Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court Sentencing Results

Explore 181 verdicts at Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court (Merthyr Tydfil). Updated with the latest court outcomes.

June 2026 2 cases

Simon Morris

Possession of an offensive weapon and criminal damage *

Sentence

6 months imprisonment

Simon Morris, 48, arrived at a woman's house at around 6:40am on April 28, 2026, carrying an axe. He kicked the front door repeatedly and shouted threats including 'I'll chop you all up. Open the door now.' He then used the axe to hit the door, causing damage. The victim was not present but later viewed CCTV footage and was petrified. Morris was arrested on April 30 and gave 'no comment' in interview. He later pleaded guilty to possession of an offensive weapon and criminal damage.

Pleaded guilty to possession of an offensive weapon and criminal damage. Also made subject to a restraining order for two years. He has 22 previous convictions including violent offences and possessing a bladed article.

5 Jun 2026

Stephen Thomas

Rape of a female under 16 *

Sentence

15 years imprisonment

Stephen Thomas, 51, from Merthyr, carried out repeated attacks on a victim over a period of five years. In May, he was found guilty of one count of rape of a female under 16 and seven counts of assault of a girl under 13. He was sentenced to 15 years in prison at Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court on Friday, June 5, 2026.

Also given a sexual harm prevention order prohibiting unsupervised contact with any female child under 16. Detective Constable Emily Barnett praised the victim's courage.

5 Jun 2026

May 2026 1 case

Jason Ford

Sexual assault, racially/religiously aggravated harassment, battery, and common assault *

Sentence

57 weeks imprisonment

On 31 January, Ford entered the King Alfred pub in Maesteg swigging from a bottle of vodka, told a woman he was a 'dangerous man' and in a 'gang', rubbed her back, pushed her shoulder, tried to wrap his hand around her and leaned in for a kiss. After being taken to hospital, he grabbed a nurse’s right breast with force, causing immense pain. He picked up a fire extinguisher and brandished it at a nurse, threatened a security officer, and racially abused a police officer using slurs and death threats. He later told police he was an alcoholic and had no memory of the incidents.

Pleaded guilty to sexual assault, racially/religiously aggravated harassment, battery and two counts of common assault. Prior convictions for assaulting police officers. Judge described the behaviour as 'totally abhorred'.

14 May 2026

April 2026 12 cases

Kieran Olden

Assault by penetration *

Sentence

seven years imprisonment

Kieran Olden, 34, of Golwg Yr Afon, Aberdare, sexually assaulted a 16-year-old girl by penetration after she had fallen asleep under the influence of MDMA and alcohol following a night out. He pulled up her dress and put his hands inside her underwear. She woke up during the attack but he continued. The victim confided in her mother about a year later. Olden also committed two counts of common assault by pushing a woman and throwing a scooter at another woman.

Denied a count of assault by penetration but found guilty by a jury following a trial. Also sentenced for two counts of common assault. Made subject to sex offender notification requirements for life. Sentenced by Recorder Benjamin Blakemore. Mitigation noted family financial impact and employment history.

25 Apr 2026

Theodore Hopes

Making threats to kill *

Sentence

Two-year community order with 30-day rehabilitation activity requirement and 12-month prohibited activity requirement

Theodore Hopes, 18, from Llandrindod Wells, made threats to kill at Newtown College, where he attended. He was visited by police at his father's home on 8th December 2025, where they confiscated a legally-owned air rifle. During questioning, he admitted dreaming about killing people and expressed a desire to shoot or stab people at the college. A nine-page document titled 'Theo Hopes Mass Murderer' was found on his phone, intended to be sent after committing a serious crime and his death. The phone also contained Nazi materials, including a video of him performing a Nazi salute while watching Hitler, an English translation of Mein Kampf, and research into weapons, bombs, school attacks, and terrorist incidents.

Pleaded guilty to making threats to kill. Of previous good character. Described as remorseful, isolated due to mental health issues, alcohol and drug use. Attitudes noted as misogynistic and far right. Already served three and a half months in custody. Placed under probation supervision.

16 Apr 2026

Sara Richards

Breeding dogs without a licence under section 13 of the Animal Welfare Act *

Sentence

Fined £250

Sara Richards, 35, of Werfa Lane in Abernant, ran an unlicensed breeding business Hafwenna Dalmatians from her home at Coed Cae Farm in Aberdare. Between 2021 and 2025, she bred Dalmatians regularly, producing 88 puppies across three litters and registering 11 litters with the Kennel Club. She placed eight advertisements listing puppies for sale at prices from £950 to £2,500. Despite reports to Rhondda Cynon Taf council and the RSPCA, warnings, a refused licence application due to unsuitable property conditions, and three missed interview invitations, she continued operations. On 25 November, council officers found 11 adult dogs and 23 puppies on site.

Pleaded guilty to three offences under section 13 of the Animal Welfare Act. No previous convictions. Judge Christopher Felstead noted she ignored authorities and continued breeding without a licence. Suffers from health conditions including arthritis, unemployed and reliant on father for support.

16 Apr 2026

John Lamont

Dangerous driving and outraging public decency *

Sentence

16 months imprisonment

On July 8, 2025, John Lamont drove a stolen Renault Arkana SUV on Cowbridge Road East in Cardiff, colliding with an ambulance, mounting the kerb, striking bollards, and becoming stuck. He refused a sample for analysis but admitted to snorting cocaine and drinking. This occurred shortly after a suspended sentence for shoplifting. On March 14, 2025, at Cemetery Park in Adamsdown, Cardiff, he exposed his penis and buttocks at a children's play area, witnessed by a mother and her daughter.

Pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, failing to provide a sample for analysis, driving without insurance, driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence, and outraging public decency. 10 previous convictions for 33 offences. Barrister noted impending fatherhood, family bereavement, and job offers. Judge commented on appalling driving and public duty to imprison immediately. Banned from driving for 2 years post-release, extended retest, victim surcharge.

13 Apr 2026

Lewis Manito

Arson *

Sentence

Not stated

Connor Pitt, 24, Auryn Gustur, 19, Alfie Wheeler, 19, and Lewis Manito, 33, all from Weston-super-Mare, carried out a petrol-fuelled arson attack on an 82-year-old woman’s home in Ferndale, Rhondda, on behalf of an organised crime group over a debt.

One of four men who pleaded guilty to carrying out a petrol-fuelled arson attack on behalf of an organised crime group over a debt; sentences ranged from nine to 18 years.

12 Apr 2026

Connor Pitt

Arson *

Sentence

Not stated

One of four men who pleaded guilty to carrying out a petrol-fuelled arson attack on behalf of an organised crime group over a debt; sentences ranged from nine to 18 years.

12 Apr 2026

Coran Davies

Supplying cocaine and cannabis *

Sentence

4 years imprisonment

Coran Davies, 23, from Porth, was involved in supplying cocaine and cannabis across the Rhondda valleys. The investigation began with a search warrant executed at a property in Treherbert on September 25, where an ounce of cocaine, cannabis, and drug paraphernalia were recovered. A phone linked to the address contained a dental selfie of Davies taken in Turkey, identified via facial recognition, and messages referencing drug supply. On March 7, 2025, Davies was arrested while driving a black Ford Fiesta in Tonypandy, with cocaine, cannabis, and thousands of pounds in cash found on him.

Pleaded guilty to drugs offences and acquiring criminal property.

9 Apr 2026

Dale Howell

Supplying cocaine and cannabis *

Sentence

3 years imprisonment

Dale Howell, 25, from Porth, was involved in supplying cocaine and cannabis across the Rhondda valleys. He was arrested on March 7, 2025, as a passenger in a black Ford Fiesta driven by Coran Davies through Tonypandy. Upon searching both men, officers found them carrying cocaine, cannabis, and thousands of pounds in cash. The case linked back to a search in Treherbert on September 25, where drugs were recovered from a related property.

Pleaded guilty to drugs offences and acquiring criminal property.

9 Apr 2026

Rhys Chalmers

Controlling and coercive behaviour *

Sentence

25 months in prison

Rhys Chalmers, 46, of Heol Mair, Penrhys, Rhondda Cynon Taf, engaged in a campaign of domestic abuse against his former partner starting in early 2025. The violence began on January 18, 2025, when he punched her in the face multiple times after drinking, causing injuries around her eyes. Further assaults included pouring urine over her on May 12, 2025, punching her on June 21, 2025, and kicking and punching her on July 16, 2025, resulting in eye injuries. He also exhibited controlling behaviour by destroying her property (smashing two television screens), using derogatory language, making false accusations of infidelity, preventing her from going out unaccompanied, and confiscating her belongings including bank cards.

Pleaded guilty to one count of controlling and coercive behaviour of a physical nature and one count of controlling and coercive behaviour of a non-physical nature. Three previous convictions for four offences, including causing actual bodily harm and criminal damage. Judge Lucy Crowther noted his unhealthy addiction to alcohol and lack of understanding of healthy relationships. Three-year restraining order imposed.

9 Apr 2026

Byron Evans

Burglary *

Sentence

3 years imprisonment

Byron Evans, of Banna Park Bungalows, Nantyglo, broke into a property in the Gurnos area of Merthyr Tydfil and stole a Ford Transit van, which he later crashed. He pleaded guilty to burglary and aggravated vehicle taking.

Pleaded guilty to charges of burglary and aggravated vehicle taking. Also disqualified from driving for 16 months following release.

6 Apr 2026

Moynul Janu

Attempted kidnap *

Sentence

ongoing detention in a mental health facility

On 3 July 2025, Moynul Janu approached a girl under the age of five playing in water fountains at Victoria Park, Cardiff, touched her leg, and attempted to grab two young children, stating he was 'grabbing the kids'. He was blocked by the mothers and later challenged by park staff. The following day, he attempted to force his way into a nursery in Bridgend county, pushing past staff and trying to access a locked area with 17 children, leading to a lockdown before he left.

Admitted attempted kidnap at a previous hearing. History of mental illness.

3 Apr 2026

Kamber Murrja

Cannabis cultivation *

Sentence

30 weeks in prison

On February 25, 2026, South Wales Police were contacted by the property’s letting agency regarding suspicious wiring and unpaid rent at a building in Porth. Officers searched the premises and discovered 400 cannabis plants as part of a large-scale cannabis growing operation. Drone operators spotted Murrja climbing out of a rear window and attempting to flee towards the riverbank, where he was arrested on suspicion of cannabis cultivation.

Pleaded guilty at Merthyr Magistrates’ Court on February 27.

2 Apr 2026

March 2026 28 cases

Brandon Davidson

Assault by beating *

Sentence

24 months’ imprisonment

On January 1, 2026, Brandon Davidson assaulted Thomas Ellis by punching him three times in the head outside the Royal Glamorgan Hospital in Llantrisant during an argument involving Ellis and Davidson's sister, who was pregnant. Davidson snatched Ellis' keys, demanded his sister leave the car, pursued Ellis, struck him again, and drove away in Ellis' silver Ford Fiesta. Later that day, Davidson phoned Ellis' brother threatening to stab Ellis if reported to police. On January 23, 2026, Davidson drove Jade Williams' Honda Civic without permission after dropping her off, leading to a high-speed police pursuit in Bridgend where he overtook five vehicles at over 60mph in a 30mph zone, forced two drivers to swerve, and collided with a Vauxhall Mokka near Talbot Green. He fled but was identified by a passenger. Prior to the chase, he filled the car with £60 fuel at a Texaco garage and left without paying. Davidson was disqualified from driving at the time.

Pleaded guilty to perverting the course of justice, assault by beating, aggravated vehicle-taking, taking a vehicle without consent, making off without payment, and driving while disqualified. Banned from driving for two years following release. Has 20 prior convictions including aggravated vehicle-taking, battery, assault by beating, dangerous driving, and driving without a licence. Barrister noted adverse childhood experiences, troubled upbringing, difficult relationship with parents, previous drug misuse, but has reflected in custody, secured prison work, and has job offer upon release.

31 Mar 2026

Daniel Jenkins

Strangulation *

Sentence

17 months imprisonment

Daniel Jenkins, 33, from Blackwood and of no fixed abode, strangled a woman in Blackwood on September 27, 2025. The attack was outlined by prosecutor Sol Hartley. Jenkins had a very bad record for violence and this was a serious assault.

Pleaded guilty on the day his trial was due to begin. Breached a suspended prison sentence. Judge noted his bad record for violence and that it was a serious assault and frightening experience for the victim. Also subject to a three-year restraining order and must pay a victim surcharge.

27 Mar 2026

Craig Bray

Assault by beating, harassment and burglary *

Sentence

31 months imprisonment

Craig Bray assaulted his former partner in January 2026 by throwing a can of Cherry Coke over her and slapping her during an argument at her home after accusing her of being unfaithful. He then bombarded her with around 140 phone calls over the following days, making threats including that he knew where she was, was following her, would cut her up, and stab her in the neck. In February 2026, he burgled Cartref Yn Y Coed care home in Newport by pretending to visit a grandparent and stealing a television from a communal area. The victim reported feeling anxious and unsafe in her own home.

Pleaded guilty to assault by beating, harassment and burglary. Has 12 previous convictions for 20 offences, including four for burglary. Recorder Dyfed Llion Thomas described the threats as 'unforgivably cruel'. Subject to a 10-year restraining order and must pay a victim surcharge.

26 Mar 2026

Anis Bardich

Possession with intent to supply class A drugs *

Sentence

3 years imprisonment

Anis Bardich, 28, from West Luton Place, Adamsdown, Cardiff, was caught dealing heroin and crack cocaine on February 16, 2026, in Cathays, Cardiff. He was observed making drug deals on Richmond Road, near the Woodville pub, and outside Lidl on Maindy Road. Police seized 15 wraps of heroin and 94 wraps of crack cocaine with a street value of £1,090, a Nokia burner phone used to send 1,366 bulk text messages advertising drugs, and £160 in cash. Bardich, who fled Morocco in 2014 due to persecution for his sexuality, attempted to flee when approached by officers.

Pleaded guilty to two counts of possession with intent to supply class A drugs, two counts of being concerned in the supply of class A drugs, and supplying a class A drug. Has 10 previous convictions, mostly for theft and fraud. Turned to drug dealing due to immigration status preventing work and to fund own drug habit.

25 Mar 2026

Luke Cable

Possession with intent to supply a class A drug *

Sentence

3 years imprisonment

Luke Cable, 25, of Clydach Street, Brynmawr, returned home on February 24, 2026, appearing under the influence of drugs with white powder visible beneath his nose. His father, concerned about his behaviour and believing he had a rock of cocaine, called the police. Officers found him in possession of a 46g rock of cocaine valued at £3,060 to £6,120 and a mobile phone containing messages linked to cocaine supply. Cable admitted consuming a large amount of the drug while trying to sell it to pay off debts.

Pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply a class A drug. Has three previous convictions, including 34 months for being concerned in the supply of cocaine and ketamine. Judge warned that a third class A offence would start at seven years.

25 Mar 2026

Robert Devney

Burglary *

Sentence

876 days imprisonment

Robert Devney broke into a house on Drinkwater Gardens in Newport on August 16, 2025, ransacking the property and stealing a gold necklace worth £1,500 of sentimental value along with several bank cards. The victim discovered the burglary upon returning home around 4pm. Devney used the stolen cards at nearby shops, successfully purchasing a bottle of HP sauce and a 30-gram pouch of Amber Leaf tobacco for £29 at Gaer Stores, with attempts at other shops declined. CCTV footage identified him, and his fingerprints were found on a jewellery box in the victim's bedroom. The necklace was never recovered. He has 29 previous convictions for 86 offences, including 31 for theft-related crimes, and was previously jailed in November 2025 for a separate burglary in Cardiff.

Pleaded guilty to burglary and three counts of fraud by false representation. Recorder Dyfed Thomas described the defendant’s criminal history as “frankly atrocious”. Reduction applied for guilty plea. Defence cited addictions and mental health issues, with defendant determined to turn his life around.

25 Mar 2026

Daniel Batstone

Controlling or coercive behaviour and assault occasioning actual bodily harm *

Sentence

one year and six months in prison

Daniel Batstone, 29, from Pentre, engaged in controlling and coercive behaviour and assaulted a woman over a three-year period starting from 2022. His violence included kicking the victim in the stomach while she was pregnant in 2022, and punching her in the face in August 2025. Police were called to an address in Pentre in August 2025 following a 999 call about a disturbance.

Changed his plea to guilty. Admitted one count of engaging in controlling or coercive behaviour and one count of assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

23 Mar 2026

Cailum Hill

Strangulation *

Sentence

27 months imprisonment

Cailum Hill, 22, from Mountain Ash, intentionally strangled his partner during a violent assault at her home.

Convicted of intentionally strangling his partner. The judge branded him “an aggressive bully.” Also made subject to a 10-year restraining order.

20 Mar 2026

Khoresh Ameni

Possession of a bladed article *

Sentence

12 months imprisonment

Khoresh Ameni, 19, brandished a machete at four people outside the Ibis hotel on Churchill Way, Cardiff. CCTV captured the incident on December 7 last year.

Pleaded guilty. Has previous convictions for wounding and blade possession.

20 Mar 2026

Adam Hartery

Conspiracy to supply cocaine *

Sentence

three years and six months imprisonment

Adam Hartery, 32, of Clos Yr Harbwr, Barry, was involved in a conspiracy to supply cocaine. Exchanged messages with Greening about supplying 14g of cocaine, supplied directly to users seeking permission for 'tick' sales, attempted to recruit runners, discussed making 'quick profit', and stored drugs for Greening paid in drugs. Arrested 19 September 2025.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply cocaine. Has two previous convictions for unrelated matters. Mitigation noted family man with three children, former council worker with substance issues now being addressed.

17 Mar 2026

Daniel Laity

Conspiracy to supply cocaine *

Sentence

27 months imprisonment

Daniel Laity, 31, of St Nicholas Road, Barry, was involved in a conspiracy to supply cocaine. Acted as runner for Greening supplying drugs to customers under direction, collected cash, and was sold wholesale quantities by Greening for onward supply. Arrested 19 September 2025.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply cocaine. No previous convictions. Mitigation noted involvement to fund habit with limited knowledge of operation scale, mental health issues from withdrawal now managed with medication.

17 Mar 2026

Ryan Greening

Conspiracy to supply cocaine *

Sentence

six years imprisonment

Ryan Greening, 32, of Charlotte Place, Barry, was involved in a conspiracy to supply cocaine. He supplied heavily adulterated cocaine to a youth, recruited and directed the youth as a runner to supply drugs and send bulk advertising texts, handled street deals of 0.5g to 3.5g, supplied wholesale ounce quantities to downstream dealers, supplied on credit and 'tick', and discussed drug debts. Arrested 19 September 2025.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply cocaine. Has six previous convictions, including possession with intent to supply a class B drug and being concerned in the supply of a class A drug. Mitigation noted grandfather's illness and family regret.

17 Mar 2026

Alex Jones

Being concerned in the supply of cocaine and cannabis *

Sentence

4 years and 2 months imprisonment

Alex Jones, 31, of Windrush Close, Bettws, Newport, was involved in drug dealing activities between 1 September 2025 and 29 December 2025. He sent mass text messages advertising cocaine for sale and distributed images of cannabis to potential buyers. Devices showed communication with an upscale supplier for purchasing cannabis. He was arrested on Christmas Day 2025 on Monnow Way in the Bettws area after attempting to flee from a vehicle as a passenger. Police found £655 in cash and two mobile phones with evidence of his activities. He became involved again due to a drug debt to higher members of the supply chain.

Pleaded guilty to being concerned in making an offer to supply cocaine, being concerned in the supply of cannabis, possession of criminal property and possession of cannabis. Has 25 previous convictions for 34 offences, including robbery, wounding, burglary and theft. Offences committed while on licence after previous 45-month sentence for similar drug offences. Must pay £228 victim surcharge upon release.

16 Mar 2026

Khalid Miah

Assault occasioning actual bodily harm *

Sentence

13 months' imprisonment

Khalid Miah, 36, of Heol Nant, Cilfynydd, assaulted his neighbour Richard Lydiard at the victim's home in Cilfynydd, Pontypridd, on December 29, 2025, following a dispute over a broadband box. Miah accused Lydiard of stealing his broadband box and swapping it for a broken one. When Lydiard denied it and told him to leave, Miah tried to force his way into the flat, leading to a scuffle where Miah threw punches and kicks, knocking out Lydiard's tooth and attempting to stomp on his head before the door was shut. Police were called, and Miah was arrested. He denied the assault in interview, claiming self-defence. The victim reported being terrified, shocked, and suffering ongoing fear and anxiety.

Pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Had previous convictions including assault occasioning actual bodily harm, battery and affray. In mitigation, offence rooted in delusional belief victim had stolen from him and diagnosed with depressive condition. Subject to restraining order for five years.

11 Mar 2026

Lee Evans

Assault *

Sentence

imprisonment

Lee Evans, 40, punched his partner in the forehead after accusing her of cheating, then told her to wash off the blood in the shower.

Left partner needing surgery after brutal attack.

10 Mar 2026

Jonathan Pike

Robbery *

Sentence

3 years imprisonment

Jonathan Pike, along with Jason Colin and Matthew Winstone, was spotted acting suspiciously near Hong Kong Lane and Merthyr Tydfil law courts at around 7.30pm on Sunday, February 1, 2026. CCTV footage showed the three men approaching the victim and speaking with him for around 10 minutes before the assault began. Pike launched a violent attack, repeatedly punching and kneeing the victim in the head, while Colin rifled through the victim's jacket pockets and Winstone made off with a large suitcase belonging to the victim.

Pleaded guilty to robbery.

10 Mar 2026

Jason Colin

Robbery *

Sentence

3 years imprisonment

Jason Colin, along with Jonathan Pike and Matthew Winstone, was spotted acting suspiciously near Hong Kong Lane and Merthyr Tydfil law courts at around 7.30pm on Sunday, February 1, 2026. CCTV footage showed the three men approaching the victim and speaking with him for around 10 minutes before the assault began. While Pike launched a violent attack, repeatedly punching and kneeing the victim in the head, Colin rifled through the victim's jacket pockets, and Winstone made off with a large suitcase belonging to the victim.

Pleaded guilty to robbery.

10 Mar 2026

Majid Ali

Rape *

Sentence

imprisonment

Majid Ali, 56, slapped his victim across the face, punched her, grabbed her by the throat, and bit her while raping her.

Treated victim like an animal and threatened to kill her during the assault.

10 Mar 2026

Paul Gurney

Assault occasioning actual bodily harm and criminal damage *

Sentence

18 months imprisonment

Paul Gurney, 33, formerly of Merlin’s Bridge but now of no fixed abode, broke into his ex-partner’s home on October 1, 2025, smashing a window on the door and forcing his way inside. He grabbed his former partner, spat in her face, and threw her to the ground where she landed on the broken glass, suffering cuts to her knees. On October 6, 2025, he turned up uninvited at her Haverfordwest home, grabbed her by the throat, pinned her against a wall, and punched the wall next to her head twice, causing damage to the property. The relationship, which began in 2024, was described as volatile and toxic, with Gurney exhibiting jealousy. He had 42 previous convictions from 30 court appearances and was subject to two suspended sentences at the time of the offences.

Initially denied the offences but pleaded guilty on the morning of his trial. Sentence included activation of two months from prior suspended sentences. Judge commented that the defendant was in a rage, out of control, violent and aggressive towards the victim. Defence highlighted difficult upbringing, gaps in criminal history, and productive use of time in custody completing courses. A five-year restraining order was granted to protect the victim.

10 Mar 2026

Matthew Winstone

Robbery *

Sentence

3 years imprisonment

Matthew Winstone, along with Jason Colin and Jonathan Pike, was spotted acting suspiciously near Hong Kong Lane and Merthyr Tydfil law courts at around 7.30pm on Sunday, February 1, 2026. CCTV footage showed the three men approaching the victim and speaking with him for around 10 minutes before the assault began. While Pike launched a violent attack, repeatedly punching and kneeing the victim in the head, and Colin rifled through the victim's jacket pockets, Winstone made off with a large suitcase belonging to the victim.

Pleaded guilty to robbery.

10 Mar 2026

Micahel Davies

Sexual assault and stalking *

Sentence

imprisonment

Micahel Davies sexually assaulted a teenager on a bus and, after release, began a six-year stalking campaign against his victim.

Initially imprisoned for assault, later for stalking.

10 Mar 2026

Adam Aviet

Possession with intent to supply Class B drugs *

Sentence

13 months' imprisonment

Adam Aviet, 37, was detained by officers outside the Etap Hotel in Cardiff on February 2, 2026, and told police that the drugs in a rucksack placed in a BMW by Gareth Morris belonged to him. A search uncovered 424g of cannabis in the bag, and Aviet was also found with 1g of cannabis resin.

Pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply Class B drugs. Has previous convictions for drug trafficking.

10 Mar 2026

Charlotte Cassidy

Theft *

Sentence

imprisonment

Charlotte Cassidy, 29, gave her vulnerable victim a sleeping pill, rubbed cream into his leg, sat on his lap, and along with her brother and dad stole thousands from him.

Sentenced with her brother and father; one of them only has to pay £10 back.

10 Mar 2026

Gareth Morris

Unspecified offence *

Sentence

imprisonment

Gareth Morris, 48, and Adam Aviet, 37, were involved in an incident where one looked shifty on hotel CCTV, leading to their arrest and sentencing.

Sentenced with Adam Aviet after being caught on hotel CCTV.

10 Mar 2026

Ricardo Spriggs

Unspecified offence *

Sentence

imprisonment

Police went to look for Ricardo Spriggs when he was reported missing, leading to multiple arrests and his imprisonment.

Arrested on multiple occasions after being reported missing.

10 Mar 2026

Luke Jancouski

Assault *

Sentence

one year and six months in prison

In early January 2026, three 11-year-old children were playing in Aberdare Park when they were approached by Luke Jancouski, who then attacked them. One child was poked in the eye and struck on the head, a second was punched with such force that he lost a tooth, and the third was punched in the nose. South Wales Police identified Jancouski as the attacker after reviewing CCTV footage from the park, which captured a distinctive tattoo on his hand linking him to the assault.

Pleaded guilty to two counts of assault occasioning actual bodily harm and one count of assault by beating.

5 Mar 2026

Michael Cassidy

Fraud *

Sentence

21 weeks imprisonment suspended for 21 months, 200 hours unpaid work, £10 confiscation

Michael Cassidy, 21, assisted family in defrauding vulnerable Paul William Lambert through Fix A Drive's poor quality work on Bridgend home and coercive tactics including attending victim's home uninvited, rummaging documents, and attempting to take him shopping for tiles while planning to buy Rolex for sister Charlotte. Involved in withdrawing £25,000 from pension, £17,000 to company plus £1,000. Total loss to victim £20,900.

Pleaded guilty to transferring criminal property and engaging in an unfair commercial practice. Benefited £38,952 but no available assets. POCA hearing.

2 Mar 2026

William Cassidy

Fraud *

Sentence

12 months imprisonment

William Cassidy, 53, part of family firm Fix A Drive, targeted Paul William Lambert for shoddy home improvements in Bridgend and a couple in Ogmore-by-Sea with £17,500 quote increased to £18,400, demanding upfront payments and using fraudulent card payments for materials (£3,061, £2,000, £2,500). Intimidated victims by threatening to rip up driveway with excavator, claiming Traveller community ties, and coercing female victim to withdraw money. Total loss to second victims £33,700.

Pleaded guilty to two counts of engaging in an unfair commercial practice and one count of fraud.

2 Mar 2026

February 2026 4 cases

Rudinos Sojati

Cannabis production *

Sentence

22 months imprisonment

Rudinos Sojati, 29, an electrician from Claude Road, Roath, Cardiff, was discovered tending to a sophisticated cannabis factory in a terraced house at Council Street, Penydarren, Merthyr Tydfil, on December 27, 2025. Police responded to reports of suspicious activity, including torches being shone inside the house. Upon knocking, Sojati answered with wet trousers soiled with dirt. A search revealed a wardrobe with a ladder leading to a hole in the ceiling, accessing an attic space equipped with thermal foil and industrial-grade lighting containing 45 cannabis plants valued between £4,000 and £5,200. Two phones were seized, but Sojati refused to provide PINs. He denied ownership, stating 'It's not mine. I have nothing in my address.'

Pleaded guilty to cannabis production. No previous convictions. Described as a pleasant and respectful family man with a nine-month old baby. Judge noted he had a good job, regular income, and drove over an hour to the site.

23 Feb 2026

Richard Munkley

Robbery *

Sentence

2 years and 5 months in prison

Richard Munkley, 48, from Merthyr Tydfil, committed a robbery at the Nisa Local convenience store on Brecon Road, initially reported as shoplifting but investigated as a more serious offence. He was tracked down by South Wales Police’s Safer Neighbourhood Team and identified through evidence.

Pleaded guilty to theft and robbery. Prolific offender with prior convictions.

18 Feb 2026

Marian Barbu

Theft *

Sentence

3 years imprisonment

Marian Barbu, 30, of Fulham Street, Oldham, approached an 88-year-old man withdrawing cash from Lloyds Bank in Merthyr Tydfil town centre on January 9, 2025, distracted him by saying 'Cancel' and confusing him, then took £500 from the ATM as it dispensed the money. He placed a device on the machine before walking away. The victim was left in shock and contacted police later that day. Barbu and Vasile were arrested the next day on the M5 in Gloucestershire inside a vehicle. Both were in breach of deportation orders.

Pleaded guilty to theft and knowingly entering the UK in breach of deportation order. Has 14 previous convictions including theft, robbery and deportation offence. Will be deported to Romania following sentence, separated from five children in the UK.

12 Feb 2026

Samoila Vasile

Entering UK in breach of deportation order *

Sentence

12 months imprisonment

Samoila Vasile, 21, of Fishponds Road, Bristol, walked past an 88-year-old man withdrawing cash from Lloyds Bank in Merthyr Tydfil town centre on January 9, 2025, while Marian Barbu distracted the victim and stole £500. Vasile was involved in the incident and both were arrested the next day on the M5 in Gloucestershire inside a vehicle. It was discovered Vasile was in breach of a deportation order.

Pleaded guilty to knowingly entering the UK in breach of deportation order. Has nine previous convictions including theft, robbery, and criminal damage. Remorseful, has a three-year-old daughter in Romania.

12 Feb 2026

January 2026 3 cases

Courtney Dale

Supply of class A drugs *

Sentence

3 years imprisonment

Courtney Dale, 26, of Brynbala Way, Trowbridge, Cardiff, was linked to two drugs lines advertising the sale of class A drugs, crack cocaine and heroin. During a South Wales Police operation late in 2025, the phones sent over 2,300 text messages to up to 70 people. He was arrested on December 29, 2025, with a pink iPhone, a black Nokia phone hidden behind a pipe, and £5,845 in cash seized. Dale had a drug debt and worked for drug dealers to pay it off.

Pleaded guilty to being concerned in the supply of crack cocaine and being concerned in the supply of heroin. Has 13 previous convictions for 29 offences. Will serve half in custody and remainder on licence.

26 Jan 2026

Courtney Daley

Supplying crack cocaine and heroin *

Sentence

three years imprisonment

Courtney Daley, 26, from Trowbridge, ran a lucrative drug line, flooding potential customers with bulk text messages pushing crack cocaine and heroin. Police traced the texts back to Daley, leading to his arrest and a home raid on December 29.

Admitted supplying crack cocaine and heroin.

26 Jan 2026

William Decarvalho

Possession with intent to supply class A drugs *

Sentence

28 months detention in a young offenders institute

William Decarvalho, 19, of Thesiger Street, Cathays, was caught by police in Cardiff at Fitzalan Place, Adamsdown, on his bicycle wearing a black coat and black balaclava. Officers witnessed him engaging in hand-to-hand exchanges with three known drug users. He attempted to ride off but was detained and searched, revealing four wraps of crack cocaine worth £40, £700 in cash, and a machete. A Nokia-style burner phone contained messages advertising the sale of heroin and crack cocaine, indicating he was 'live'. He had built up a drugs debt leading to being stabbed twice and shot due to associations with the underworld.

Pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply class A drugs, two counts of being concerned in the supply of class A drugs, and possession of a bladed article. Of previous good character. Immature with difficult upbringing and adverse childhood experiences leading to homelessness. Involved in drug world due to associations with the underworld, resulting in being shot and stabbed on two occasions. Judge Jeremy Jenkins noted involvement in supply of class A drugs justifies term of detention.

26 Jan 2026

Disclaimer: The information on this page is compiled from publicly available court records and published media reports. It is provided strictly for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as a definitive record of any individual's criminal history or legal status.

Offence names marked with an asterisk (*) reflect descriptions used in media reporting and may not correspond to the formal legal charge or indictment. Sentencing details are as reported and may be subject to subsequent appeal, variation, or correction by the courts.

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Law Courts, Castle St, Merthyr Tydfil CF47 8BU, Merthyr Tydfil, CF47 8BU, United Kingdom

+441685727600

Wheelchair accessible parking, Wheelchair accessible entrance

Monday - Friday: 08:30 - 17:00

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About Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court

Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court, located in Merthyr Tydfil, is a Crown Court that handles serious criminal cases including murder, rape, robbery, and other indictable offences. With 181 sentencing records in our database, it is one of the Crown Courts serving the Merthyr Tydfil area. Crown Courts sit with a judge and jury, and have the power to impose the full range of sentences available under UK law.

The court can be found at Law Courts, Castle St, Merthyr Tydfil CF47 8BU, CF47 8BU.

Accessibility provisions at this court include wheelchair accessible entrance and wheelchair accessible parking.

For enquiries about cases heard at this court, you can contact the court by telephone on +441685727600.

All sentencing information published on this page has been sourced from publicly-available records and verified by our editorial team. If you believe any information is inaccurate or should be removed, you can submit a removal request directly from the relevant listing above.

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Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court Sentencing Results

Simon Morris

Stephen Thomas

Jason Ford

Kieran Olden

Theodore Hopes

Sara Richards

John Lamont

Lewis Manito

Connor Pitt

Coran Davies

Dale Howell

Rhys Chalmers

Byron Evans

Moynul Janu

Kamber Murrja

Brandon Davidson

Daniel Jenkins

Craig Bray

Anis Bardich

Luke Cable

Robert Devney

Daniel Batstone

Cailum Hill

Khoresh Ameni

Adam Hartery

Daniel Laity

Ryan Greening

Alex Jones

Khalid Miah

Lee Evans

Jonathan Pike

Jason Colin

Majid Ali

Paul Gurney

Matthew Winstone

Micahel Davies

Adam Aviet

Charlotte Cassidy

Gareth Morris

Ricardo Spriggs

Luke Jancouski

Michael Cassidy

William Cassidy

Rudinos Sojati

Richard Munkley

Marian Barbu

Samoila Vasile

Courtney Dale

Courtney Daley

William Decarvalho

About Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court

Nearby Courts

Merthyr Tydfil Magistrates Court

Cwmbran Magistrates Court

Cardiff Crown Court

Newport (South Wales) Magistrates Court

Cardiff Magistrates Court

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