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Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court Sentencing Results

Explore 126 verdicts at Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court (Merthyr Tydfil). Updated with the latest court outcomes.

Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court
March 2026 15 cases
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
February 2026 3 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.
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.
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.
January 2026 3 cases
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.
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.
Mark Wheeler
Intentional strangulation and assault occasioning actual bodily harm *
Sentence
30 months imprisonment
Mark Wheeler, 48, of Main Road, Gwaelod-y-Garth, Cardiff, strangled his partner until she lost consciousness on October 25, 2025, after an argument while heavily intoxicated. He laughed and accused her of pretending when she regained consciousness, then strangled her again. On October 28, 2025, he assaulted her again by punching her in the head, strangling her, and hitting her twice over the head with an empty vodka bottle, threatening to kill her. The victim suffered bruises to her head and arm, and aching to her neck and shoulders. The relationship was described as extremely toxic due to his violent behaviour.
Pleaded guilty to two counts of intentional strangulation and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. No previous convictions. Alcoholism cited in mitigation but not as an excuse. Judge Jeremy Jenkins described the acts as the ultimate act of cowardice.
December 2025 10 cases
Chanelle Guest
Causing serious injury by dangerous driving *
Sentence
21-month detention suspended for 21 months, 100 hours unpaid work, 2-year driving ban
On May 17, 2025, in the car park of Brecon High School, Chanelle Guest, then 17, was driving a Renault Clio she was not insured for. The 17-year-old victim sat on the bonnet while she drove, and during a right-hand turn, he fell off, striking his head on the road. He sustained a fractured skull, multiple brain bruises, bleeding, and a permanent brain injury affecting short-term memory and daily life. Guest and friends rushed to help; emergency services found him bleeding from his ear and semi-conscious. She admitted the offence.
Of good character prior to offence. Utterly remorseful. Judge noted tragic accident due to youthful behaviour, no ill will from victim's parents.
Dafydd Evans
Controlling prostitution for gain *
Sentence
45 months imprisonment
Dafydd Evans, 61, of The Hayes, Cathays, used the Grindr dating app to recruit vulnerable men from Ukraine and Brazil to work as prostitutes at his massage parlour in Cardiff. He ran the operation under the guise of a legitimate business, advertising massages and sexual services online, including prices and acts available. Evans provided the premises and equipment like condoms and lubricant, taking 50% commission from earnings, making around £40,000. Money passed through his bank accounts under business names StickyBirds.com and Adore Vanilla. He was also convicted of possessing indecent images of prepubescent boys engaging in sexual activity with each other and adults, and planned to travel to Turkey to meet young boys before his arrest.
Made subject to sex offender notification requirements and a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for 10 years. Pleaded not guilty but convicted by jury. Judge described him as a common pimp who preyed on vulnerable men. One prior conviction for causing death by dangerous driving. Became a mentor in prison.
Liam Jonathan
Possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence *
Sentence
14 months imprisonment
On May 27, 2025, Liam Jonathan was seen on Waunrhydd Road in Tonyrefail holding and brandishing a black imitation handgun, resembling a Glock, pointing it at traffic on the A4119 bridge and holding it sideways like in gangster films. He approached people at a bus stop, fiddled with the weapon, claimed he had done time for armed robbery, said he had the gun to protect women, children, and himself from gangsters and drug dealers, and later admitted it was a water pistol. He boarded a bus, flashed the weapon's handle at the driver when asked to hurry, leading to police intervention. Officers arrested him after a struggle, recovering the non-functioning air pistol from his waistband, along with a kitchen knife and screwdriver in his bags. The incident caused significant fear and distress to the public.
Pleaded guilty. 20% discount applied. Has 19 previous convictions including violence, robbery, and public disorder. Was suffering from a hypomanic episode due to stopping bipolar medication.
Ieuan Crump
Sexual Assault *
Sentence
9 years imprisonment
Ieuan Crump, 27, of Gwerthonor Lane, Gilfach, Caerphilly, sexually assaulted two vulnerable female patients at the Grange Hospital in Cwmbran in August 2021 while working as a trainee health worker. He targeted young women in physical pain who had been given oramorph pain medication, leading to confusion. On the first victim, he performed unnecessary bladder scans, touched her vagina, groin, anus, and around her breasts without clinical reason, and assaulted her with his finger in private after his female colleague left the room. On the second victim, post-surgery and disorientated, he placed a finger inside her vagina under the guise of medical treatment, touched her genitals during a bladder scan, opened her legs, and conducted further assaults without gloves. The victims suffered severe psychological harm, including PTSD, anxiety, suicide attempts, loss of trust in healthcare, and life disruptions. Crump denied the charges but was unanimously convicted after a trial at Cardiff Crown Court.
Found guilty of nine charges of sexual assault, including three counts of assault by penetration. Will serve two thirds in custody before release. Subject to sex offender notification requirements for life and restraining orders in respect of each victim. Defence described him as a young man of previous good character who volunteered for St John Ambulance.
Kushi Alket
Cannabis production *
Sentence
9 months imprisonment
Kushi Alket, 35, of Hillfield Road, Selsey, West Sussex, was discovered tending to a cannabis factory at Hirwaun Industrial Estate after police were alerted to a burglary at eight separate units on June 3, 2025. The factory consisted of three rooms with a total of 424 cannabis plants (104 in the first room full of soil, 202 in the second room, and 118 in the third room full of soil), cultivation equipment, and a living area with beds, a fridge, and two air pistols. Some plants were stolen during the burglary. Alket was identified via CCTV footage, a vehicle registered in his name, and fingerprints on objects inside the unit. He was arrested on September 5, 2025, in Hampshire. The potential yield was up to 16.9kg with a value between £27,400 and £87,800.
Pleaded guilty to cannabis production. No previous convictions. Albanian national. Sentence allows immediate release due to time spent in custody (over three months).
Roxanne Gilder
Possession with intent to supply cocaine *
Sentence
21 months imprisonment suspended for 24 months with 15 day rehabilitation activity requirement
Roxanne Gilder, 33, of Penrhys Road, was involved in the supply of cocaine alongside her partner Tony Mann. On August 23, 2025, they were arrested by South Wales Police's organised crime unit in Tylorstown, Rhondda. A search of her home revealed 118g of cocaine in a takeaway pot, drug paraphernalia, a tick list, a knuckleduster, uncounted cash, and a phone with messages directing drug runners and discussing debts. The operation involved coordinating supplies to customers, with Gilder playing a subordinate role.
Pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply cocaine, being concerned in the supply of cocaine, and possession of an offensive weapon. Of previous good character. Played a lesser and subordinate role to co-defendant Tony Mann.
Tony Mann
Possession with intent to supply cocaine *
Sentence
57 months imprisonment
Tony Mann, 28, of Miskin Road, Trealaw, Tonypandy, was involved in the supply of cocaine alongside his partner Roxanne Gilder. On August 23, 2025, they were arrested by South Wales Police's organised crime unit in Tylorstown, Rhondda. A search of Gilder's home in Penrhys Road revealed 118g of cocaine in a takeaway pot, drug paraphernalia, a tick list, a knuckleduster, uncounted cash, and a phone with messages directing drug runners and discussing debts. At Mann's address, two SIM cards and a diary were found. Mann was found with £205 cash and a phone. The phones contained evidence of coordinating drug supplies to customers.
Pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply cocaine and being concerned in the supply of cocaine. Has six previous convictions for possession of cannabis and possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence. In mitigation, abandoned by family and was homeless for a period in Swansea. Judge noted he became indebted to supplier and involved partner in selling drugs, describing it as a substantial, professional operation.
Rhys Lloyd
Sexual activity with underage girl *
Sentence
Sentence not specified
Rhys Lloyd, now 21, had sex with an underage girl in a car after 'taking advantage' of her.
Judge told him his actions were 'utterly reprehensible' after engaging in sexual activity with an underage girl.
Alfie Wheeler
Arson with intent to endanger life *
Sentence
Sentence not specified
Alfie Wheeler, 19, and Auryn Gustur, 19, admitted their involvement in starting the fire at a terraced house in Protheroe Street, Ferndale.
Admitted arson with intent to endanger life; fire destroyed a house.
Auryn Gustur
Arson with intent to endanger life *
Sentence
Sentence not specified
Alfie Wheeler, 19, and Auryn Gustur, 19, admitted their involvement in starting the fire at a terraced house in Protheroe Street, Ferndale.
Admitted arson with intent to endanger life; fire destroyed a house.
November 2025 11 cases
Ashley Murphy
Concerned in supply of cocaine *
Sentence
2 years and 4 months imprisonment
Ashley Murphy, 37, of Cefn Bryn, Trebanog, Porth, was present during the arrest on March 26, 2025. Phone searches revealed evidence of active involvement in the supply of Class A drugs, including offers for sales.
Phone indicated active involvement in drug supply, including sales offers; present during arrest.
Kyle Hughes
Concerned in supply of cocaine, production of cannabis, possession with intent to supply cocaine *
Sentence
5 years and 11 months imprisonment
On March 26, 2025, Kyle Hughes, 31, of Penrhys Avenue, Tylorstown, was stopped by police in his Renault Megane and searched, recovering £7,000 in cash. A search of his home revealed a cannabis farm with 17 plants. Phone evidence showed recent financial transfer from Sara Qamber and involvement in drug supply.
Stopped in vehicle with £7,000 cash; home contained cannabis farm with 17 plants; phone evidence of drug transactions.
Matthew Perkins
Concerned in supply of cocaine, possession with intent to supply cocaine, possession of cocaine *
Sentence
5 years and 7 months imprisonment
On March 26, 2025, around 6.45pm, Matthew Perkins, 43, of Upper Gynor Place, Ynyshir, Porth, was arrested after paying Kyle Hughes £25,000 for involvement in the supply of Class A drugs. A large quantity of cocaine was found at his property.
Paid £25,000 to Hughes; large quantity of cocaine found at his property, which he denied knowledge of.
Stephen Williams
Concerned in supply of cocaine *
Sentence
2 years and 9 months imprisonment
On March 26, 2025, officers from South Wales Police's Organised Crime Unit searched the property of Stephen Williams, 41, on East Road, Tylorstown, Ferndale, where they found a locked safe containing 1,681 grams of cocaine, weighing scales, sandwich bags for packaging drugs, and other drug paraphernalia. Williams claimed the safe belonged to Kyle Hughes.
Found with locked safe containing 1,681 grams of cocaine, weighing scales, and packaging materials.
Sara Qamber
Concerned in supply of cocaine *
Sentence
2 years and 7 months imprisonment
Sara Qamber, 30, of Park View, Llanharan, Pontyclun, was present during the arrest on March 26, 2025. Phone evidence showed messages discussing drug transactions and a recent financial transfer to Kyle Hughes.
Phone contained messages discussing drug transactions and connections with Hughes; present during arrest.
Richard James Pugh
Supplying a minor with alcohol *
Sentence
£500 fine plus £200 surcharge and £650 costs
Richard James Pugh, a 41-year-old former head of science at Llangatwg Community School in Neath, messaged a child pupil on social media and provided her with unwanted attention. He gave her a Christmas card signed 'your best buddy' with a kiss, and placed a gift bag in her school bag containing a can of Malibu and pineapple, biscuits, iced coffees, a Nando's voucher, and a vape in early January 2025. The child felt anxious, isolated, vulnerable, and affected in her education due to his actions.
Pleaded guilty to supplying a minor with alcohol. Judge noted he could not tell the truth and damaged trust in his profession. 12-month restraining order granted separately.
Leon Patrick
Conspiracy to produce class C controlled drugs *
Sentence
31 months imprisonment
Leon Patrick, 31, from Kent, was involved in operating an illegal Valium factory at a vehicle repair garage in Rudry Road, Newport, where over 200,000 tablets of MDMA (Class A) and Bromazolam (Class C) were manufactured using pill packaging and labelling machinery. Additionally, a cannabis cultivation was hidden behind a picture frame in the garage wall, and £50,000 worth of cannabis was found at his home address. The operation was on an industrial scale with a street value of up to £200,000 for the tablets.
Pleaded guilty in August 2025. Sentenced for conspiracy to produce class C controlled drugs, production of class B controlled drug and possession with intent to supply class B controlled drugs.
James Mosley
Conspiracy to produce class C controlled drugs *
Sentence
2 years and 7 months imprisonment
James Mosley, 41, from Chepstow, was involved in operating an illegal Valium factory at a vehicle repair garage in Rudry Road, Newport, where over 200,000 tablets of MDMA (Class A) and Bromazolam (Class C) were manufactured using pill packaging and labelling machinery. A cannabis cultivation was hidden behind a picture frame in the garage wall. The operation was on an industrial scale with a street value of up to £200,000 for the tablets.
Pleaded guilty in August 2025. Sentenced for conspiracy to produce class C controlled drugs.
Barry Patrick
Conspiracy to produce class C controlled drugs *
Sentence
2 years and 7 months imprisonment
Barry Patrick, 38, from Kent, was involved in operating an illegal Valium factory at a vehicle repair garage in Rudry Road, Newport, where over 200,000 tablets of MDMA (Class A) and Bromazolam (Class C) were manufactured using pill packaging and labelling machinery. Additionally, a cannabis cultivation was hidden behind a picture frame in the garage wall, and £50,000 worth of cannabis was found at his home address. The operation was on an industrial scale with a street value of up to £200,000 for the tablets.
Pleaded guilty in August 2025. Sentenced for conspiracy to produce class C controlled drugs (Benzodiazepines), production of class B controlled drug (cannabis), possession with intent to supply class B controlled drugs (cannabis) and possession with intent to supply class A controlled drugs (MDMA).
Alun Yhnell
Conspiracy to produce class C controlled drugs *
Sentence
3 years and 6 months imprisonment
Alun Yhnell, 40, from Newport, was involved in operating an illegal Valium factory at a vehicle repair garage in Rudry Road, Newport, where over 200,000 tablets of MDMA (Class A) and Bromazolam (Class C) were manufactured using pill packaging and labelling machinery. A cannabis cultivation was hidden behind a picture frame in the garage wall. The operation was on an industrial scale with a street value of up to £200,000 for the tablets.
Found guilty by a jury. Sentenced for conspiracy to produce class C controlled drugs.
David Yates
Inflicting grievous bodily harm *
Sentence
10 months imprisonment suspended for 18 months
On the afternoon of May 15, 2024, a dispute between neighbours on Hafod View Close in Brynmawr escalated into violence. David Yates, aged 67, approached the victim after she parked her car in a communal area and exchanged heated words. He then shoved her in the chest with both hands, causing her to fall into her car and then to the ground. The victim suffered three fractured ribs, a haematoma to the right hip, bleeding in an eye, cuts and bruises to her face and body, and a minor heart attack. She spent two weeks in hospital and will require blood-thinning medication for life. Yates initially denied the assault, claiming she stumbled, but later accepted responsibility.
Pleaded guilty to inflicting grievous bodily harm. No previous convictions. Ordered to complete a rehabilitation course and pay £1,000 in compensation. Judge noted lack of remorse but suspended sentence.
October 2025 4 cases
Alan Pearson
Fraud by false representation *
Sentence
2 years imprisonment suspended for 2 years, £2,000 fine, £1,000 prosecution costs, statutory surcharge
Alan Pearson, 65, previously of Corporation Road, Newport, committed four offences of fraud by false representation between March and September 2018. He falsely told victims in Chepstow, Bristol, Lydney, and Stourport-on-Severn that they were entitled to government grants for external wall installations, pressuring them into paying discounted fees. He lulled victims into a false sense of security and used unapproved, shoddy builders, leaving their homes in ruins and utter devastation. Victims paid a total of £30,333.12, with one paying £18,759. The scam was uncovered after a complaint to Newport City Council, investigated by Wales Trading Standards and the council's team.
Pleaded not guilty but found guilty after trial. Previous convictions include seven fraud offences. Sentence suspended due to ill health including cancer treatment, lung and cardiovascular issues, and poor mental health.
Aaron Stenning
Exposure and breach of SHPO *
Sentence
15 weeks imprisonment
On July 31, 2025, around 3am, Aaron Stenning, intoxicated after celebrating his birthday, returned to his home in Abercynon, pulled his shirt over his head, exposed himself, masturbated in the street, and filmed himself with his mobile phone. No one was present, but he was caught on camera, leading to his arrest. On August 8, officers found he had created a social media account under a false name, breaching his SHPO.
Pleaded guilty to exposure and breach of a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO). Previously received 20 months imprisonment suspended for 24 months for possessing category A indecent images of children and extreme pornography. In mitigation, difficult childhood mentioned, offence described as a 'kink'.
Richard Skelly
Supply of class A drugs *
Sentence
33 months imprisonment
Richard Skelly, 40, of Merthyr Tydfil, was involved in the supply of heroin, crack cocaine, and cocaine. His mobile phone, seized during a police operation in July 2025, contained messages indicating drug dealing, such as requests for 'white' (cocaine), 'gear' (heroin), and '20 bag' (crack cocaine), along with text bombs advertising availability. He was arrested following a search and interviewed but made no comment. After his 17-year marriage ended, he became addicted to heroin, leading to a chaotic life, though he is now drug-free and seeks to become a counsellor.
Pleaded guilty to three counts of being concerned in the supply of class A drugs. Has eight previous convictions, including supplying cocaine for which he received 54 months imprisonment. Turned to drugs after marriage breakdown; previously earned £140,000 a year as construction manager. Judge warned of significant custodial sentence for a third drug trafficking offence.
Dylan Davies
Possession with intent to supply class A drugs *
Sentence
44 months imprisonment
On June 26, 2025, police raided Dylan Davies' home in Merthyr Tydfil, finding a green bag with 7g of crack cocaine (worth £200-£300), a carrier bag with 168g of cocaine (worth £7,800-£13,000), another bag with 58g of crack cocaine (worth £1,200-£3,000), £300 in cash, and scales with white powder residue. Davies claimed the drugs were for personal use but refused to provide his phone PIN. He resides on Swansea Road.
Pleaded guilty to two counts of possession with intent to supply class A drugs. Has seven previous convictions including possession with intent to supply crack cocaine and assaulting emergency workers, for which he was previously sentenced to 31 months imprisonment. Judge Simon Mills noted that the defendant's childhood with police raids and drugs was no excuse.
September 2025 2 cases
Jade Jones
Possession of indecent image, prohibited image, and extreme pornography *
Sentence
Six months imprisonment suspended for two years, 15-day rehabilitation activity requirement, and subject to the sex offenders register and a sexual harm prevention order for seven years
Jade Jones was found in possession of a category B image of a child, Hentai-style cartoons depicting child sexual abuse, and a fictitious story about parents sexually abusing their baby. She blamed her father for downloading the material but was convicted after a trial. Evidence from her phone showed a fascination with Japanese culture, and the judge referred to the story as truly horrendous.
Found guilty by a jury; judge described evidence as overwhelming; maintains innocence; suffered from anxiety and depression; lost employment due to back injury.
Kyle Walker
Possession with intent to supply cannabis *
Sentence
85 weeks imprisonment
Kyle Walker, 30, of Alice Crescent, Chepstow, was driving a silver Vauxhall Zafira in Burnt Barn Road, Chepstow, on June 22, 2024, when pulled over by police. He smelled of cannabis and appeared under the influence. A search of the car revealed a bag containing 29g of cannabis and a mobile phone with incriminating messages, including a tick list of debtors and communications consistent with supplying various amounts of cannabis. He had become involved with London-based drug dealers found in possession of firearms and ammunition.
Pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply cannabis and being concerned in the supply of cannabis. Judge warned him not to associate with drug dealers from London. Time on remand deducted. Previous suspended sentence for supplying cannabis. Spent time on remand; suffers from bladder and urology problems due to ketamine use.
August 2025 2 cases
Liton Ahmed
Sexual assault *
Sentence
18 years imprisonment
Liton Ahmed, aged 47, from Butetown, Cardiff, committed sexual offences against children, including six counts of sexually assaulting a girl by touching and one count of attempting to sexually assault a girl by touching. He was found guilty following a trial at Cardiff Crown Court in April, with sentencing occurring at Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court on August 26, 2025.
Denied six counts of sexually assaulting a girl by touching and one count of attempting to sexually assault a girl by touching, but was found guilty after a trial. Must sign the Sex Offenders’ Register for an indefinite period, subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, and prohibited from contacting victims by a restraining order. DC Steven Taylor commended the victims' courage and noted the traumatic experience for all involved.
Samantha Evans
Allowing premises to be used for the supply of cannabis *
Sentence
18-month community order and 100 hours of unpaid work
Samantha Evans allowed her family home to be used for packaging and supplying drugs. Police discovered a drug packaging station in the hallway of the house during a search on May 22, 2025, and found cannabis. Messages on Kurt Lavender's phone indicated her bank details were used for drug-related payments.
Pleaded guilty to allowing premises to be used for drug supply. Her relationship with Kurt Lavender has ended, as confirmed by her counsel.

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

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 126 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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