Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court Sentencing Results

Explore 81 verdicts at Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court (Merthyr Tydfil). Updated with the latest court outcomes.

Roxanne Gilder

Possession with intent to supply cocaine

December 11, 2025

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.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Tony Mann

Possession with intent to supply cocaine

December 11, 2025

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.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Rhys Lloyd

Sexual activity with underage girl

December 4, 2025

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.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Alfie Wheeler

Arson with intent to endanger life

December 4, 2025

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.

Auryn Gustur

Arson with intent to endanger life

December 4, 2025

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.

Ashley Murphy

Concerned in supply of cocaine

November 21, 2025

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.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Sara Qamber

Concerned in supply of cocaine

November 21, 2025

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.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Matthew Perkins

Concerned in supply of cocaine, possession with intent to supply cocaine, possession of cocaine

November 21, 2025

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.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Kyle Hughes

Concerned in supply of cocaine, production of cannabis, possession with intent to supply cocaine

November 21, 2025

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.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Stephen Williams

Concerned in supply of cocaine

November 21, 2025

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.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Richard James Pugh

Supplying a minor with alcohol

November 19, 2025

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.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Leon Patrick

Conspiracy to produce class C controlled drugs

November 17, 2025

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.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Barry Patrick

Conspiracy to produce class C controlled drugs

November 17, 2025

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).

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Alun Yhnell

Conspiracy to produce class C controlled drugs

November 17, 2025

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.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

James Mosley

Conspiracy to produce class C controlled drugs

November 17, 2025

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.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

David Yates

Inflicting grievous bodily harm

November 10, 2025

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.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Alan Pearson

Fraud by false representation

October 28, 2025

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.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Aaron Stenning

Exposure and breach of SHPO

October 10, 2025

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'.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Richard Skelly

Supply of class A drugs

October 10, 2025

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.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Dylan Davies

Possession with intent to supply class A drugs

October 3, 2025

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.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Jade Jones

Possession of indecent image, prohibited image, and extreme pornography

September 11, 2025

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.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Kyle Walker

Possession with intent to supply cannabis

September 2, 2025

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.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Liton Ahmed

Sexual assault

August 26, 2025

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.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Kurt Lavender

Possession with intent to supply cannabis and cocaine

August 23, 2025

Sentence: 40 months imprisonment

Kurt Lavender, a former Tesco manager, began dealing drugs after losing his job due to mental health problems and facing financial difficulties. On May 22, 2025, police observed him in a blue Peugeot car in a known drug-dealing area in Aberdare, where a transaction occurred. Officers arrested him and found £835 in cash, 6g of cocaine, and cannabis in the vehicle. A search of his home revealed a drug packaging station and additional cannabis. His phone showed messages about supplying cocaine and cannabis over three months, including to a school-aged boy. Police also recovered drug-related items from his brother's house, with total drugs valued at around £5,000.

Pleaded guilty to drug-related offences. Judge described his behaviour as utterly shameful and noted he had ruined his own life and others'. He had a prior history of mental health issues leading to job loss and financial difficulties.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Samantha Evans

Allowing premises to be used for the supply of cannabis

August 23, 2025

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.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Nathan Phillips

Assault

August 11, 2025

Sentence: 48 weeks imprisonment

On August 8, 2025, Nathan Phillips, 37, was reported for being belligerent and intoxicated at Premier Stores in Twynyrodyn, Merthyr Tydfil. He refused to leave the shop, was removed by police, and became disruptive, shouting and swearing. During arrest for a public order offence, he headbutted three officers, causing injuries including facial swelling, bruising, and pain, with one officer requiring hospital treatment and an MRI. He continued his aggressive behaviour at the police station, headbutting a third officer while handcuffed and urinating in the holding cell.

Showed no remorse and was uncooperative during arrest and custody. Police officers highlighted his violent and aggressive behaviour, with comments from Police Sergeant Lauren Cosway and Chief Superintendent Steve Jones emphasising the officers' professionalism.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Movado Hall

Wounding with intent

August 8, 2025

Sentence: 2 years and 9 months detention at a young offenders' institute

On March 30, 2025, Movado Hall threw a brick through the windscreen of Jason Talbot's car outside his home. He then brandished a machete, attacked Jason Talbot, inflicting wounds to his head, body, and back, including a fracture and wounds requiring staples. When Jonathan Talbot intervened to protect his son, Hall stabbed him in the shin, causing a deep cut. Both victims were taken to the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff for treatment. Hall and Jason Talbot were known to each other prior to the incident due to a personal dispute involving Jason's separation from his girlfriend, who was friendly with Hall.

Pleaded guilty to wounding with intent, unlawful wounding, possession of a bladed article, and criminal damage. Subject to a restraining order for five years. Had a background in rugby and previous involvement in fights and trouble.

Sources: dailypost.co.uk

Christopher Strong

Breach of sexual harm prevention order and sexual communication with a child

August 3, 2025

Sentence: 19 months imprisonment

Christopher Strong, 38, from Aberdare, who was already subject to a 10-year sexual harm prevention order, communicated sexually with a decoy he believed was a 12-year-old girl. He asked for pictures, discussed rubbing himself, and claimed to be naked during conversations, breaching his court order from a 2022 conviction.

Breached a previous sexual harm prevention order; made subject to sex offender notification requirements for seven years.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Gavin Davies-Jones

Making indecent images of children

August 1, 2025

Sentence: 10 months imprisonment, suspended for 18 months

Gavin Davies-Jones was found with thousands of indecent images of children, including 297 class A images, 234 class B images, 1,684 class C images, two extreme images involving bestiality, and one category A moving image. The images depicted children as young as four to six years old. He used search terms related to child abuse, such as 'pedo collection'. Police executed a search warrant at his home in Brecon on November 22, 2023, after receiving intelligence about downloads. During the search, he admitted his actions and expressed regret.

Pleaded guilty to three counts of making indecent images and possessing prohibited images. Of previous good character and had lost his job due to the offence. Judge Vanessa Francis noted that he has a sexual interest in children and needs to address it to avoid future offending.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Tracy Turner

Arranging child sex offence

July 28, 2025

Sentence: 12 years imprisonment with an extended licence period of two years

Tracy Turner, along with Stuart Compton, exchanged messages planning to sexually assault children, including taking a girl under 10 for a walk in woodland and a cemetery before raping and choking her in a shed, and performing sexual acts on a boy under 13. She agreed to the plans, discussed drugging another girl for abuse, and possessed indecent images sent by Compton. These discussions spanned from 2022 and were exposed following their arrests in June 2024.

Pleaded guilty to six counts of arranging a child sex offence and two counts of making indecent images. Judge highlighted her sexual interest in children and the devastating impact on victims' families. Was an NHS operating theatre assistant with a 33-year unblemished record, but suffered from stress, financial debt, low mood, anxiety, depression, and substance abuse influenced by her relationship with Compton.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Stuart Compton

Arranging child sex offence

July 28, 2025

Sentence: Life imprisonment with a minimum term of seven years

Stuart Compton engaged in explicit messages with Tracy Turner discussing the sexual assault of children, including plans to rape and choke a girl under 10 in a shed near a rail line, perform sexual acts on a boy under 13, and drug another girl under 10 for abuse. He possessed and distributed indecent images of children, expressed a preference for children aged one to six, and discussed attending events to target vulnerable children. These plans were uncovered after his arrest in June 2024.

Pleaded guilty to six counts of arranging a child sex offence, three counts of making indecent images, and three counts of distributing indecent images. Judge noted a significant risk to children and described the acts as intended but not carried out. Had issues with drug and alcohol misuse, mild depressive and anxiety disorder, chronic pain, and compulsive sexual behaviour disorder.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Iestyn Raven

Drug dealing

July 21, 2025

Sentence: £2,380 fine

Iestyn Raven was a drug dealer who filmed himself boasting about cash made from crime. Despite his illicit earnings, he applied for benefits, falsely claiming he was struggling for money. This led to his sentencing after his illegal activities were uncovered.

Applied for benefits claiming financial struggle despite earning thousands from criminal activities.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Kerry Price

Dangerous Driving

July 21, 2025

Sentence: 19 and a half months imprisonment and disqualified from driving for two years, nine months, and three weeks

Kerry Price, in a jealous and overly protective state during his relationship, followed his partner to work after a minor disagreement. He drove at her car in the car park, reversed into it at speed, forcing it down a grass bank into a bollard, and narrowly avoided colliding with a member of the public. He then drove towards his partner and her colleagues. Following this, he sent repeated threatening messages to his partner and her 61-year-old father, causing significant fear and distress. His actions were linked to his drug addiction.

Pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, harassment, and common assault. Has a significant history of violent offending and domestic violence. Judge Francis said he should be thoroughly ashamed of himself.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Brian Williams

Attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child

July 17, 2025

Sentence: 20 months imprisonment

Brian Williams, 50, of Garth Street, Merthyr Tydfil, contacted a decoy posing as a 13-year-old girl on a social media app. He sent explicit sexual messages, including asking her to 'make daddy happy' and suggesting they meet in Cardiff to 'suck his c***'. He exchanged photographs with the decoy, whose images were altered to appear younger, and admitted to deriving a thrill from such interactions, knowing they were wrong. He was confronted by a paedophile hunter group at his home on May 9, leading to his arrest and seizure of his phone. This incident occurred while he was already subject to a SHPO from a 2021 conviction.

Pleaded guilty to attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child and breaching a sexual harm prevention order (SHPO). He has a prior conviction for a similar offence and intends to undertake relevant courses while in custody.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Nicholas Bishop

Affray

July 16, 2025

Sentence: 12 months imprisonment

Nicholas Bishop, 40, of Horle Close, Grangetown, stole £720 worth of Under Armour clothing from a JD Sports branch in Cardiff on May 13, 2025, at 3.10pm, leaving without paying. When staff and bystanders pursued him, he became threatening, claiming he had a knife and stating, 'I have got a knife, I am going to stab you. Do you want to be stabbed?' and 'I am going to fill you with holes.' He pretended to produce a knife from his trousers, though he did not actually possess one. He was arrested on May 16, 2025, and found in possession of a blister pack containing Valium.

Pleaded guilty to affray, theft, and possession of class C drugs. Has long-standing drug issues, which were central to his offending. Judge Vanessa Francis remarked that he is a grown man who has been given opportunities repeatedly and should not treat shop staff in this way as they are just doing their jobs.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Sion Butcher

Sexual Assault

July 16, 2025

Sentence: 2 years imprisonment

Sion Butcher, 37, of Cardiff, sexually assaulted his victim, who was between 15 and 16 years old, by laying on top of her without consent, kissing her on the stomach, and attempting to pull down her trousers. The victim felt scared and unable to say no, and she persuaded him to stop by saying she needed to use the toilet. He was later arrested, denied the offence, but was found guilty following a trial.

Denied the offence but was found guilty at trial. Has previous convictions, though none of a sexual nature. In mitigation, he served time on remand due to drug use following a family member's death and has used his time in custody productively by completing courses and remaining drug-free. Subject to a restraining order for 5 years and sex offender notification requirements for 10 years.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Joshua Seivwright

Possession with intent to supply class A drugs

July 15, 2025

Sentence: 5 years and 7 months imprisonment

Joshua Seivwright, 22, attempted to flee from police after exiting a taxi in Newport at 4.55am on April 13, 2025, but stumbled and was detained. He was found in possession of 0.428g of crack cocaine, an iPhone, a Nokia phone, and £501 in cash. The Nokia phone contained 277 messages, including text bombs advertising drugs to customers. A search of his home revealed nothing further. He initially denied supplying drugs and claimed the cash came from a trust fund, but later admitted the offences.

Pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply class A drugs, being concerned in the supply of class A drugs, and possession of criminal property. Had 11 previous convictions for similar offences. Judge Vanessa Francis noted he was a 'man of potential' but warned of a 'revolving door' of custody if he did not change, and mentioned his addiction to crack cocaine since age 15 or 16.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Edmund Glover

Causing serious injury by dangerous driving

July 14, 2025

Sentence: 22 months imprisonment, suspended for 22 months; 25-day rehabilitation activity requirement; 80 hours unpaid work; 45-day alcohol abstinence monitoring requirement; £150 costs; 5-year driving disqualification

Edmund Glover, 40, was driving his Mercedes on the A470 between Libanus and Brecon in Powys on October 27, 2024, when he crossed into the opposite lane while under the influence of alcohol, with a blood alcohol level of 98 micrograms per 100ml. He collided head-on with another vehicle carrying a woman and her stepson, causing severe damage to both cars and deploying airbags. The victims were hospitalised; the woman suffered a displaced fracture to her left radius, a laceration and puncture wound to her right and left legs which became infected, and a severe haematoma, while the stepson sustained a fracture to his collarbone. Glover had little recollection of the event and was found wearing a dressing gown at the scene.

Pleaded guilty to two counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving. The defendant has two previous convictions for driving with excess alcohol and was described as deeply remorseful due to PTSD from his Army service.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Rebecca Vaughan

Criminal Damage

July 9, 2025

Sentence: 9 months imprisonment

Rebecca Vaughan, 44, who was addicted to crack cocaine, armed herself with a metal bar and smashed the rear window of a silver Ford Fiesta parked in Hannah Street, Porth, on October 10, 2024. The victim, an 18-year-old girl, had just returned from a chip shop when she heard the smashing sound and saw Vaughan emerging from a lane. The victim was terrified, drove away briefly, took photos of Vaughan, and called her family for help. Vaughan continued shouting and pointing at the victim, who had no idea why she was targeted. Police arrested Vaughan, who was intoxicated with slurred speech, glazed eyes, unsteady on her feet, and had dry blood on her hands, along with a small wrap of cannabis. The damage to the vehicle was valued at £454.

Pleaded guilty to possession of an offensive weapon, criminal damage, and possession of a class B drug. Has 82 previous convictions, including criminal damage, dishonesty, public disorder, battery, and threatening behaviour. Her mental health had declined due to crack cocaine use and a sad family background, with time spent on remand deducted from the sentence.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Shaun Lampitt

Rape of a child under 13

July 9, 2025

Sentence: 4 years imprisonment, restraining order for 5 years, and sex offender notification requirements indefinitely

Shaun Lampitt repeatedly raped his sister, Catherine Dixon, on three occasions when she was as young as nine years old during the 1980s and 1990s. He threatened to kill her if she told anyone, was aggressive and violent towards her, including making her scrub herself, and justified his actions by claiming he needed to know what to do with his girlfriend. The abuse was reported decades later, leading to his conviction, and the victim described it as taking away her childhood and causing long-term trauma.

Denied the offences but was found guilty after a trial. No previous convictions. Judge noted the severe psychological harm to the victim and that the offences were carried out through coercion, exploitation, and pressure.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Jarrad Wicks

Causing serious injury by dangerous driving

June 24, 2025

Sentence: 27 months imprisonment and 39 months driving ban

Jarrad Wicks was operating an unlicensed taxi using a VW Caddy van. On October 22, 2022, he picked up passengers via Snapchat and drove them from Pentre to Porth. While exceeding the 30mph speed limit, reaching up to 40mph, his passenger pulled the handbrake, causing the van to swerve, mount the pavement, and strike a 16-year-old boy walking home after watching TV with friends. The van then collided with a wall, resulting in severe injuries to the victim, including a partial leg amputation. Wicks was arrested at the scene and showed emotion regarding the victim's welfare.

Pleaded guilty to causing serious injury by dangerous driving. Was working as a bus driver and lost employment as a result. Behaviour described as immature and reckless, and he expressed deep remorse.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Gareth Evans

Possession of heroin with intent to supply

June 19, 2025

Sentence: 45 months imprisonment

On January 30, 2025, police stopped Gareth Evans's vehicle near Merthyr and found five wraps of heroin. A subsequent search of his home uncovered £850 in cash, heroin sufficient for approximately 700 street deals worth more than £21,000, weighing scales, drug paraphernalia, and 10 boxes of bromazepam pills. Evans had previously been involved in similar offenses and answered 'no comment' during his police interview.

Pleaded guilty to possession of heroin with intent to supply and simple possession of bromazepam. Judge noted he was running a widespread and financially-thriving business, and considered his prior convictions.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Mark Workman

Assault occasioning actual bodily harm

June 19, 2025

Sentence: 4 years imprisonment

Mark Workman, while suffering from alcohol-induced psychosis due to intoxication, was at his home in Aberaman near Aberdare on February 28. He became erratic, smashing up the house, leading his partner to call the police. Officers arrived and attempted to detain him for his welfare. Workman resisted, leading to a scuffle where he dislodged an officer's radio, grabbed the officer's taser, pointed it at the officer's face, and pulled the trigger, though it did not fire as the cartridges were spent. He then punched the officer multiple times with the taser, causing injuries to the eye, lips, chin, neck, behind the left ear, and a broken tooth. The officer required hospital treatment for concussion and emergency root canal surgery. Backup officers eventually subdued Workman.

Pleaded guilty to two counts of making use of a firearm with intent, possessing a prohibited weapon, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and assaulting an emergency worker. Has eight previous convictions for offences including inflicting grievous bodily harm, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and battery. Judge Jeremy Jenkins commented that the behaviour was intolerable and frightening, highlighting the dangers faced by police officers.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Johnathan Newbury

Inflicting Grievous Bodily Harm with Intent

June 16, 2025

Sentence: 8 years imprisonment with an extended 2 years on licence and disqualified from driving

Johnathan Newbury, armed with a Zombie knife, was involved in an altercation at an Airbnb in Bruce Street, Cathays, Cardiff, on July 5, 2024. He drove a black SUV at speed into Ryan Jones and a 17-year-old man, throwing them into the air and causing serious injuries, including grievous bodily harm to Mr Jones (injuries to pelvis and right foot) and the teenager (loss of consciousness and injuries to jaw, ribs, chest, and abdomen). The incident followed threats and racial slurs exchanged earlier, with Newbury and others intent on violence.

Did not accept guilt or show remorse. Has 20 previous convictions including robbery, witness intimidation, battery, assaulting emergency workers, violent disorder, attempted robbery, affray, and threatening a person with an offensive weapon. Defence barrister argued he was not on a mission to commit the offences.

Sources: dailypost.co.uk

Sarah Price

Supply of class A drugs

June 14, 2025

Sentence: three years imprisonment

Sarah Price, 25, and Curtis Price, 29, were involved in the supply of heroin and cocaine. They were seen driving at speed in a black BMW at Abercanaid Industrial Estate in Merthyr Tydfil on May 15, where they entered a unit with their children present. Police found 133g of cocaine worth £5,000 to £7,000, 3.32g of heroin worth £345, 67.88g of crack cocaine worth £7,000, and other drugs and paraphernalia. Phones revealed her awareness of the operation and assistance in deliveries and preparation.

Pleaded guilty to three counts of being concerned in the supply of class A drugs and possession of criminal property. Of previous good character, her involvement stemmed from naivety and she had no influence in the drug supply chain.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Curtis Price

Supply of class A drugs

June 14, 2025

Sentence: three years and six months imprisonment

Curtis Price, 29, and Sarah Price, 25, were involved in the supply of heroin and cocaine. They were seen driving at speed in a black BMW at Abercanaid Industrial Estate in Merthyr Tydfil on May 15, where they entered a unit with their children present. Police found 133g of cocaine worth £5,000 to £7,000, 3.32g of heroin worth £345, 67.88g of crack cocaine worth £7,000, and other drugs and paraphernalia. Phones revealed Curtis Price's involvement in supplying class A drugs, with Sarah assisting in deliveries and preparation.

Pleaded guilty to three counts of being concerned in the supply of class A drugs and possession of criminal property. Has three previous convictions for driving offences. Lost employment due to mental health and felt pressure to provide for his wife and children.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Christopher Burden

Rape

May 28, 2025

Sentence: 17 years imprisonment

Christopher Burden, 35, of Heol Maes Eirwg, Trowbridge, Cardiff, raped a boy and sexually assaulted a child on multiple occasions. The offences came to light after the victims came forward and testified against him in court.

Found guilty after a trial. Victims testified in court. Police commended the victims' courage and noted the traumatic impact on all involved.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Benjamin Sergeant

Breach of restraining order

May 24, 2025

Sentence: Imprisonment

Benjamin Sergeant, 53, ordered a fridge freezer to be delivered to a woman's home, which violated his restraining order, leading to his imprisonment.

Gavin Morgan

Possession of illegal items

May 24, 2025

Sentence: Imprisonment

Gavin Morgan had illegal items concealed in his recycling bags, which were uncovered during a police raid on Valentine's Day, leading to his imprisonment.