News
Abusive partner coerced woman into cocaine dealing, court told
A RECENT court ruling has illuminated a distressing case involving Daloni Jones, a woman coerced into dealing cocaine by her abusive partner, Matthew Pritchard. Both individuals were apprehended and charged in connection to cocaine-related offences, marking a troubling chapter in their tumultuous relationship.
Jones, 26, from Bro Gwynfaen, Croes-lan, near Llandysul, stood before Cardiff Crown Court, having pleaded guilty to two charges: possession with intent to supply cocaine and being concerned in the supply of cocaine. The court learnt that her partner, Pritchard, 29, of Station Road in Pembroke Dock, had previously been sentenced to three years and eight months behind bars for the same offences.
The events came to light after a police raid on the couple’s residence in Llandysul on February 9th, during which law enforcement uncovered a significant stash of cocaine totalling at least 23.5 grams.
A subsequent raid on a property in Penrhiw-llan on May 11th, where the couple had been staying, yielded a further 11.84 grams of the illicit substance.
In the court proceedings, Jones’s defence underscored the toxic dynamics of her relationship with Pritchard, revealing that she had acted under his explicit instructions and endured an abusive environment. The judge, Paul Hobson, acknowledged the abusive nature of their relationship, stating, “[The prosecution’s] case is this was essentially his drug dealing operation but you played an important role assisting him and dealing with customers yourself.” He further recognised that while Jones had operated under Pritchard’s direction, there were instances where she had engaged in drug-related activities independently.
Though not under direct compulsion or threat from Pritchard, Judge Hobson emphasised that the fear and control exerted by him had substantially influenced Jones’s actions. He noted, “You didn’t act under direct compulsion. Mr. Pritchard did not threaten you. But it seems to me highly unlikely that you would have acted in this way were you not in a relationship with him. You were in fear of him, being controlled by him.”
Jones’s addiction to cocaine at the time of the offences further underscored the complexities of her situation. Despite her involvement in drug-related activities, the court recognised her commitment to rehabilitation during her time in prison. Judge Hobson took into consideration the efforts Jones had made towards personal growth and sentenced her to 21 months in prison, suspended for 18 months. She was also mandated to complete 30 days of rehabilitation activity and subjected to a four-month curfew from 8 pm to 7 am.
The case also signalled the commencement of Proceeds of Crime Act proceedings against the couple, aiming to address any financial gains made through their illicit activities.
Community
Over 5,600 elderly at risk of Losing winter fuel payments in Pembrokeshire
IN Mid & South Pembrokeshire, over 5,600 residents aged over 80 face the prospect of losing their Winter Fuel Payments. This follows recent government cuts, revealed by the latest official statistics released on the 24th of September.
The Pembrokeshire Liberal Democrats have urged the Labour government to urgently reconsider its stance. The party’s spokesperson, Andrew Lye, highlighted the critical situation, stating that many pensioners are now forced to make a distressing choice between heating their homes and buying food. “Thousands of pensioners here in the Mid & South Pembrokeshire constituency are desperately worried about how they will make it through this winter,” said Mr. Lye. He described the cut as the “completely wrong thing to be doing” in the face of such dire circumstances.
According to the data, 5,622 local pensioners who do not receive pension credit will be affected by the discontinuation of the Winter Fuel Payment—a benefit that previously granted them £300 each to assist with their energy bills during the colder months. Last year, pensioners over 80 in the area received a total of £1,702,500 in support, with a broader constituency figure reaching £4,072,500.
The figures indicate a significant reduction in financial support for the elderly, a demographic that Age UK warns will be in “serious trouble” this winter. The charity has previously reported that across the nation, around 2.5 million pensioners could suffer greatly due to the withdrawal of these essential payments.
The Liberal Democrats have called for a reversal of these cuts, urging the government to protect vulnerable pensioners amid increasing living costs. Mr. Lye emphasized the urgency of the situation: “It is not too late for this new government to change course, reverse these proposals, and protect vulnerable pensioners here in the Mid & South Pembrokeshire constituency, this winter.”
With the local community and advocacy groups raising alarms, the issue has garnered considerable attention, placing pressure on the government to address the potential crisis looming over some of its most vulnerable citizens this winter.
Crime
‘Sheer luck’ that out-of-control car did not hit mother and baby
IN MILFORD HAVEN a woman and her baby were on the way to the local shop on Saturday (Sept 28) when what was described at the scene as a “drunk driver” veered off the road, mounted the pavement, and struck the telegraph pole just next to them.
The pole, in Milton Crescent was damaged, causing heavy duty trunking to break off and hit the pram, damaging it, but narrowly missing the baby.
It seems Deanna Potter and her baby, Danny, were only saved by the fortunate position of the pole – which took a heavy impact – preventing the large black Audi from ploughing into them.
After the collision, the woman said, the driver “attempted to flee”, but her car was too damaged. She then exited her vehicle and walked away, “seemingly indifferent to the near-fatal accident” she had caused.
Police soon arrested the driver, and are investigating the incident.
Mother and baby are said to be doing fine, but are obviously shaken-up by the ordeal.
The police have been asked to comment. (Images: Facebook)
News
Milford Haven honours fishermen with annual memorial service
MILFORD HAVEN held its annual Fishermen’s Tribute Service on Saturday (Sept 28) at The Rath, in a heartfelt event that drew members of the community to honour its maritime legacy.
The Milford Haven Town Band played, adding to the solemnity of the occasion, attended by Mayor Councillor William Elliot, who laid a wreath on behalf of the town.
This year’s service, led by Reverend Samuel Patterson, focused on commemorating those connected to the fishing industry, reflecting on their contributions to the town’s prosperity. The event underscores the challenging conditions faced by fishermen and the pivotal role the fishing industry plays in Milford Haven’s economy and culture.
As part of the ceremony, attendees paid their respects at the memorial, which bears the inscription, “A Tribute to Our Fishermen,” affirming the community’s gratitude and remembrance of their efforts.
(Photos Lloyd Jones / Fiona Galliford)
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