News

Neyland: Jason James sentenced to 30 years for rape and abuse of young children

Published

3 years ago

October 11, 2021

A MAN has been sentenced to 30 years – 22 years in prison with an eight-year extended period on licence – for the sexual abuse and rape of children following an intensive investigation by Dyfed-Powys Police.

Jason James, aged 48, formerly of St Clements Road, Neyland, was sentenced at Swansea Crown Court today after being found guilty following trial of sexual activity with a child, assault by penetration, three counts of rape of a child under 13 and two counts of sexual assault of a child under 13.

The charges involved four children, who were supported through the investigation by specialist officers from Dyfed-Powys Police.

Investigating officer DC Kieran Griffiths said: “James was initially arrested for breach of his Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO) in May 2019, this had come about following a report of him having unsupervised access with children.

“We would like to thank those individuals and their families that came forward at that time.”

As the investigation into these matters progressed, the level of depravity James had forced on innocent children in horrific attacks was uncovered.

James admitted four counts of breaching his SOPO ahead of the trial but denied all other charges.

A further two counts of breaching his SOPO, which was imposed on him more than a decade ago, were added before he was sentenced today. They dated to 2019 and involved a further two children.

DC Griffiths said he was pleased James had been given a lengthy sentence, which he hoped would bring some closure to the victims.

“It is good to get this result for the victims and their families, who have shown a great deal of courage and dignity throughout the investigation and court process,” he said.

“James is a manipulative man. He tried to avoid going to court but was deemed fit to stand trial on two occasions.

“He then refused to attend court when his trial came around, showing complete disregard for his victims and the ordeals he had put them through.

“This investigation has been a huge undertaking for officers and staff in various departments at Dyfed-Powys Police, so I’m pleased their hard work has paid off.

“Hopefully the sentence handed down to James today will help all the victims and families to move on with their lives.

“As this case shows, we will always take reports of this kind seriously and treat victims sensitively, providing specialist support throughout the investigation and court proceedings.”

DI Phil Kite added: “James is a dangerous sexual predator and the sentencing reflects the gravity of his offending and the impact it has had on the victims.”

He will remain on the Sexual Offender’s Register indefinitely.

Crime

Mother admits to killing seven-year-old son in Haverfordwest

Published

4 hours ago

November 22, 2024

Luke Sinclair

A mother has admitted to the manslaughter of her seven-year-old son at their home in Haverfordwest, citing diminished responsibility.

Papaipit Linse, 43, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (Nov 22), where she denied murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of her son, Louis Linse. Prosecutor Caroline Rees KC confirmed the manslaughter plea would be accepted, stating it “did not come as a surprise” to the prosecution.

The incident occurred on 10 January when police were called to a property on Upper Market Street. Louis was rushed to Withybush General Hospital but tragically died shortly afterwards.

During the hearing, Linse, who spoke only to confirm her name and enter her pleas, was informed that she would be sentenced on 13 December. Judge Paul Thomas KC described the case as “clearly a very sensitive as well as a very tragic case.”

The court was told that Linse is currently receiving treatment at the Caswell Clinic, a mental health facility in Bridgend. Psychiatric evidence is expected to be presented during the sentencing hearing to provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding the case.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

17 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

17 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.