Mold Crown Court Sentencing Results

Explore 201 verdicts at Mold Crown Court (Flintshire). Updated with the latest court outcomes.

Gerard Ward

Theft

April 10, 2024

Sentence: 46 weeks imprisonment, suspended for 18 months

On February 29, 2024, Gerard Ward stole more than £5,700 worth of goods, including Nicorette and Gillette products, toothbrushes, bottles of Gaviscon, and various creams, gels, and sprays, from Tesco stores in Prestatyn, Llandudno, and Abergele, and from a Boots store in Rhyl. He had adapted his coat with additional pockets to hide the stolen items, indicating significant planning in the offences.

Initially denied seven counts of theft and one count of going equipped for theft, but later pleaded guilty. Had five previous convictions; mental health issues were spiralling out of control at the time. Ordered to complete 15 days of rehabilitation activity and banned from entering North Wales, with electronic monitoring.

Sources: northwalespioneer.co.uk

Brian George Owens

Assault on emergency worker

April 9, 2024

Sentence: One year and 10 months imprisonment

On February 27, officers were called to deal with a reported assault on Turkey Shore Road, Holyhead involving Owens. He violently lashed out at two police officers, grabbing one by the hair and pulling out a clump before striking her to the face. He then placed his hands around another officer's neck and strangled her. Despite the sustained attack, the officers managed to arrest and detain him.

Pleaded guilty to assaulting an emergency worker, two counts of threats to kill, assault, and breach of a criminal behaviour order. Owens is a prolific offender who was already subject to a Criminal Behaviour Order. District Inspector Wayne Francis commented that assaults on emergency workers will not be tolerated.

Sources: northwaleschronicle.co.uk

Cain Abraham

Intentional strangulation and assault

April 1, 2024

Sentence: 26-week prison sentence, suspended for 12 months

Cain Abraham, 21, of Dunley Road, Stourport on Severn, strangled, bit, and hit his ex-girlfriend with a tray during an assault on March 3 in Newtown. He also assaulted her mother and later intimidated her online over 12 days to interfere with the investigation. Additionally, he chased a man through Newtown's High Street wielding an axe.

Pleaded guilty to intentional strangulation, intimidating a witness, and two counts of assault by occasioning actual bodily harm. A pre-sentence report was ordered, and the judge noted the violence was completely out of control, aiming to prevent reoffending.

Sources: countytimes.co.uk

Nathan Bennett

Possession of heroin and crack cocaine with intent to supply

April 1, 2024

Sentence: 2 years imprisonment, suspended for 2 years

Nathan Bennett was found dealing class A drugs in Rhyl in April 2024. He had hidden drugs and a phone in his underwear and admitted to police that he had placed something in his bottom. Police seized 45 packages of heroin worth £450, 46 packs of crack cocaine worth £460, and 24.7g of cannabis worth £250 from him. He breached the suspended sentence terms later by failing to comply with electronic tagging, rehabilitation activities, and unpaid work requirements.

Admitted to cannabis possession, being concerned in heroin and cocaine supply, and possession of heroin and crack cocaine with intent to supply. He had more than 30 previous convictions, and the judge noted he was 'very lucky' to receive a suspended sentence initially.

Sources: rhyljournal.co.uk

Kyle Hall

Escaping from lawful custody

March 21, 2024

Sentence: 8 weeks imprisonment, suspended for 1 year

Kyle Hall was arrested on June 8, 2024, in Rhyl and taken to Ysbyty Glan Clwyd hospital after complaining of chest pains. While unsupervised, he escaped from custody after asking staff for water, leading to a short chase before he was recaptured. The incident was captured on closed-circuit television, and the matter for which he was originally arrested was described as relatively minor.

Admitted the offence; had 12 previous convictions for 20 offences; represented himself in court; ordered to carry out 80 hours of unpaid work; Judge Niclas Parry stated that immediate custody would be a waste of prison space and warned him not to reoffend.

Sources: northwalespioneer.co.uk

Dino Marku

Production of Cannabis

March 8, 2024

Sentence: 18 months imprisonment

Dino Marku, an asylum seeker from Albania, was found hiding behind boxes in a cannabis farm at the former County Times offices in Welshpool on January 9, 2024. The farm consisted of three grow rooms equipped with lights, air filters, and fans, containing 246 cannabis plants with an estimated value of up to £258,300. He had been hired to water the plants and monitor security cameras, expecting a £10,000 payment, and had only recently entered the UK.

Pleaded guilty at the first opportunity. No previous convictions. Was promised £10,000 for working as a gardener and was exploited due to his vulnerability as an asylum seeker. Judge noted he was involved for financial reward and will be deported.

Sources: countytimes.co.uk

Keiron Bellis

Threatening behaviour

March 6, 2024

Sentence: 8 months imprisonment

On January 19, Keiron Bellis threw a punch at a female outside a licensed premises in Llandudno while she was being restrained by a security staff member, Lee Jones, causing them both to fall to the floor. Bellis then threatened to 'get him' and 'shoot him', spat at him, and ran off. He was later found and arrested at a nearby hotel. Upon arrest, he admitted to consuming alcohol and cocaine, was taken to Ysbyty Glan Clwyd, and was abusive to police en route. He claimed he could not remember the incident due to intoxication.

Pleaded guilty to threatening behaviour. Had 19 previous convictions for 30 offences. Judge commented that he behaved 'quite disgustingly' in a 'sustained' incident. He had completed unpaid work on a current suspended sentence.

Sources: northwalespioneer.co.uk

Kenneth Jones

Grievous Bodily Harm

February 29, 2024

Sentence: 27 months in prison

On June 9, last year, Kenneth Jones punched Jamie Selvey outside The Bell Hotel in Commercial Street, Newtown, after Selvey badgered him for drugs. The single punch caused catastrophic brain injuries, leaving Selvey in a permanent vegetative state requiring palliative care. Jones was captured on CCTV, and the incident led to Selvey needing brain surgery and ongoing life support.

Pleaded guilty to inflicting malicious grievous bodily harm. Showed remorse by calling 999 and assisting the victim until emergency services arrived. Judge noted he did not intend the catastrophic consequences and highlighted his immaturity and kind nature despite the act.

Sources: countytimes.co.uk

Liam Jones-Nicoll

Actual Bodily Harm

February 28, 2024

Sentence: 10 months imprisonment

Liam Jones-Nicoll assaulted his ex-girlfriend on two occasions. On July 19, 2023, during an argument at his home, he pushed her, causing her eye to bleed and swell severely, impairing her vision. On October 7, 2023, after drinking, he injured her thumb as she tried to leave, leading her to flee into the road and seek help from a stranger who drove her away. He attempted to create false evidence and had a prior conviction for a serious public order offence.

Changed pleas last week; judge accepted no intent to injure and noted positive use of time in prison; restraining order imposed for five years, banning contact and proximity to victim.

Sources: countytimes.co.uk

Craig Mcdermid

Engaging in sexual communication with a child

February 1, 2024

Sentence: 15 months imprisonment

Craig McDermid left a sexually explicit note saying 'lift your skirt up' for a schoolgirl at a bus stop in Flintshire in May 2024. The girl had previously noticed his red car parked nearby and suspected he was filming her; the car would drive away once she boarded the bus. Police traced the vehicle to him using CCTV footage, leading to his arrest. The incident caused the girl to feel anxious and confused, and her father to experience extreme anger.

Ricky Farrington

Possessing cocaine with intent to supply

January 10, 2024

Sentence: Two years and six months imprisonment

Ricky Farrington, a 31-year-old father-of-three from Caersws, became involved in dealing Class A drugs due to financial difficulties. He was arrested on December 7 at his home, where police found approximately £2,800 worth of cocaine hidden in a hollowed-out candle, £2,400 in cash, drug paraphernalia including scales, a balaclava, and a knife. His phone contained evidence of drug dealing conversations and a tick list of debts. The crimes occurred around Powys, with Farrington supplying cocaine in his local community.

Pleaded guilty to possessing cocaine with intent to supply and possessing criminal property. No previous convictions; involved due to financial struggles to support his family. Judge noted he entered the activity for financial gain with eyes open.

Sources: countytimes.co.uk

Nathan Jones

Criminal Damage

January 1, 2024

Sentence: 8 months imprisonment

On July 5, 2023, at around 11pm, Nathan Jones ran up to the Penycae home of Lorraine Dean and Mark Langford. His co-defendant Ricky Jones struck the front door glass window and living room window with an axe, smashing them. Nathan Jones used a hammer to smash the rear window of a car on the driveway. Mark Langford confronted the men at the door, but they ran off. Police stopped a vehicle with the defendants as passengers and found the axe inside.

Pleaded guilty to two offences of criminal damage, one of possessing a sharp article in public (axe), and an article with intent to damage property (hammer). Sentence to run consecutive to ongoing 10-month prison term activated from suspended sentence. Under influence of drugs at time of offence.

Sources: leaderlive.co.uk

Richard Pryce

Possession with intent to supply heroin and cocaine

December 22, 2023

Sentence: 28 months imprisonment

Richard Pryce, from Llanfyllin, was found in possession of heroin and cocaine worth nearly £20,000 during a police search of his flat on January 14, 2021. Police seized 129 grams of heroin, additional drugs, £960 in cash, and drug paraphernalia, with the drugs valued at over £16,000 on the street. Despite his arrest, he continued involvement in drug activities, leading to another search on November 22, 2023, at an address in Meifod, where 2.4 grams of heroin worth £300 and 17.1 grams of cocaine worth £1,600 to £2,000 were found, along with messages on his phones related to drug deals and a throwing star as an offensive weapon. This pattern of behaviour stemmed from his long-term drug use, which intensified after his partner's death in 2019, resulting in debt and small-scale dealing to friends.

Pleaded guilty to nine charges, including possession with intent to supply heroin and cocaine, and being concerned in the supply of Class A drugs. He has previous convictions for possessing drugs but none for trafficking prior to 2021. The judge noted the significant amount of drugs and pressure on him, while his lawyer mentioned his drug use escalated after his partner's death in 2019, leading to a 'never-ending spiral' of addiction and debt.

Sources: countytimes.co.uk

Stephen Dixon

Assault and False Imprisonment

November 30, 2023

Sentence: 6 years imprisonment

Stephen Dixon participated in the sadistic attack on Matthew Williams on July 17 in Llanidloes, including spitting ammonia in the victim's face, tying him up with bandages after stripping him, smashing a mug over his head, and piercing his ears with a pin, as part of a 12-hour ordeal involving torture and false imprisonment.

Co-defendant who assisted in the assault; his actions were described as out of character due to alcohol issues and coercion by Butler; he had a previously settled life and only minor prior convictions for drink driving.

Sources: countytimes.co.uk

Wayne Butler

Assault and False Imprisonment

November 30, 2023

Sentence: 15 years imprisonment

Wayne Butler led a sadistic revenge attack on vulnerable victim Matthew Williams during a 12-hour ordeal on July 17 in Llanidloes, involving carving his then-girlfriend's name into Williams' forehead with a Stanley knife, pulling out four teeth with a metal bar, beating him severely, throwing darts at him, attempting to suffocate him with a plastic bag, choking him, stripping him naked, binding him with bandages, and demanding money over a drug debt while threatening further violence.

Judge described the attack as sadistic and depraved; Butler was deemed a dangerous offender with a history of violent offending and mental health issues; he was under the influence of drugs and alcohol at the time.

Sources: countytimes.co.uk

William Mcgrotty

Producing cannabis

November 27, 2023

Sentence: 8 months suspended for 18 months

William McGrotty, 61, assisted Ian Hunter in operating a cannabis factory at a five-bedroom home in Pantasaph, Flintshire, by helping with the grow during Hunter's absence in April 2023. The setup was commercial-scale, raided by police on September 7, 2023, finding three plants, seven large bags, and 14 glass jars of cannabis totaling 17 kilos, valued at up to £259,000 street value. The property was wrecked and unsafe due to damage. Phones revealed daily communication with Hunter about the operation, despite his claim of unawareness.

Pleaded guilty to producing cannabis. Drug addict with 23 prior convictions. Claimed he was only gardening but evidence showed involvement in cultivation. Judge considered realistic prospect of rehabilitation after a decade out of trouble.

Sources: leaderlive.co.uk

Ian Hunter

Producing cannabis

November 27, 2023

Sentence: 2 years suspended for 18 months

Ian Hunter, 43, renovated a five-bedroom family home in Pantasaph, Flintshire, into a cannabis factory, causing extensive damage including water damage leading to roof collapse and unsafe electricity extraction. The operation was discovered during a police raid on September 7, 2023, yielding 17 kilos of cannabis with a street value up to £259,000 and wholesale value up to £87,000. He set up the factory due to large debts, intending to share proceeds with his co-accused. Phones showed daily communication about cultivation.

Pleaded guilty to producing cannabis. Army veteran with four prior convictions. Judge noted his significant role and past similar conviction but suspended sentence considering remorse and family circumstances.

Sources: leaderlive.co.uk

Gareth Jones

Robbery

November 26, 2023

Sentence: 16 months' imprisonment

Gareth Jones, along with Anthony Horan and James Birtwistle, targeted the One Stop shop on Rhuddlan Road, Rhyl, late in the evening on October 31, 2023. The shop was manned by two female staff members. Jones pushed staff member Gail Lyne, and Horan and Birtwistle forced her out of the way, causing her to fall and strike her head on a metal bollard. They stole £140.95 worth of confectionery, laundry, and household products and fled. Ms Lyne suffered headaches, stiff neck, and lower back pain. Jones handed himself in on November 6, 2023.

Pleaded guilty to robbery. Had seven previous convictions for 19 offences. Described as living a chaotic lifestyle at the time, now residing with aunt and remorseful. Judge condemned his 'totally cowardly' behaviour.

Sources: rhyljournal.co.uk

Anthony Horan

Theft

November 26, 2023

Sentence: 150 hours' unpaid work

Anthony Horan, along with James Birtwistle and Gareth Jones, targeted the One Stop shop on Rhuddlan Road, Rhyl, late in the evening on October 31, 2023. The shop was manned by two female staff members. Horan forced staff member Gail Lyne out of the way after she was pushed by Jones, causing her to fall and strike her head on a metal bollard. They stole £140.95 worth of confectionery, laundry, and household products and fled. Ms Lyne suffered headaches, stiff neck, and lower back pain. Horan was arrested on November 2, 2023.

Admitted theft. Had 12 previous convictions for 26 offences. No mitigation offered. Restraining order banning return to the store for 15 years.

Sources: rhyljournal.co.uk

James Birtwistle

Theft

November 26, 2023

Sentence: 150 hours' unpaid work

James Birtwistle, along with Anthony Horan and Gareth Jones, targeted the One Stop shop on Rhuddlan Road, Rhyl, late in the evening on October 31, 2023. The shop was manned by two female staff members. Birtwistle forced staff member Gail Lyne out of the way after she was pushed by Jones, causing her to fall and strike her head on a metal bollard. They stole £140.95 worth of confectionery, laundry, and household products and fled. Ms Lyne suffered headaches, stiff neck, and lower back pain. Birtwistle was arrested on November 2, 2023.

Admitted theft. Had seven previous convictions for 19 offences. No mitigation offered. Ordered to pay £50 compensation and £250 costs. Restraining order banning return to the store for 15 years. In employment.

Sources: rhyljournal.co.uk

Wayne Davies

Assault by penetration and sexual assault

November 24, 2023

Sentence: 6 years imprisonment

Wayne Davies, of Dovey Close, Connah's Quay, committed a sexual assault by penetration and sexual assault against a victim in 2023. The victim reported feeling violated, vulnerable, and numb, leading to prescriptions for anti-depressants and referral to counselling. She described the trauma of reliving the incident during the trial as extremely stressful.

Convicted after trial of assault by penetration and sexual assault. Described as a 'wicked and sinister' assault by Judge Simon Mills. Subject to a 12-year restraining order from the victim. Defendant is a hard-working family man of largely previous good character.

Sources: leaderlive.co.uk

Rhys Roberts

Intentional strangulation and actual bodily harm

November 19, 2023

Sentence: 22 months’ detention, suspended for two years; 20 days’ rehabilitation activity; 150 hours’ unpaid work

On March 17, 2023, Rhys Roberts boarded a train at Colwyn Bay, kicked it, shouted and swore on the phone, refused to leave without a ticket, lashed out at the train driver hitting him repeatedly, kicked staff member Gillian Whitby, pulled the emergency lever causing a 63-minute delay and over £1,100 in compensation claims. On August 4, 2023, while on bail, he breached a restraining order by being with former partner Willow Andrews in Wrexham; at 1am he struck her face with considerable force, threw a cat and pile of washing at her, repeatedly hit and kicked her face, and restricted her breathing with his forearm across her throat.

Pleaded guilty to obstructing a train, threatening behaviour, intentional strangulation, and actual bodily harm. Described as developing into a violent thug but with sufficient mitigation for suspended sentence. Prior conviction for battery against Willow Andrews.

Sources: leaderlive.co.uk

Paul Thomas Ince

Manslaughter

November 18, 2023

Sentence: 8 years imprisonment

On June 12, 2023, in the early hours in Caia Park, Wrexham, John Ithell, aged 59, arrived at the wrong flat seeking to buy drugs. After shouting up to the flat occupied by Paul Thomas Ince and two friends, Ince ran out and punched Ithell once, causing him to fly back four to five feet into a wooden fence and hit his head on concrete. Ince then walked Ithell to a nearby bench and left him there. Ithell later collapsed in a bush, was found by a cyclist, taken to hospital, and died that morning from a cracked skull and brain injury.

Found guilty of murder following a trial. Judge noted little genuine remorse, described the act as mindless drunken aggression. At least two thirds to be served in custody.

Sources: leaderlive.co.uk

Stephen Harrison

Burglary

November 14, 2023

Sentence: 14 months imprisonment

On August 16, Stephen Harrison broke into the Ardwy Orme property, a Grade II listed building on Ty Gwyn Road in Llandudno, causing over £50,000 in damage. He was covered in blood and had smeared it everywhere, disturbing most rooms, smashing windows, and damaging furniture, plates, paintings, bedding, bookshelves, and carpets. He had consumed vodka and ketamine beforehand and remembered little of the incident. The property, owned by Kristine Wilson and her siblings, contained irreplaceable items of sentimental value passed down through generations. Cleaning the blood cost £2,000. Harrison was also sentenced for failing to reside at the notified address after his release from prison in June.

Pleaded guilty to burglary, criminal damage to property, and failing to comply with sex offenders register notification requirements. Has five previous convictions for 12 offences. Diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Judge Timothy Petts stated there was no alternative to an immediate prison sentence.

Sources: northwalespioneer.co.uk

Owain Lambert Hughes

Arson

November 11, 2023

Sentence: 3-year community order with drink and drug rehabilitation requirements and exclusion zone

On July 17, 2023, Owain Lambert Hughes, 35, of Eleventh Avenue, Wrexham, set fire to his mother’s duvet with petrol during an aggressive argument over money while she lay underneath it. He had been drinking heavily and using cocaine, threw objects including a clock, lamp, and used a meat fork to smash a mirror. He ignited the petrol but immediately smothered the flames with the duvet. A family member arrived to calm him, describing him as acting psychotic. The incident stemmed from financial strain due to his debts and addictions after moving back to North Wales from Oxford.

Pleaded guilty to arson and criminal damage. Judge noted significant risk of harm but short duration and immediate extinguishing of fire. Parents support rehabilitation. Breach would result in 2 years and 3 months custody.

Sources: leaderlive.co.uk

Callum Abbott

Breaching Sexual Harm Prevention Order

November 11, 2023

Sentence: 20-month jail sentence, suspended for 18 months

Callum Abbott, a 24-year-old from Newtown, breached a Sexual Harm Prevention Order by communicating with an underage girl on hundreds of occasions between April 11 and June 3, including kissing and cuddling her in Warrington and booking a hotel room for them. He also stayed at an unregistered address and failed to comply with the sex offenders register. This breach relates to a prior punishment for engaging in non-penetrative sexual activity with a 14-year-old girl in August 2022. The judge noted that Abbott's actions were not sexually motivated in this instance but emphasised his failure to obey court orders, citing his vulnerabilities from childhood trauma and recent loss of his mother.

Breached a Sexual Harm Prevention Order and failed to comply with the sex offenders register; judge stated he did not comply because he thought the orders were unjust; to be served consecutively with a previous 16-month suspended sentence; must wear an alcohol tag for 120 days, complete a 12-week curfew, and undertake 15 rehabilitation days.

Sources: countytimes.co.uk

David Cross

Actual bodily harm

October 26, 2023

Sentence: 14 months imprisonment, suspended for two years, plus 20 rehabilitation activity days, 150 hours of unpaid work, £87 victim surcharge, and £1,000 compensation

David Cross attacked his ex-wife in the early hours of February 5 at his home in Newtown after they had been drinking. The incident began when she accused him of behaving inappropriately towards his current partner, who was unwell. He became angry, repeatedly punched her in the head, grabbed her hair, pushed her into the bathroom where she fell, and continued to stamp on her head, back, and leg while his current partner tried to intervene. The victim suffered significant injuries including a black eye, a cut above the eyebrow, bruising, a haemorrhage behind her eye, blurred vision, and difficulty walking, requiring hospital treatment. She also experienced increased anxiety and fear of encountering him.

Pleaded guilty to actual bodily harm. No previous convictions. Judge noted the offence passed the custody threshold but suspended the sentence due to early guilty plea, remorse, rehabilitation prospects, good character, and potential impact on his partner.

Sources: countytimes.co.uk

Damien Kelly

Perverting the course of justice

October 2, 2023

Sentence: 2.5 years imprisonment

Damien Kelly, while on remand in custody for domestic violence offences against his partner Tracey Blades, made 27 unauthorised phone calls to her from prison between June 8 and August 1 using another prisoner's PIN. The calls pressured her to withdraw support from the prosecution, encourage her to visit him, and not attend court. This followed his arrest on March 21 for assaults, intentional strangulation, and controlling behaviour (later dropped), after breaching bail conditions by contacting her on March 23 and sending over 100 messages on April 16.

Pleaded guilty to perverting the course of justice. Six previous convictions for seven offences, none since 2007. Judge Rhys Rowlands described him as manipulative and self-centred. Has cocaine issues but strong work ethic, assisting in prison catering.

Sources: rhyljournal.co.uk

Carl Jones

Robbery

September 17, 2023

Sentence: 2 years imprisonment

On May 25, 2023, at about 3am in Llandudno, Carl Jones, appearing drunk and slurring his words, approached holidaymaker Roy Kay on his bike, claiming he had lost his watch. Jones followed Kay, making little sense, then dismounted and threatened to 'cave his head in'. He launched at Kay, who raised his rucksack for protection, allowing Jones to snatch it and flee on his bike. The rucksack contained medication, water bottles, and a mobile phone charger. Kay hid in bushes, contacted police, and Jones was arrested 30 minutes later nearby, still in possession of the items. Jones claimed in interview he took the bag to search for his watch.

Pleaded guilty to robbery. Previous convictions for 16 offences. Breached a suspended sentence. First time in custody on remand. Judge Simon Mills noted alcohol as a recurring issue and high risk of harm to the public.

Sources: northwalespioneer.co.uk

Caine Dwyer

Class A drug supply

September 2, 2023

Sentence: 2 years and 7 months imprisonment

Caine Dwyer, a 26-year-old former Royal Navy submariner from Markfield Crescent, Halewood, became involved in supplying heroin and crack cocaine in Rhyl as part of County Lines drug-dealing activities to pay off his own drug debts. He made at least four trips from Merseyside to North Wales for drug supply, using graft phone numbers to offer class A drugs. Police investigations, including call data, CCTV, and ANPR cameras, led to his arrest on June 4 after stopping a vehicle on Bath Street, Rhyl, where he resisted arrest aggressively. He was found with £200 in cash.

Pleaded guilty to being concerned in class A drug supply. No previous convictions; involved due to personal drug debts; served in the Royal Navy; has a daughter and gained employment while on remand.

Sources: rhyljournal.co.uk

Joshua Andrews

Threatening Behaviour

September 1, 2023

Sentence: five months imprisonment

On February 2, Joshua Andrews punched another man unprovoked at Club 147 on Mostyn Street, Llandudno, causing him to fall to the floor. The incident was captured on CCTV, and Andrews was removed by a security guard. He also breached a suspended sentence by failing to attend a pre-arranged probation appointment without reasonable excuse, despite attempts to contact him via calls and WhatsApp messages.

Admitted threatening behaviour and breaching a suspended sentence. Has seven previous convictions for 14 offences. Judge Timothy Petts noted the punch was unprovoked and that it was a second breach of the suspended sentence, stating it warranted imprisonment.

Sources: northwalespioneer.co.uk

Christopher Pugh

Rape

August 17, 2023

Sentence: 7 years imprisonment

In 2020, Christopher Pugh subjected a woman in Powys to three separate rapes and an assault occasioning actual bodily harm. He exerted sexual violence and threatened her life, with incidents involving criminal damage where the victim curled into a ball pleading not to be hurt. The crimes involved a pattern of control and violence, leaving the victim with lasting trauma, including difficulty in daily functioning and loss of faith in people.

Found guilty after trial of three counts of rape and one count of assault occasioning actual bodily harm. He had admitted to two charges of causing criminal damage. Victim reported severe emotional distress, including feeling worthless and isolating herself. Pugh expressed remorse in a letter, stating he wants to become a better person. Judge noted his extreme rage and the victim's vulnerability, with the sentence to be served two-thirds in custody and the rest on licence, plus a lifelong notification requirement and a restraining order.

Sources: countytimes.co.uk

Jake Thurston

Being concerned in the supply of heroin and crack cocaine

August 14, 2023

Sentence: 2 years and 3 months imprisonment

Jake Thurston, 46, of East Parade, Rhyl, was involved in the supply of class A drugs, heroin and crack cocaine. On June 4, a mobile phone linked to drug sales was seized during an investigation, showing Thurston as the most frequent contact. He was arrested on June 5 at his residence, where police found 1.74g of heroin (£110 value) and 2.13g of crack cocaine (£210 value) hidden under a shower tray, along with messages on seized phones indicating drug supply. He had a lesser role in a larger chain and was working for others while addicted to the drugs.

Pleaded guilty to being concerned in the supply of heroin and crack cocaine, and possession with intent to supply. Had 10 previous convictions and was supplying to fund his addiction. Judge Rhys Rowlands noted he played an operational role in spreading misery on the streets of Rhyl and that the offences were too serious for anything other than an immediate custodial sentence.

Sources: rhyljournal.co.uk

Lauren Harris

Murder

August 12, 2023

Sentence: Life imprisonment with a minimum term of 25 years

Lauren Harris, who had been in a relationship with and moved in with David Wilcox in mid-2023, depleted his bank account. On November 19, 2023, she was at his home on Bay View Road, Colwyn Bay, drinking and taking drugs with David Webster and Thomas Whiteley. An argument led to her stabbing Mr Wilcox twice in the early hours of November 20, 2023, while he was also attacked by Webster. She then drove off in Mr Wilcox's Volvo with the others, crashing shortly after, and Mr Wilcox was found unconscious by police.

Found guilty after a trial; judge described the murder as brutal and senseless, an abuse of trust, and noted no remorse; application for appeal was refused.

Sources: northwalespioneer.co.uk

David Webster

Murder

August 12, 2023

Sentence: Life imprisonment with a minimum term of 23 years

David Webster was present at David Wilcox's home on Bay View Road, Colwyn Bay, on November 19, 2023, where he was drinking and taking drugs with Lauren Harris and Thomas Whiteley. During an argument in the early hours of November 20, 2023, he bludgeoned Mr Wilcox with a vodka bottle and also kicked, punched, and stamped on him while Harris stabbed him. Webster then fled with Harris and Whiteley in Mr Wilcox's Volvo, which crashed shortly after.

Found guilty after a trial; no application for appeal was made within the required 28 days.

Sources: northwalespioneer.co.uk

Ledjan Ruci

Breach of Deportation Order

August 7, 2023

Sentence: 14 months imprisonment

Ledjan Ruci, an Albanian national previously deported from the UK in November 2023 following a conviction for production of cannabis, attempted to re-enter the country. On July 3, he arrived at Holyhead Port via ferry from Dublin and presented a fake Italian passport to Border Force officers. A search of his bags revealed an Albanian ID card, confirming his true identity. He was arrested and has been in custody since then.

Admitted to entering the UK in breach of a deportation order and possession of an identity document with improper intention. Has one previous conviction for production of cannabis. Expressed remorse through his representative. Judge Timothy Petts stated that the deportation order remains in effect and that he will be deported again as soon as possible.

Sources: northwaleschronicle.co.uk

Martin Gould

Threatening with an offensive weapon in a public place

August 7, 2023

Sentence: 20 months imprisonment

On February 15, Martin Gould, while highly intoxicated after consuming several litres of vodka, banged on the window of Tyler Price's property in Flintshire. He waved a meat cleaver at Mr Price and threatened to kill him, saying 'I'm going to f***ing kill you' and 'stab everyone and kill everyone'. This incident left the victims in fear and had a profound effect on them. Gould was arrested, answered no comment in interviews, and was later found guilty.

Found guilty by trial at Mold Magistrates Court in April. Has four previous convictions for 14 offences, including using violence to enter a property. Suffers from mental health issues, PTSD, anxiety, and alcohol problems. Judge Rhys Rowlands described the offence as extremely serious and dismissed claims of remorse, stating it was too serious for anything other than an immediate custodial sentence. A five-year restraining order and a statutory surcharge were also imposed.

Sources: leaderlive.co.uk

Jack Nash

Supply of class A drugs

August 1, 2023

Sentence: four years imprisonment

Jack Nash profited more than £35,000 from dealing heroin and crack cocaine in Rhyl, Abergele, and Colwyn Bay. He was linked to a 'graft phone' that advertised drug sales for about three months, based at his home and in his vehicle. On July 22, 2024, police executed a search warrant at his residence, finding the phone, hundreds of pounds in cash, quantities of crack cocaine, heroin, and cannabis, as well as 'tick lists' with names and phone numbers. Analysis showed numerous messages advertising and requesting drug sales.

Admitted to being concerned in the supply of class A drugs, acquiring/using/possessing criminal property, and possession of class A and B drugs with intent to supply. At a subsequent proceeds of crime hearing, he was ordered to pay back £1 within three months or face an additional seven days in prison.

Sources: northwalespioneer.co.uk

Jean Evans

Assault on an emergency worker

July 16, 2023

Sentence: 11 months imprisonment

Jean Evans, while heavily intoxicated, was found urinating in public on Colwyn Bay Promenade on April 29. She was escorted by police but later left her accommodation. Upon arrest, she kicked and banged her head in the police car and attempted to set fire to it using a lighter. She then kicked a police constable at Kinmel Park Services in Bodelwyddan. Evans has seven previous convictions for 11 offences.

Subject to a suspended sentence at the time of the offence. Described as vulnerable with mental health difficulties and alcohol reliance. Judge noted her chaotic behaviour and hoped for rehabilitation, acknowledging a moving letter from her father.

Sources: northwalespioneer.co.uk

Joseph Oliver

Fraud

July 1, 2023

Sentence: Four years and nine months imprisonment and ordered to repay £7,612.61

Joseph Oliver, as director of LJ Property Solutions Ltd and Windowseal Ltd, dishonestly and persistently defrauded elderly and vulnerable residents in North Wales and Lancashire between 2017 and 2023. He targeted victims with an average age of 82, convincing them to pay for unnecessary or substandard work on windows, doors, and conservatories, often holding them to ransom by claiming risks to their homes. Investigations revealed 39 victims, some of whom have since died, with losses including six-figure sums.

Admitted two charges of knowingly being party to a business carrying on for fraudulent purposes. Proceeds of crime hearing ordered payment within three months or face additional four months in default.

Sources: rhyljournal.co.uk

Jayden Wilson

Wounding with intent

June 29, 2023

Sentence: 3 years and 9 months imprisonment

On June 21, 2023, Jayden Wilson, suspecting his friend Abdul Rob of spending the night with his ex-partner, forced his way into her home in Newtown armed with a claw hammer. Wilson had arrived earlier with their child and seen Rob's shoes, becoming upset upon learning Rob had stayed over due to inability to get home. Despite the complainant and ex-partner insisting it was only friendship, Wilson returned shortly after, went upstairs, and repeatedly struck the sleeping Rob with the hammer, grabbed his hair, and punched him, shouting about his ex. Rob suffered a jagged laceration above his left eyebrow and bruising. Wilson's ex sustained a minor injury to her right bicep when intervening. Wilson fled with the hammer, which was later recovered during his arrest along with cannabis and a grinder.

Pleaded guilty to wounding with intent, assault by beating, and possession of cannabis. Seven-year restraining order imposed. Judge noted the attack was revenge driven by unfounded paranoia possibly linked to cannabis use.

Sources: countytimes.co.uk

Morwenna Grey

Conspiracy to cause criminal damage

June 26, 2023

Sentence: 23 months imprisonment

Morwenna Grey, 41, from Penrallt Street, Machynlleth, along with others, broke into the Teledyne Labtech factory in Presteigne on December 9, 2022. Wearing orange overalls marked 'Palestine Action' and a balaclava, she used a sledgehammer, crowbar, smoke canisters, and a fire extinguisher filled with red paint to smash computer equipment, monitors, furniture, and spray paint on machinery. She also daubed paint on a memorial to a former employee. The group caused extensive damage worth £320,000, leading to the factory's closure for a week and additional security costs of £900,000. The incident involved risks such as fumes from damaged chemical baths and potential cyanide formation.

Admitted conspiracy to cause criminal damage. Expressed remorse and vowed not to engage in such behaviour again. The group had embarked on an episode of destruction requiring a high degree of planning.

Sources: countytimes.co.uk

Ruth Hogg

Conspiracy to cause criminal damage

June 26, 2023

Sentence: 27 months imprisonment

Ruth Hogg, 40, from Stanley Road, Aberystwyth, along with others, broke into the Teledyne Labtech factory in Presteigne on December 9, 2022. She climbed onto the roof equipped with a sledgehammer, crowbar, drill, and a rucksack filled with smoke canisters, smashing 17 skylight windows, causing glass to fall inside, and drilling holes in the roof. She also unveiled a banner with 'Palestine Action'. The group caused extensive damage worth £320,000, leading to the factory's closure for a week and additional security costs of £900,000. The incident involved risks such as fumes from damaged chemical baths and potential cyanide formation.

Found guilty of conspiracy to cause criminal damage after a trial at Caernarfon Crown Court. Expressed remorse and vowed not to engage in such behaviour again. The group had embarked on an episode of destruction requiring a high degree of planning. She climbed onto the roof and damaged skylight windows.

Sources: countytimes.co.uk

Susan Bagshaw

Conspiracy to cause criminal damage

June 26, 2023

Sentence: 23 months imprisonment

Susan Bagshaw, 65, from Clawdd Helyg, Commins Coch, along with others, broke into the Teledyne Labtech factory in Presteigne on December 9, 2022. Wearing orange overalls marked 'Palestine Action' and a balaclava, she used a sledgehammer, crowbar, smoke canisters, and a fire extinguisher filled with red paint to smash computer equipment, monitors, furniture, and spray paint on machinery. She also daubed paint on a memorial to a former employee. The group caused extensive damage worth £320,000, leading to the factory's closure for a week and additional security costs of £900,000. The incident involved risks such as fumes from damaged chemical baths and potential cyanide formation.

Sources: countytimes.co.uk

Tristan Dixon

Conspiracy to cause criminal damage

June 26, 2023

Sentence: 23 months imprisonment

Tristan Dixon, 34, from Huddersfield, along with others, broke into the Teledyne Labtech factory in Presteigne on December 9, 2022. He climbed onto the roof equipped with a sledgehammer, crowbar, and drill, smashing 17 skylight windows, causing glass to fall inside, and drilling holes in the roof. He also unveiled a banner with 'Palestine Action'. The group caused extensive damage worth £320,000, leading to the factory's closure for a week and additional security costs of £900,000. The incident involved risks such as fumes from damaged chemical baths and potential cyanide formation.

Sources: countytimes.co.uk

Joshua Stephens

Criminal Damage and Dangerous Driving

June 12, 2023

Sentence: 14 months imprisonment

Joshua Stephens, who had been in an on-off relationship with his ex-partner for about three years, drove his Renault Kangoo van into the front porch of her home in Victoria Close, Knighton, in the early hours of December 28, 2022, after an altercation where he punched a bedroom door, causing damage and injury to his hand. The victim fled to a neighbour's garden for safety. Stephens then fled from police, reversing his van towards a police vehicle, driving away in a damaged vehicle, and abandoning it after crashing into a hedge on the A4113. He was later found wandering the road without shoes or socks, became aggressive upon arrest, and pretended to spit at officers. Significant damage was caused to the property, leading to costs for the landlord.

Pled guilty to criminal damage and dangerous driving. He was on licence at the time, having been released from a previous two-year jail sentence for violence. Judge Niclas Parry noted his genuine remorse but highlighted his extensive criminal record of 67 offences. A restraining order was granted for five years, and he must pay a £156 surcharge upon release.

Sources: countytimes.co.uk

Charles Hudson

Breach of suspended sentence

June 5, 2023

Sentence: £50 fine and £50 costs, total £100 to be paid within two months

Charles Hudson, 20, of Warren Road, Rhyl, was involved in supplying cocaine, ketamine, and cannabis from August 2022 to January 2023. In January 2023, he was found in possession of a snooker ball in a sock, more than 6g of cannabis, £90 in cash, and a phone, with a discarded wrap of cocaine nearby. Police also discovered additional cannabis, 5.1g of cocaine with 80 per cent purity, and £1,860 in cash in his bedroom at his grandparents' home. He breached his suspended sentence by failing to attend a required unpaid work appointment on May 3, 2023, citing illness without providing evidence.

Admitted failing to attend an unpaid work appointment on May 3 without reasonable excuse. Has completed 60 of 180 hours of unpaid work ordered in his original sentence. Judge Simon Mills warned him about future breaches and praised his responsible attitude.

Sources: rhyljournal.co.uk

Duane Illman

Sexual assault of a child under 13

June 4, 2023

Sentence: 16.5 years imprisonment plus 5 years on licence

Duane Illman, a 40-year-old from Prestatyn, sexually abused two children over a number of years in a predatory manner. He touched Child A sexually and made the child perform a sex act on him. For Child B, he made the child perform sex acts and touched the child sexually on numerous occasions. The abuse had a significant and lifelong impact on the victims, as detailed in their statements to the court.

Pleaded guilty to multiple sexual offences. Judge described him as cunning, devious, manipulative, and predatory, noting he caused catastrophic harm to his victims and had a powerful sexual urge towards children that he appeared unable to control.

Sources: rhyljournal.co.uk

Sarah Prendergast

Assault occasioning actual bodily harm

May 13, 2023

Sentence: 8 months imprisonment, suspended for 1 year

Sarah Prendergast, a 28-year-old from East Parade, Rhyl, was an inpatient at the Hergest mental health unit at Ysbyty Gwynedd, Bangor. On October 24, 2022, she was informed of a transfer to another facility, which caused her to become volatile. She shouted, swore, spat at staff, was restrained, and then bit an ambulance care assistant, Joanne Whelan, on the arm while in the ambulance. This resulted in a 20cm scar, an infection requiring antibiotics and a tetanus injection, and significant emotional distress for the victim, who later left her job.

Pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Has three previous convictions for seven offences. The offence was committed during a mental health crisis, and the judge noted her mental state had relapsed entirely.

Sources: northwaleschronicle.co.uk

Ursaloan Ansari

Rape

August 4, 2022

Sentence: 10 years imprisonment

Ursaloan Ansari met the victim on Snapchat and raped her on January 10, 2022, in Rhos-on-Sea. He used drugs on the intoxicated and vulnerable victim to facilitate the offence. The victim suffered significant emotional distress, including depression, suicidal thoughts, flashbacks, panic attacks, and heightened anxiety, leading to increased isolation and time spent at home.

Found guilty after a trial. No remorse shown. Subject to sex offenders register for life, a 10-year restraining order, and an indefinite sexual harm prevention order. His lawyer noted he is lightly convicted and regrets his previous lifestyle.

Sources: northwalespioneer.co.uk

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