Cardiff Crown Court Sentencing Results

Explore 136 verdicts at Cardiff Crown Court (Cardiff). Updated with the latest court outcomes.

George Renny

Causing or inciting sexual exploitation of a child

September 17, 2025

Sentence: 32 months imprisonment and made subject to a restraining order and sex offender notification requirement indefinitely

George Renny, 56, contacted a 16-year-old girl on an online chatroom, engaging in sexual conversations and exchanging explicit messages. He paid her £25 a week and additional amounts for sexual acts and images, totaling £180. They met in person in Cardiff, where he kissed and touched her inappropriately in public, then drove her to country lanes near Caerphilly for sexual intercourse in his car. He was confronted by witnesses and later found in possession of over 350 indecent images of children as young as seven, including category A, B, and C images, as well as extreme pornographic images. The offences occurred between 2017 and 2024.

Pleaded guilty to three counts of causing or inciting sexual exploitation of a child, three counts of making indecent images, one count of possessing extreme images, and two counts of taking indecent photographs. Judge Paul Hobson noted the defendant has an entrenched sexual interest in children and highlighted the severity of the images depicting child rape.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Leighton Gronow

Assault

September 17, 2025

Sentence: 6 months imprisonment

Leighton Gronow assaulted his partner multiple times at her home in Cardiff. In December 2023, he kicked her in the thigh during an argument, causing significant bruising. On May 18, 2024, he became aggressive when she planned to visit a friend, pulled her down on the bed, and strangled her, leaving bruises on her neck. On June 19, 2024, after she tried to end the relationship, he pulled clumps of her hair out, lifting her off the bed and pushing her against a wall, resulting in a bald patch on her scalp. The victim reported severe impacts on her mental health, including nightmares and fear for her safety.

Pleaded guilty to intentional suffocation and two counts of assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Has 10 previous convictions including threats to kill. In mitigation, he has moved areas, supports four children, and has sporting achievements in rugby and boxing.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Michael Starmore

Burglary

September 17, 2025

Sentence: four years imprisonment

Michael Starmore, 41, committed multiple burglaries targeting vulnerable individuals, including a man with dementia and a terminally ill woman. On November 8, 2024, he stole a wallet and used the bank card for a £20 transaction. On February 12, 2025, he stole parcels containing children's books. On March 14, 2025, he broke into a home, stealing three diamond rings, a wedding ring, a Rolex watch, another watch, and a cheque book. On April 8, 2025, he broke into another home, leaving items scattered. On April 9, 2025, he burgled a terminally ill woman's home, taking a stuffed badger, a Kindle, and financial documents. He was also found in possession of amphetamine on April 10, 2025.

Pleaded guilty to burglary, fraud by false representation, and possession of amphetamine. He has 43 previous convictions for offences of dishonesty. Judge Vanessa Francis noted that he and his partner took more than belongings, including victims' memories.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Stuart Davies

Causing serious injury by dangerous driving

September 17, 2025

Sentence: 12 months imprisonment and 2 years and 6 months driving disqualification

Stuart Davies, 41, consumed a bottle of wine and drove while almost three times over the drink drive limit, colliding head-on with a car driven by Mia Thomas, 19, on the A467 in Brynmawr, Blaenau Gwent, on December 18, 2024. The collision left Ms Thomas with a broken nose, a fractured knee, a displaced fibula, a torn cruciate ligament, concussion, and injuries to her pelvis and leg. A large kitchen knife with a seven-inch blade was found in his car, which he claimed he intended to use on himself.

Pleaded guilty to causing serious injury by dangerous driving and drink driving. Had prior convictions for theft, public order offences, and drunk and disorderly behaviour. Judge commented that he was in no state to drive and that the consequences could have been worse.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Tasha Robinson

Burglary

September 17, 2025

Sentence: two years imprisonment suspended for two years

Tasha Robinson, 36, assisted in burglaries as Michael Starmore's partner. On February 12, 2025, she drove a white Audi to help steal three parcels containing children's books. She was found in possession of amphetamine on April 10, 2025, and items from burglaries were discovered in her vehicle.

Pleaded guilty to burglary and possession of amphetamine. She has previous convictions for drug driving and failing to surrender. She was ordered to complete a rehabilitation activity requirement for 15 days, a six-month curfew, and a trail monitor requirement.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Richard Jenkins

Handling stolen goods

September 16, 2025

Sentence: 32 months imprisonment

Richard Jenkins's DNA was found inside a stolen MG car that had been taken from a property in Barry on February 11. He was not responsible for the theft but had been inside the vehicle, and he has a history of similar offences including burglary and theft.

Pleaded guilty to handling stolen goods. Has a history of offences including burglary and theft. Suffered from PTSD and class A drug addiction; the judge offered condolences for the loss of his daughters.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

David Rhind

Engaging in sexual communications with a child

September 16, 2025

Sentence: Three-year community order with 160 hours unpaid work, 26 sessions of an accredited programme, and £150 court costs

David Rhind, 41, from Cardiff, believed he was communicating online with a 13-year-old girl named Maisie from Southampton via chatroom Chatiw and Snapchat. He asked about her clothing, requested photographs, sent images of himself progressing from clothed to naked, and discussed sexual activities including cuddling naked, lying on the sofa in underwear, having a shower together, and meeting at a hotel or his home. He was arrested on March 25 after providing his devices to police.

Pleaded guilty; of previous good character; mitigation included borderline intelligence and personal troubles such as job loss, relationship breakdown, and relocation; Judge Paul Hobson emphasised the need to protect children from sexual contact by adults.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Dean Eastwood

Arson with intent to endanger life

September 16, 2025

Sentence: Six years and seven months imprisonment

Dean Eastwood, 34, armed with a jerry can of petrol with a hose attached, travelled from Manchester to Trethomas in Caerphilly with Dean Reddington to firebomb a terraced house due to a drug dispute. On June 25, he approached the property wearing a balaclava, chased a female occupant who screamed for help, and assisted in smashing a window, pouring petrol inside, and igniting the fire, which caused the house to become uninhabitable and posed a significant risk to life.

Pleaded guilty to arson with intent to endanger life. Has previous convictions for drugs offences, assault, and theft. Became involved to wipe out a large drug debt.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Dean Reddington

Arson with intent to endanger life

September 16, 2025

Sentence: Six years and seven months imprisonment

Dean Reddington, 40, armed with a jerry can of petrol with a hose attached, travelled from Manchester to Trethomas in Caerphilly with Dean Eastwood to firebomb a terraced house over a drug dispute. On June 25, he smashed a window of the victims' home, poured accelerants inside, and set the house ablaze, causing extensive smoke damage and rendering it uninhabitable. The act posed a high risk of serious harm to occupants and neighbouring properties.

Pleaded guilty to arson with intent to endanger life. Has previous convictions for theft, damage, and attempted robbery. Involved to repay a drug debt, has PTSD, and reestablished contact with his mother and daughter.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Haydn Davies

Assault occasioning actual bodily harm

September 15, 2025

Sentence: 21 months imprisonment suspended for 18 months, 21-day accredited programme, 20-day rehabilitation activity requirement, 9-month alcohol treatment requirement, and 2-year driving disqualification

Haydn Davies, 32, entered his ex-partner's home uninvited in Newport, grabbed her by the neck, pushed her against a wall, stamped on her phone, and punched her television. He sent abusive messages and made threats. He later engaged in a high-speed police chase, driving at 70mph, through red lights, and the wrong way around a roundabout in Cwmbran. The incidents occurred on July 9 and July 21, 2025, amid jealousy over a perceived other man.

Pleaded guilty to the offenses. Has 10 previous convictions, mostly from youth. Struggled with relationship breakdown, leading to alcohol and drug use. Judge described behaviour as outrageous and out of control.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Pauline Parnell

Causing death by careless driving

September 11, 2025

Sentence: 15 months imprisonment, suspended for two years, and disqualified from driving for three years

Pauline Parnell was driving a Mini Cooper on Boxing Day, 2023, on the A48 at Marshfield between Newport and Cardiff, when she struck and killed Clive Rogers, a 51-year-old cyclist who was wearing an elf costume, Santa hat, and LED lights. She failed to brake or slow down, continued driving approximately 400 metres after the collision, and claimed her eyes were blinded by bright lights. A forensic collision investigation concluded the vehicle was travelling between 36mph and 45mph, and Mr. Rogers was clearly visible.

Pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving. No previous convictions. Expressed genuine remorse and has health issues.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Malakyi Thompson

Robbery

September 9, 2025

Sentence: 5 years imprisonment

Malakyi Thompson, 23, attacked Alex Lock as he walked home in Newport on May 10, confronting him aggressively, punching him in the face, and stealing his phone and bank card. The victim suffered facial injuries, including a cut, grazes, bruises, and two chipped teeth, and was treated at hospital. Thompson used the stolen bank card to withdraw £400 and made further unsuccessful transactions. He was later arrested at his home in Park Avenue, Rogerstone, where he assaulted police officers by punching one and kicking and spitting at another.

Pleaded guilty to robbery, fraud, and two counts of assaulting a police officer. Has 14 previous convictions for offences including battery and assault.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Delme Cheese

Assault occasioning actual bodily harm

September 9, 2025

Sentence: 16 months imprisonment

Delme Cheese, 25, grabbed a woman by the throat and unleashed a torrent of punches and kicks to her face and body in Ebbw Vale in July, ripping her clothing and leaving her feeling violated. He continued to shout abuse and threatened others at the scene. The victim suffered a cut to her cheek, a swollen face, bruising to her back, and marks to her body. During his arrest, he assaulted a police officer by kicking them, causing injury.

Pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm and assaulting an emergency worker. Has 10 previous convictions for violent offences. In mitigation, the defendant has issues with alcohol.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Jonathan Walters

Possession with intent to supply a Class A drug

September 7, 2025

Sentence: 3 years imprisonment

On May 27, 2025, Jonathan Walters and Paul Hughes were stopped by police in Bridgend while in a car driven by Walters. Hughes threw cling film wraps containing 84g of heroin out of the window, which were later recovered. The drugs had a street value of between £2,400 and £4,500. Messages on Hughes's mobile phone indicated both defendants' involvement in supplying heroin. Walters has a long history of heroin addiction and employment challenges due to injury.

Pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply a Class A drug. He has been a heroin addict for 15 years and previously worked as a mechanic but became unable to work due to an injury causing compression to his head, neck, and spine.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Paul Hughes

Possession with intent to supply a Class A drug

September 7, 2025

Sentence: 3 years imprisonment

On May 27, 2025, Paul Hughes and Jonathan Walters were stopped by police in Bridgend while in a car driven by Walters. Hughes threw cling film wraps containing 84g of heroin out of the window, which were later recovered. The drugs had a street value of between £2,400 and £4,500. Messages on Hughes's mobile phone indicated both defendants' involvement in supplying heroin. Hughes has a history of heroin addiction and related issues.

Pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply a Class A drug. His life was wrecked by heroin addiction after starting at age 20, leading to debts and pressure to deal drugs. He has experienced personal tragedies, including the death of a child and the amputation of his leg due to drug use.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Rocco Malanti

Engaging in sexual activity with a child

September 5, 2025

Sentence: 12 years and 10 months imprisonment and a 2-year extended licence period

Rocco Malanti groomed and sexually abused two young girls under the age of 16 on multiple occasions. He gained their trust by providing alcohol, cigarettes, and transportation, then exploited them by performing oral sex, having vaginal sex, and masturbating in their presence. The abuse occurred over a period that came to light in 2022, with victims describing being manipulated, threatened, and left with lasting trauma.

Pleaded guilty to six counts of engaging in sexual activity with a child and engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child. Of previous good character and has been diagnosed with diabetes. The judge commended the victims for their courage and noted that no sentence could undo the harm caused.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Corey Parker

Intentional strangulation

September 4, 2025

Sentence: 18 months imprisonment and a four-year restraining order

Corey Parker, 27, argued with his girlfriend at their home in Rhydyfelin, Pontypridd on February 6 about money. He strangled her for five to six seconds, leaving her unable to breathe, took her mobile phone threatening to sell it to prevent her from calling the police, pushed her onto a settee, and threw a table at a television set, causing it to smash. The victim escaped to a neighbour's house, and Parker was arrested shortly after at his mother's home. She later noticed bruising and reddening on her neck.

Pleaded guilty to intentional strangulation, theft, and criminal damage. Had 10 previous convictions for violent offences. Apologised in a letter to the court, citing personal hardships including losing his father young and struggling with schooling.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Malachi Lewis

Supply of Class A Drugs

August 29, 2025

Sentence: 2 years imprisonment and a £228 victim surcharge

Malachi Lewis was observed by plain-clothes police officers approaching a group in the Adamsdown area of Cardiff on an illegally modified electric bike while wearing a balaclava, offering drugs for supply. He attempted to flee but was detained, with officers finding £401.06 in cash and a Nokia burner phone containing messages indicating he had cocaine and heroin ready for distribution. This occurred in 2024 and 2025, and he has a history of similar offences.

Fell into the wrong crowd, could have been a professional footballer, has five previous convictions including drug and knife offences, became a father after arrest and has not met his child.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Nathan Howells

Intentional Strangulation

August 21, 2025

Sentence: 12 months imprisonment in a young offender institute, suspended for 2 years

On October 29, 2024, Nathan Howells, in a rage over his then-partner's refusal to buy vape liquid, strangled her for 30 seconds, causing her to feel lightheaded and fall to the floor. He then punched her in the head and ribs while she was defenceless, and kicked her belongings. The victim described their 14-month relationship as controlling, with Howells monitoring her phone and restricting social media use. She sustained bruising and red marks on her neck and has since struggled with sleep and fear of encountering him.

Admitted to intentional strangulation, assault and criminal damage. No previous convictions; showed some remorse. Ordered to complete a 25-day rehabilitation activity requirement, 180 hours of unpaid work, pay £600 in compensation, £100 towards prosecution costs, and a restraining order for 5 years.

Sources: manchestereveningnews.co.uk

Cody Bond

Aggravated Burglary

August 21, 2025

Sentence: 40 months in a young offender institute

Cody Bond, along with two accomplices, broke into Tesco Extra in Merthyr Tydfil on May 28 at around 4am. They smashed through reinforced glass doors using bricks, wielded a machete, and wandered around the store, taking a small amount of food, drink, and other items. They attempted to access cupboards containing vapes, cigarettes, and phones but took nothing of significant value. An alarm was triggered, leading to their arrest after they hid behind wheelie bins.

Pleaded guilty to aggravated burglary and possession of a knife in public. Judge described his actions as appalling and noted he had wasted opportunities to reform, treated his family appallingly, and was the eldest member of a gang. He has a history of offending since age 14, including prior convictions for ABH, knife possession, and burglaries.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Emma Hughes

Ill-treating or wilfully neglecting a patient in care

August 20, 2025

Sentence: 9 months imprisonment suspended for 18 months and a £500 fine

Emma Hughes, a carer at a care home in Pengam, mistreated a vulnerable non-verbal man in his 20s with lifelong physical disabilities and Angelman Syndrome. Over several incidents in March 2022, she manhandled him into a shower chair, sprayed water in his face without checking the temperature, dragged him forcefully, ignored his protests, made cruel comments about his mother not being there to protect him, and struck him on the arm. This caused him distress and led to reports from colleagues.

Pleaded guilty to ill-treating or wilfully neglecting a patient. No previous convictions. Behaviour was out of character due to personal issues at home, including caring for a terminally-ill step-daughter. Judge noted it was cruel and continued despite challenges from colleagues.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Lefteh Nikwan

Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Supply

August 20, 2025

Sentence: 30 months imprisonment

Lefteh Nikwan, an asylum seeker, was stopped by police in Cathays, Cardiff, on March 12, 2025, while driving an uninsured car. Officers found a smell of cannabis and discovered three grip-seal bags of cocaine and four of cannabis in the vehicle. His phone showed he was following a mapped route with 20 stop-off points for delivering cocaine and cannabis deals, typically valued at £50 to £100 each. Messages and photos on the phone indicated he was directed by others and involved in supplying drugs, with images showing cash and his wife packaging cannabis at home. A search of his address found £130 in cash. He denied dealing initially but was accepted as a courier.

Pleaded guilty to possession of cocaine with intent to supply and possession of cannabis with intent to supply. No previous convictions. Was acting as a courier under direction of others. Background includes fleeing Iran after anti-government protests and serving in the Iranian army.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Justin Saliba

Rape

August 18, 2025

Sentence: 11 years imprisonment

In 2021, at his flat in Cardiff, Justin Saliba sexually assaulted and raped a woman who had fallen asleep after consuming alcohol, cannabis, and prescription medication. She woke to find him licking her genitals and bottom, then proceeded to rape her while calling her 'baby'. The attack ended when her phone rang, allowing her to flee and report the incident to family and police. Saliba denied the allegations, claiming the victim had dreamt the events.

Pleaded not guilty and went to trial. Judge described his behaviour as grotesque and noted he had done irreparable damage to the victim. He has eight previous convictions for non-sexual offences.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Graham Edwards

Criminal damage

August 18, 2025

Sentence: 6 months imprisonment

Graham Edwards walked around Cwmbran town centre in the early hours of February 10, 2025, wearing a distinctive coat and smashing doors and windows of 43 businesses, including well-known chains like Costa Coffee, Greggs, and independent shops, causing more than £25,000 in damage. He was identified from CCTV footage, arrested on February 12, and initially denied responsibility, claiming he was on a spiritual journey. The court noted the act as mindless violence with no clear motivation, causing financial loss and community unease.

Pleaded guilty to criminal damage. Has nine previous convictions including battery, assaulting an emergency worker, and criminal damage. Diagnosed with characteristics of emotionally unstable personality disorder. Sentence reduced from 15 months to 9 months due to mental health issues, with further reduction for guilty plea.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

George Gleed

Attempting to meet a child under 16 following sexual grooming

August 5, 2025

Sentence: 21 months imprisonment (suspended for 21 months), 30-day rehabilitation activity requirement, £1,000 costs, 10 years on sex offenders register, 5-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order

George Gleed, aged 78, communicated online with a decoy posing as a 14-year-old girl on a social media app. He sent explicit images of himself, expressed desires to kiss her and engage in sexual acts, and attempted to arrange a meeting at Cyfarthfa Shopping Park on June 8, 2022. He was confronted by vigilantes and has a history of previous convictions for similar offences.

Pleaded guilty. Suffers from asbestosis and other medical issues. Has 15 previous convictions, including indecent assault on a child under 14. Judge noted inordinate delay in the case.

Sources: devonlive.com

Lee Sandeman

Grooming and sexual exploitation of a child

August 3, 2025

Sentence: 32 months imprisonment

Lee Sandeman, 39, from Ebbw Vale, groomed a 15-year-old girl in Canada over Discord, coercing her into performing sexual acts on camera and recording them. Police seized his computer containing hundreds of indecent images of children, including images of the victim and extreme pornography depicting children as young as nine being raped.

Must register as a sex offender indefinitely; subject to a restraining order and sexual harm prevention order; will serve half in custody.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Natalie Arroyo

Grooming and sexual communication with a child

August 3, 2025

Sentence: Three years and four months imprisonment

Natalie Arroyo, 33, a supply teacher, groomed a 15-year-old vulnerable boy by sending naked pictures of herself via Snapchat and expressing desires to have sex with him. She sent videos of herself performing sex acts, asked for pictures of his penis, and promised to leave her husband for him. The abuse was disclosed by the victim to another adult, leading to her arrest.

Made subject to sex offender notification requirements and a restraining order indefinitely; claimed she thought the boy was 16.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Kirk Richards

Assault Occasioning Actual Bodily Harm and Intentional Strangulation

July 30, 2025

Sentence: 15 months imprisonment (suspended for 18 months), 60 days alcohol abstinence monitoring requirement, 150 hours unpaid work, 26 sessions of a programme requirement, 20 days rehabilitation activity requirement, and £2,000 compensation

Kirk Richards, 35, of Merthyr Tydfil, assaulted his partner after an argument following a night out on April 20. He pulled out a chunk of her hair, dragged her to the floor, stood on her chest to pin her down, and strangled her three times with his hands until she experienced pins and needles, struggled to breathe, and nearly lost consciousness. The victim fought back by digging her nails into him and hitting him, and she apologised in an attempt to stop the attack. She has since reported significant emotional and mental impact, including trust issues and constant fear.

Pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm and intentional strangulation. Has five previous convictions for offences including battery. Judge described the act as cowardly, and the victim reported being petrified and fearing for her life.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Cyle Kidner

Assault by beating and racially/religiously aggravated harassment

July 30, 2025

Sentence: Two-year community order, alcohol abstinence monitoring requirement, and 10-day rehabilitation activity requirement

Cyle Kidner assaulted his partner by screaming at her aggressively in Cardiff Bay on September 23, 2024, causing her to be visibly upset and crying. He slapped her hand away when she tried to hold his, then pushed a man who confronted him about his behaviour and threatened to 'take on' the man and his colleagues. Later, at the St David's Hotel, he was obstructive during arrest, assaulted a police officer by lunging and hitting him on the arm, and racially abused another officer in custody by repeatedly calling him derogatory names and making offensive remarks about his heritage.

Pleaded guilty to the charges. Judge described his language as 'vile racist language' and said he should be ashamed. He was of previous good character and found prison a struggle.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Abigail Queen

Possession with intent to supply cannabis

July 30, 2025

Sentence: 10 months imprisonment suspended for 24 months, 15-day rehabilitation activity requirement, and a three-month tagged curfew

Abigail Queen, 28, was the registered owner of a black Mazda CX-5 that made multiple trips between Cardiff and Liverpool. On May 27, police pulled over the car on the A449 near the Coldra roundabout in Newport, where they discovered two large boxes containing 39 vacuum-packed bags of cannabis, each weighing 500g, with a street value of £112,000. She initially told police she was delivering clothes and denied the offences, but later pleaded guilty. She claimed she was 'stitched up' and was trying to do a favour for a friend.

Pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply cannabis. Of previous good character. Fell into debt from excessive cannabis use and was coerced into acting as a courier by drug dealers.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Andrew Thornton

Breaching a Sexual Harm Prevention Order

July 29, 2025

Sentence: 18 months imprisonment suspended for two years, 2 years community order, 15-day rehabilitation activity requirement, 6 months trail monitoring requirement, 120 hours unpaid work, and £150 in court costs

Andrew Thornton, already subject to a five-year sexual harm prevention order from a 2021 conviction for attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child, breached the order by using prohibited apps like Zangi and Telegram for encrypted communication. Police examination of his phone on April 28 revealed he had contacted a 14-year-old girl and made Airbnb bookings. A search of his address uncovered unregistered phones and children's underwear sized 12 to 14 years old, for which he provided no explanation.

Pleaded guilty to breaching a sexual harm prevention order. Has five previous convictions. Lives alone and works as a delivery driver. Barrister noted a reasonable prospect of rehabilitation.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Jamie Germaine

Conspiracy to supply MDMA

July 29, 2025

Sentence: Seven years and four months' imprisonment

Jamie Germaine, 52, made nine trips to the Box Hotel in Newport with his son Shaquille Germaine and brother Tyrell Germaine, as part of an organised crime gang's drug operation. On June 15, 2023, he travelled to the hotel and was stopped by police on the A48 in Marshfield, where a bag containing class A drugs was found in the vehicle.

Ihtesham Ali Hassan

Conspiracy to supply heroin, cocaine, and MDMA

July 29, 2025

Sentence: 14 months' imprisonment

Ihtesham Ali Hassan, the hotel manager, facilitated a conspiracy involving an organised crime gang at the Box Hotel in Newport and its sister hotel, the Box Guest House. He allowed the storage of heroin, cocaine, and MDMA, and enabled drug couriers to operate from the hotel, travelling throughout the UK to deliver and collect large quantities of drugs and cash.

Shaquille Germaine

Conspiracy to supply MDMA

July 29, 2025

Sentence: Seven years and six months' imprisonment

Shaquille Germaine, 27, made nine trips to the Box Hotel in Newport with his father Jamie Germaine and brother Tyrell Germaine, involving an organised crime gang's drug operation. Messages on his phone showed involvement in selling large amounts of MDMA tablets, branded with Donkey Kong. On June 15, 2023, he was stopped by police on the A48 in Marshfield, where 4,553 MDMA tablets worth between £13,599 and £45,330 were found in the vehicle. Class A drugs worth £135,000 were later seized from the hotel.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply MDMA and being concerned in the supply of MDMA. Benefited £119,965 from the offending but has no available assets, and was ordered to pay a nominal sum of £1.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Tyrell Germaine

Conspiracy to supply MDMA

July 29, 2025

Sentence: Four years and two months' imprisonment

Tyrell Germaine, 29, made nine trips to the Box Hotel in Newport with his brother Shaquille Germaine and father Jamie Germaine, as part of an organised crime gang's drug operation. On June 15, 2023, he travelled to the hotel and was stopped by police on the A48 in Marshfield, where he informed officers of a bag containing class A drugs in the vehicle, leading to the discovery of 4,553 MDMA tablets.

Christopher West

Causing death by dangerous driving

July 17, 2025

Sentence: 16 months imprisonment and disqualified from driving for two years and eight months

Christopher West was driving his Vauxhall Astra over the 30mph speed limit on Heol Trelai, Caerau, Cardiff, on May 1, 2023, when he failed to see 15-year-old Keely Morgan on a pedestrian crossing, despite her being illuminated by an iPad. He struck and killed her at the scene. West had his two daughters and their friend in the car and was reportedly showing off by snaking along the road and disconnecting the car's black box, which invalidated his insurance.

Pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving and causing death while uninsured. Judge Paul Hobson described him as an irresponsible show-off and noted that his remorse was overshadowed by attempts to minimise responsibility.

Sources: bristolpost.co.uk

Mohammed Hafiz

Unlawful wounding

July 16, 2025

Sentence: 21 months imprisonment

On March 15, 2025, in Barry, Mohammed Hafiz was walking a dog when he encountered Morgan Wiseman, whom he knew from school. Hafiz shouted abuse at a woman across the road, and when Wiseman intervened, Hafiz became aggressive, smashed a pint glass into Wiseman's face, causing deep lacerations near his left eye and on his wrist. Wiseman required hospital treatment and has since experienced anxiety, fear of encountering Hafiz, and changes to his routine.

Pleaded guilty to unlawful wounding. Has 60 previous convictions including common assault, affray, possession of a bladed article, and battery. Was under the influence of alcohol, cocaine, and pregabalin at the time. Subject to a restraining order for five years.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Lucy Paginton

Fraud by false representation

July 10, 2025

Sentence: Four years and eight months imprisonment

Lucy Paginton defrauded an elderly couple, Jack Hillier and Mary Hillier, out of £150,000 by creating false documents, including fabricated bank statements, letters from HM Courts and Tribunal Service, and documents from housebuilding companies. She convinced them of fictional property sales, civil claims, and compensation entitlements, starting in 2017. The couple had trusted her with their finances, and she spent the money on luxury items and services.

Pleaded guilty to seven counts of fraud by false representation. Ordered to pay £1 back under Proceeds of Crime Act.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Paul Harris

Conspiracy to supply Class A and B drugs

July 3, 2025

Sentence: 8 years and 8 months imprisonment

Paul Harris, 28, led an organised crime gang based in southeast Wales, involved in the wholesale supply of cocaine and ketamine. He fled to Spain and then to Venezuela and Colombia after co-conspirators were arrested. Raids in Monmouthshire between February and October 2021 seized over £50,000 worth of drugs, more than £40,000 in cash (including £38,000 hidden in a book), and mobile phones linking him to the operation. He involved his mother and stepfather but abandoned them upon fleeing. He was extradited back to the UK and has been unable to build a relationship with his four-year-old daughter due to his actions.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply Class A and B drugs. Has eight previous convictions, including supplying cannabis. Judge noted he was close to the original source and involved in buying and selling on a commercial scale for substantial financial gain. Mitigation included that he was not 'wanted' when he left the UK and attempted to return, but faced issues with his expired passport.

Sources: dailypost.co.uk

Najib Arab

Sexual exploitation and drug supply

July 1, 2025

Sentence: 9 years imprisonment with 2 years extended licence

Najib Arab, a refugee from Afghanistan, provided free cannabis to a vulnerable girl, engaged in sexual activity with her, and used her to package and deliver cannabis, misrepresenting his age.

Lured a vulnerable child into drug dealing and sexual exploitation. Had a prior conviction for dealing Class A drugs.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Aaron Gaughan

Rape

July 1, 2025

Sentence: 15 years and 3 months imprisonment with 5 years extended licence

Aaron Gaughan took advantage of a woman after both used crack cocaine, subjecting her to repeated rapes designed to humiliate her, leaving her in despair.

Raped a woman multiple times while under the influence of drugs, ignoring her pleas.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Amy Palfrey

Attempted murder by vehicle

July 1, 2025

Sentence: 9 months imprisonment

Amy Palfrey intentionally hit Ethan Loveridge on his motorbike with her car, reversed over his leg causing a compound fracture, amid prior acrimony between them.

Andrew Stanbury

Grievous bodily harm

July 1, 2025

Sentence: 32 months imprisonment

Andrew Stanbury punched a man outside a homeless hostel in Cardiff during a disturbance, causing the victim to hit his head and lose consciousness, leading to severe, potentially fatal injuries.

Delivered a punch that left the victim in a vegetative state; may face manslaughter if the victim dies.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Jack Llewellyn

Causing death by dangerous driving

July 1, 2025

Sentence: 6 years imprisonment

Jack Llewellyn lost control of his vehicle while weaving through traffic in Cwmbran, colliding with another car and killing his passenger, Nicholas Page, and injuring others.

James Grapper

Dangerous driving and drug possession

July 1, 2025

Sentence: 54 months imprisonment

James Grapper drove erratically on the M4 near Cardiff while disqualified, reached speeds of 100mph, rammed a police car, and was found with cocaine and weapons at his home.

Fled from police while driving under the influence, throwing cocaine packets from the car.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Alex Rickwood

Dangerous Driving

June 30, 2025

Sentence: 5 years and 5 months imprisonment and disqualified from driving for 7 years and 8 months

Alex Rickwood was driving an uninsured MG ZR car without a valid MOT and with a fraudulent trade plate on High Street, Dowlais. He lost control while speeding well above the 30 mph limit, estimated at 36 to 45 mph or more, failed to negotiate a bend, over-corrected, hit a lamppost, and mounted the pavement, striking and killing Catherine Bradford, a 52-year-old grandmother who was out jogging in a bright pink running top. The incident occurred on September 19, 2022, and Rickwood remained at the scene, calling emergency services.

Pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, driving without insurance, and using a fraudulent trade plate. Described as showing genuine remorse and traumatised by his actions. Judge noted his driving fell well below the required standard.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Mohammed Zahid

Causing death by careless or inconsiderate driving

June 30, 2025

Sentence: 16-month community order, 180 hours of unpaid work, and 12-month driving disqualification

On September 13, 2023, Mohammed Zahid was driving a white van on the A483 near Llanddewi in Powys when he turned right into an unclassified road but failed to see George Wilson, a 72-year-old motorcyclist, approaching from the opposite direction. The van collided with the motorcycle, striking the passenger-side wheel arch and throwing Mr. Wilson from his bike into the air. He sustained fatal injuries and died at the scene despite paramedics' efforts. Zahid remained at the scene, assisted authorities, and tested negative for alcohol and drugs, with no evidence of excessive speed.

Pleaded guilty to causing death by careless or inconsiderate driving. Of previous good character. Judge noted it was a momentary lapse of concentration and that he has been devastated by the incident.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Georgie Tannetta

Murder

June 27, 2025

Sentence: Life imprisonment with a minimum term of 22 years

Georgie Tannetta stabbed James Brogan, 43, in the arm with a 15-inch knife in a Cardiff park on November 12, 2024, during a revenge attack following a previous scuffle. He left Brogan bleeding heavily, leading to multiple organ failure and death the next day. Tannetta was found hiding in his aunt's home and arrested on suspicion of murder.

Found guilty after trial; denied murder and possession of a bladed article; judge described the attack as cowardly, borne of a hair-trigger temper and fixation with knives; shouts of 'yes, yes' from the public gallery during sentencing.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

David Taylor

Arranging or facilitating a child sexual offence

June 26, 2025

Sentence: 7 years imprisonment with an extended licence period of 5 years

David Taylor, 43, of Barry, engaged in sexualised conversations with two decoys he believed to be 14 and 15-year-old girls on social media. He used the username 'TheDude123' and attempted to groom them by discussing sex, sending links to pornographic websites, describing masturbation, asking them to touch themselves, requesting images, and suggesting they meet for 'naked stuff'. This occurred in April, and he was reported by a paedophile hunting group, leading to his arrest for breaching a Sexual Harm Prevention Order. He has a history of similar offences dating back to 2005.

Pleaded guilty to arranging or facilitating a child sexual offence, attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child, attempting to cause or incite a child to engage in sexual activity, breaching sex offender notification requirements, and attempting to meet a girl under 16 by grooming. He has a significant record of seven convictions for paedophilic offences, including indecent assault and breaches of prevention orders. The judge described him as a predatory paedophile who struggles to control his urges.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Curtis Baker

Possession with intent to supply a Class A drug

June 26, 2025

Sentence: 2 years and 4 months imprisonment

Curtis Baker was stopped by police after being seen making a short exchange in his car in Bridgend on June 6, 2024. He attempted to grab his phone and flee during the stop. Officers found cash in his car, and messages on his phone suggested involvement in drug supply. A search of his house revealed a bag of cocaine and digital weighing scales.

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