News

Police officer ‘should be sacked’ over rape interview mess-up

Published

8 years ago

August 21, 2017

A TEENAGE victim of an alleged rape will have to re-live her ordeal for a second time after police in Pembrokeshire messed up her video interview.

It was the second time a judge at Swansea Crown Court has criticised the way Dyfed-Powys Police has dealt with alleged victims off serious sex crimes.

In the latest case, Judge Keith Thomas, the most senior resident judge, said the officer who monitored the interview should be sacked.

Those making allegations of a sexual nature are allowed to make a statement to police in a comfortable and secure environment, which is video taped and placed onto a DVD.

Later, if the alleged attacker is traced and put on trial – possibly years later – that DVD is played to the jury and becomes the victim’s evidence, without her having to repeat her story in person.

But Swansea Crown Court heard that the interview of a teenager who complained of being raped when she was a child had been handled so badly the DVD was useless.

Judge Thomas said it was so poor he would not allow it to be played to a jury.

Instead, she will have to re-interviewed.

Carina Hughes, prosecuting, said at one stage the camera was not even focused on the victim.

“It is completely unfair because it’s not her fault, but the DVD is not acceptable,” she added.

The poor audio was also an issue, said Miss Hughes.

Sex assault victims are supposed to be interviewed by a trained officer with a second officer monitoring the process from a different room.

Judge Thomas said he was not sure that anyone had bothered to monitor this particular interview but if he or she had then they should be sacked.

“There’s absolutely no control over the recording. They (the police) must get a grip.”

He also slammed the police for questioning the victim for one and half hours about a single allegation.

Judge Thomas said the next interview must be completed within 30 minutes or he would want an explanation ‘as to why he or she is incapable of carrying out a simple instruction’.

He said: “I cannot understand how any trained officer could think it is appropriate to question a [girl of this age] for ninety minutes.

“The new tape must take only thirty minutes maximum,” he added.

It is not known where the interview was conducted.

In 2014 another judge at Swansea Crown Court criticised Pembroke Dock police who left a window open during an interview with a rape victim. The sound of passing traffic drowned out her testimony and she had to give live evidence in court.

Charity

Communities across Pembrokeshire unite in memory of Sally Allen

Published

4 minutes ago

December 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

THE TRAGIC loss of Sally Allen in 2025 sent shockwaves through communities across Pembrokeshire and beyond. Deeply loved and widely respected, Sally was an integral part of the agricultural and equestrian world. Her sudden passing left an immeasurable sense of loss for her family, friends, and the many organisations and communities she was part of.

In the days and weeks following the accident, people from across the county came together in an extraordinary show of compassion, solidarity and remembrance. Sandy Bear Children’s Bereavement Charity was on hand to offer guidance and support to communities affected by the tragedy, helping individuals and families navigate the early and often overwhelming stages of grief.

Support in Sally’s memory has been widespread, with particular strength coming from the agricultural and equestrian sectors that meant so much to her. Young Farmers Clubs across Pembrokeshire organised fundraising evenings and gatherings, creating spaces for people to come together, share memories, and acknowledge the profound loss felt by so many.

On Monday 15 December, a deeply moving moment of remembrance took place as Sally’s family came together with David Evans, Chief Executive Officer of Clynderwen and Cardiganshire Farmers Ltd (CCF), along with further representatives from CCF and Sandy Bear Children’s Bereavement Charity. The occasion marked the launch of a specially commissioned design on one of CCF’s lorries.

The vehicle, N12 CCF, now proudly carries sunflowers – a flower Sally loved – alongside her name, celebrating her life while also featuring the Sandy Bear logo. This thoughtful tribute was warmly received by the Allen family and ensures that Sally’s memory, kindness and impact will continue to be carried far and wide.

CCF is deeply rooted in the landscapes and communities Sally cared about. At the launch, Mr Evans announced that CCF will make a donation to Sandy Bear aligned with the miles travelled by N12 CCF throughout January, transforming everyday journeys into a lasting legacy of support.

In addition, a JustGiving page will remain open until the end of January, allowing individuals and organisations to continue honouring Sally’s memory by supporting Sandy Bear alongside the CCF fundraiser.

Sandy Bear Children’s Bereavement Charity supports children and young people across Wales who are grieving the death of someone important to them. Being present at times of profound loss, and helping communities process grief with care and compassion, is at the heart of the charity’s work.

Sally Allen’s life touched many. The response to her passing has shown not only the depth of love felt for her, but the strength of communities when they come together in kindness. Through these acts of remembrance and generosity, her legacy will continue to make a difference to others during their darkest moments.

Crime

Haverfordwest man denies historic rape charges involving underage girl

Published

52 minutes ago

December 17, 2025

Luke Sinclair

Trial listed at Cardiff Crown Court for 2027

A HAVERFORDWEST man has denied a series of historic sexual offences against an underage girl and is due to stand trial at Cardiff Crown Court in 2027.

Lee Mahagan, aged 52, of High Street, Haverfordwest, has pleaded not guilty to four counts of rape and two counts of engaging in penetrative sexual activity with a child.

The charges relate to allegations involving a girl aged between 13 and 15, which are said to have occurred in Cardiff between 2009 and 2010.

The court was told that the case is expected to take around five days when it goes before a jury. A trial date has been set for January 25, 2027.

Mahagan was granted conditional bail by Judge Hywel James following a hearing at Cardiff Crown Court.

The defendant is represented by David Pinnell, while Daniel Jones is appearing for the prosecution.

Crime

Teenager charged following rape allegation at Saundersfoot nightclub

Published

3 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Staff Writer

Incident reported at Sands Nightclub in early hours of Sunday

DYFED-POWYS POLICE is investigating an allegation of rape following an incident reported at Sands Nightclub in Saundersfoot in the early hours of Sunday (Dec 14).

An 18-year-old man was arrested after officers were called to the venue, which is a popular late-night spot in the seaside village. The allegation relates to events said to have taken place during the early hours of the morning.

Joshua Probert, aged 18, has since been charged with one count of rape. He has been remanded in custody and is due to appear before Swansea Crown Court on Thursday (Dec 18).

The complainant is entitled to lifelong anonymity under law, and no further details about the allegation can be reported at this stage.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that enquiries are ongoing. Officers are understood to have carried out initial investigative work shortly after the report was made, including speaking to witnesses.

Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is urged to contact Dyfed-Powys Police.

Anyone affected by sexual assault or rape can contact the 24/7 Rape & Sexual Abuse Support Line, run by Rape Crisis England & Wales, on 0808 500 2222. Calls are free and confidential.