News

Two arrested for distraction thefts

Published

7 years ago

November 23, 2016

Welsh-police

A ROMANIAN national who conned three different Pembrokeshire businesses out of £200 each using a “sophisticated” sleight of hand technique was jailed for 40 weeks yesterday (Nov 22).

Baron Rostas, 27, who gave an address in Rotherham, pleaded guilty to three charges of theft from a shop, all of which took place on November 17, at Ultracomida in Narberth, Monkton Post Office, and The Best One in Charles Street, Milford Haven.

Bobi Anghel, 18, pleaded not guilty to the same charges, along with charges of driving without a valid licence and insurance.

Prosecuting, Abul Hussein said that Rostas had gone into various premises and purchased items. He had then produced a large quantity of £20 notes, and asked for them to be changed in to £10 notes. He then discreetly pocketed a quantity of the cash, before telling the cashier that he had changed his mind and swapping the money back.

“He has confused the cashier, and distracted them, so they don’t realise that he has taken the money,” Mr Hussein added.

The theft of £200 in each case was not noticed until the till were cashed up at the end of the day.

The court was shown CCTV footage of one of the incidents, which indicated Rostas palming money to one side, and concealing a number of notes in his left hand.

Defending, Mark Layton said that Rostas was willing to pay compensation of £600.

Describing his previous offending as “limited”, Mr Layton said that Rostas, who has previously been convicted for a similar matter, was employed as a car washer in Rotherham.

It had been claimed that he had travelled to the Pembrokeshire area to purchase a car, only to find that it had a serious defect when he arrived, but this was not verified.

“These were thoroughly unpleasant offences, but the defendant could only have obtained a limited amount through the deception,” Mr Layton added.

Speaking through an interpreter, Rostas told the court that he was “extremely sorry” for his behaviour, and assured magistrates that there would be no repetition.

Magistrates told Rostas that the offences were so serious that only a custodial sentence was appropriate.
“These were planned, professional and sophisticated offences, which cause significant harm to small businesses,” they added.

In addition to the 40 week custodial sentence, Rostas was ordered to pay compensation of £600, costs of £85 and a victim surcharge of £140.

Anghel will be tried at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on December 19. He was released on conditional bail until then.

Inspector Aled Davies said: “We are very pleased with the sentence handed out to Rostas. It was obvious that these two passing offenders were intent on committing crime and offences during their travels and I am pleased to say that their crime spree came to an abrupt halt in Pembrokeshire.

“Travelling criminals such as these are greedy, dishonest and do not care who they target. Their sole purpose in committing such crimes is to steal money for their own personal benefit. It was a pleasure to be part of the team who eventually arrested and detained these two offenders.”

This week (Nov 21-25) Dyfed-Powys Police are working with partners across the UK to stop criminals using the road networks both within and coming from outside the UK as part of Operation Trivium. Officers will be stopping vehicles and checking drivers’ details with the purpose of dealing a major blow to mobile criminality.

Inspector Davies continued: “Travelling criminals cause distress, annoyance and loss to their victims. Our role is to protect and safeguard the communities that we police. My message to all mobile criminals would be to stay away from Dyfed-Powys – we will always take positive action against travelling criminals and if caught they will be taken to court and prosecuted.

“I would like to take this opportunity to warn people in the Dyfed-Powys community to be wary of money changing scams. Always be vigilant and suspicious of these types of offenders, whose sole purpose is to confuse, using sleight of hand trickery to steal your money.

“If you believe that someone is attempting to commit such offences, do not engage or interact with them and report the incident at your earliest opportunity by calling 101.”

Community

Welsh National Scooter Rally gears up for a revival in Tenby

Published

8 hours ago

April 27, 2024

Tom Sinclair

SCOOTER enthusiasts from across the country are set to descend on Tenby for the eagerly anticipated return of the Welsh National Scooter Rally this May Bank Holiday weekend. This marks the event’s grand return to the popular seaside destination for the first time since 2022, promising a vibrant celebration of scooter culture.

Organised by the Scooter Collective South Wales, the rally is expected to draw hundreds to Pembrokeshire’s “jewel in the crown.” Attendees can look forward to a colourful array of scooters lining the historic Tenby High Street, adding a splash of retro charm to the town’s picturesque scenery.

The weekend’s schedule is packed with activities, starting with a scenic ‘ride-out’ from Tenby United RFC on Heywood Lane on Saturday afternoon. This event promises to be a visual spectacle, with a parade of beautifully maintained and creatively decorated scooters cruising through the local area.

Music lovers have plenty to get excited about as well. The Specials Limited, a renowned two-tone tribute band, will be performing at the De Valence Pavilion on Friday night, supported by DJ Steve Foster. Concurrently, the Ex-Servicemen’s Club and Tenby Rugby Club will host rooms dedicated to Northern Soul and Reggae soul, respectively, ensuring that there’s something to suit all musical tastes.

Saturday’s festivities will also feature a customs show and traders fair at the Rugby Ground. This event provides a perfect opportunity for enthusiasts to showcase their scooters and exchange tips and accessories with fellow aficionados.

As the rally winds down, the weekend will conclude with a grand end-of-rally party at the Rugby Club, where participants can celebrate their shared passion for scooters and music, reflecting on a weekend full of fun and camaraderie.

For those planning to attend, the Welsh National Scooter Rally not only offers a chance to revel in scooter culture but also to explore the enchanting town of Tenby.

With its rich history and stunning coastal views, Tenby provides the perfect backdrop for an event that celebrates classic style and community spirit.

Community

Barley Saturday makes a grand return to Cardigan

Published

8 hours ago

April 27, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ON SATURDAY (Apr 27), the historic town of Cardigan in West Wales is abuzz with excitement as it hosts its largest annual event, Barley Saturday. This significant day marks not just a local festival but a vital link to the agricultural roots of the region, attracting spectators from across the country to witness a spectacular parade of livestock and vintage vehicles.

At 2 PM, the main streets of Cardigan transformed into a vibrant parade route featuring the best of rural life—from the supreme stallion, admired by an enthusiastic crowd, to the meticulously prepared parade participants. This parade not only showcases the beauty and strength of these animals but also the care and tradition that continue to thrive in Cardigan.

The event kicked off early with an impressive lineup of agricultural workhorses displayed on the show field. The anticipation built up throughout the day as crowds gathered, lining the streets, eager to catch a glimpse of the gleaming vintage vehicles and the majestic livestock. According to Tudor Harries, the show secretary, “Barley Saturday helps restore the lost link between our community and its agricultural heritage.”

With such a large turnout, local authorities implemented strategic road closures and diversions to manage the flow of traffic effectively. Between 1:30 PM and 4 PM, several main roads were closed, ensuring the parade route remains clear and safe for both participants and spectators. Traffic around the town was slow-moving, indicating the high volume of attendees this year.

Beyond the festivities, Barley Saturday is a day of community and giving. Volunteers play a crucial role in marshaling the event, and bucket collections are conducted throughout the day, with all proceeds going to local charities. This spirit of community service is a testament to the values that underpin Barley Saturday.

Barley Saturday is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of Cardigan’s heritage and a vital part of its cultural calendar. It offers a day filled with joy, community spirit, and a deep appreciation for the rural traditions that are so often overlooked in modern times. As the town enjoys today’s festivities, it also renews its connection to the past, ensuring that these traditions will not be forgotten.

Charity

Peter’s walk for veterans suffering from mental health issues

Published

8 hours ago

April 27, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ON Saturday, March 30, Peter Kraus undertook a 15.6-mile walk from Front Street in Pembroke Dock to Carew Castle to support veterans struggling with mental health issues and PTSD.

Originally believing the route to be 10 miles, Kraus faced a greater challenge than anticipated. He organized the walk through the Combat Stress Site, aiming to raise £1000. “They look after us and keep us safe,” Kraus told The Herald, expressing his effort as a gesture of gratitude towards the veterans.