News

Police’s physical restraint was a ‘contributing factor’ to man’s death

Published

5 years ago

January 25, 2019

AN INQUEST into the death of a man at Haverfordwest police station has concluded that the method used to restrain him was a contributing factor in his death.

53-year-old Meirion James, from Crymych, died in custody after being arrested in January 2015.

He had called police and told them he had assaulted his mother.

Later that day, Mr James rushed out of his cell at police officers, who had to physically restrain him.

They also used Pava spray to try and control him.

The inquest ruled that officers were right to restrain Mr James, but the method used – pinning him down on his stomach – contributed to his death.

The failure to carry out a mental health assessment was also a failing on the police’s part, the jury said.

Assistant Chief Constable of Dyfed-Powys Police, Vicki Evans, said: “On behalf of Dyfed-Powys Police, I want to express my sincere sympathy to Mr James’ family and friends who have had to go through an extended period of distress to reach this point.

“Mr James died in tragic circumstances and I cannot begin to comprehend the distress and grief this has caused for his family. Whilst I fully appreciate that nothing can lessen their loss, I hope the closing of Mr James’ inquest will help ease some of their distress.

“Ensuring the public are safe is a priority for our officers and staff and we deeply regret it when anyone comes to harm during or following police contact.

“Immediately after the incident we referred the case to the Independent Police Complaints Commission, now the IOPC. We fully co-operated with their investigation and their recommendations have been actioned.”

A police spokesperson added: “Improvements have been made in the four years since Mr James’ death, both in Dyfed-Powys Police and nationally, in the way that police support people who are suffering from a mental health illness.

“We acknowledge the return of a narrative verdict and will ensure that the coroner’s detailed report is carefully considered and any recommendations acted upon.”

The official ruling on the cause of Mr James’ death was positional asphyxia.

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.