman fined £3,450 for multiple breaches at protected site

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A GOODWICK man has been ordered to pay £3,450 after breaching fishing regulations at a protected cockle fishery.

Richard William Edwards, 45, of Goodwick, appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates charged with a series of offences at the Burry Inlet cockle fishery.

The court heard that Edwards had fished for cockles without a valid permit and breached conditions imposed under fisheries management rules. He was also found to have used an unauthorised vehicle in the fishery area, contrary to restrictions in place to protect the site.

Magistrates were told the offences took place on September 9, 2025, within the Burry Inlet Cockle Fishery, a designated and regulated area subject to strict controls.

Edwards was fined £1,000 and ordered to pay a victim services surcharge of £800, along with costs of £650, bringing the total to £3,450. A collection order was made.

The case was brought under fisheries legislation including the Cockle Fisheries Management and Permitting (Specified Area) (Wales) Order 2024.

The court heard that Edwards had been in breach of a prohibition imposed by the permitting system and had failed to comply with the terms of his permit.

The offences are part of ongoing enforcement efforts to protect the sustainability of cockle stocks and ensure compliance within the fishery.

 

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