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Crime

Psychiatric assessment ordered for mother accused of murdering son, 6

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KAROLINA ZURAWSKA, the 41-year-old mother accused of murdering her six-year-old son, Alexander Zurawski, appeared in Swansea Crown Court this morning (Sept 3).

Zurawska was arrested on Thursday (Aug 29), following an incident at her home on Cwm Du Close in Gendros, Swansea.

The alleged incident also involved the attempted murder of a 67-year-old man, whose identity has not been disclosed.

Alexander Zurawski, 6, died on Thursday

South Wales Police have confirmed that they are not seeking any other suspects in connection with this case.

During a brief initial hearing at Swansea Magistrates’ Court on Monday, Ms Zurawska did not enter a plea. She only spoke to confirm her name, address, and date of birth.

Subsequently, she was remanded in custody and made her first appearance at Swansea Crown Court today.

She made no plea today, but confirmed her name and address for the court.

The scene of the incident

Zurawska’s defence team sought a psychiatric assessment, something which the judge agreed was a sensible idea.

A series of key dates for administrative court hearings leading up to a potential trial have been set:

  • Stage One: 25th October 2024
  • Stage Two: 22nd November 2024 (for any reports and defence statements)
  • Stage Three: 29th November 2024
  • Stage Four: 12th December 2024 (for further trial preparation)

Chief Superintendent Chris Truscott, divisional commander for Swansea and Neath Port Talbot, described the event as “a distressing incident” that has sent “a tremendous shock” through the local community. In the wake of this tragedy, the family of young Alexander Zurawski paid tribute to him, describing him as a “very kind child” who was “always well-behaved” and “never naughty.” They also highlighted his intelligence, noting that he was “very clever and mature for his age,” with a “great understanding of facts,” and that he was fluent in both English and Polish

The court determined that if a trial is deemed necessary, it is scheduled to begin on February 17.

 

Crime

70-year-old denies assault and restraining order breach

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A PENSIONER from Pembroke Dock has denied breaching a restraining order and assaulting another man.

Henry Howlett, 70, of Market Street, appeared before Swansea Crown Court today (Friday, May 1), charged with breaching a restraining order and common assault.

The charges relate to an alleged incident on November 9 last year.

Howlett has previously appeared before magistrates in connection with a separate alleged incident involving a neighbour.

Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court previously heard that a dispute arose on July 17 after neighbour Steven Bromhall was washing his car outside his home in Market Street.

Prosecutor Nia James told the court that, as a taxi arrived to collect Howlett, the driver opened the window while passing and Mr Bromhall inadvertently sprayed the taxi driver with water from a hosepipe.

“The taxi driver started remonstrating, and the defendant then began waving his walking stick in the air, towards Mr Bromhall,” she said.

The court heard Mr Bromhall sustained an injury to his back, although it remained unclear whether he had been struck by Howlett’s stick.

Howlett pleaded not guilty to common assault in relation to that incident and was released on unconditional bail. A trial date was set at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court.

At Swansea Crown Court today, His Honour Judge P H Thomas KC asked Howlett whether he was legally represented.

“I can’t find anyone decent, I’m still searching, my lord,” Howlett replied.

When the court attempted to take his pleas, Howlett repeatedly interrupted in an effort to give an explanation, prompting the judge to tell him: “Be quiet, Mr Howlett.”

Howlett then pleaded not guilty to the charges, telling the court: “Definitely not guilty.”

As he left the courtroom, Howlett said: “I will get the truth out and I hope you all hang your heads in shame… this is all fixed.”

A trial date was set for January 14, 2027.

 

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Crime

Crymych parent denies failing to comply with school attendance order

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A CRYMYCH parent has denied failing to comply with a school attendance order, a court has heard.

The defendant appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates charged under the Education Act 1996.

The court heard that the defendant is accused of failing, as a parent, to ensure that a child attended school in accordance with the requirements of a School Attendance Order.

It is alleged that after being served with the order, the defendant did not comply within the required 15-day period.

A plea of not guilty was entered.

Magistrates adjourned the case for a case management hearing, which is scheduled to take place at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, May 14.

A reporting restriction remains in force.

 

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Crime

Cockle fisherman fined £3,450 for multiple breaches at protected site

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A GOODWICK man has been ordered to pay £3,450 after breaching fishing regulations at a protected cockle fishery.

Richard William Edwards, 45, of Goodwick, appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates charged with a series of offences at the Burry Inlet cockle fishery.

The court heard that Edwards had fished for cockles without a valid permit and breached conditions imposed under fisheries management rules. He was also found to have used an unauthorised vehicle in the fishery area, contrary to restrictions in place to protect the site.

Magistrates were told the offences took place on September 9, 2025, within the Burry Inlet Cockle Fishery, a designated and regulated area subject to strict controls.

Edwards was fined £1,000 and ordered to pay a victim services surcharge of £800, along with costs of £650, bringing the total to £3,450. A collection order was made.

The case was brought under fisheries legislation including the Cockle Fisheries Management and Permitting (Specified Area) (Wales) Order 2024.

The court heard that Edwards had been in breach of a prohibition imposed by the permitting system and had failed to comply with the terms of his permit.

The offences are part of ongoing enforcement efforts to protect the sustainability of cockle stocks and ensure compliance within the fishery.

 

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