Mold Crown Court Sentencing Results

Explore 222 verdicts at Mold Crown Court (Flintshire). Updated with the latest court outcomes.

Alec Lavelle

Escaping from lawful custody

August 14, 2024

Sentence: 18 weeks imprisonment

Alec Lavelle was arrested on January 15 on suspicion of assault, strangulation, and witness intimidation. As an officer reached for handcuffs, he ran off and climbed over a high fence, remaining at large until late February.

Admitted escaping from lawful custody. Judge Rhys Rowlands noted his lengthy history of offending. His lawyer mentioned work available as a roofer upon release and no evidence of premeditation or violence in the escape.

Sources: rhyljournal.co.uk

William Ward

Acquiring criminal property and dangerous driving

August 13, 2024

Sentence: Three years imprisonment (two years for acquiring criminal property and one year for dangerous driving), and disqualified from driving for three and a half years

William Ward was involved in a fraud scheme between March and May 2019, where an 85-year-old man, Mr. Shuttleworth, was approached by men offering unnecessary home improvements, including jet washing his drive, re-doing his patio, and roof work. Mr. Shuttleworth paid a total of £92,600, with £21,500 transferred into Ward's bank account. Ward denied involvement initially but was charged. He evaded authorities until February 19, 2024, when he was spotted driving a blue BMW on the M1. He fled from police at speeds up to 160mph, threw a bag of white powder from the vehicle, drove through a red light, and provided false details upon arrest.

Pleaded guilty to four counts of acquiring criminal property. Has 17 convictions for 32 previous offences, including burglary, fraud, and motoring offences. Judge Rhys Rowlands noted a significant delay in charges due to Ward's actions and described his driving as grossly extreme with dangerous manoeuvres.

Sources: leaderlive.co.uk

Nathan Giblin

Possession with intent to supply

August 12, 2024

Sentence: 21 months imprisonment

Nathan Giblin was stopped by police in the car park of The Plough in St Asaph on November 11, 2023, where he was found in possession of 40.6g of cocaine and 1.42g of ketamine, along with £530 in cash and scales. A search of his home revealed additional items including crystals, mobile phones, and bags containing powder. The total value of the seized drugs was estimated at up to £3,120. He had previously been given a suspended sentence in April 2024 for this offence but breached it by not completing 120 hours of unpaid work, only partially completing rehabilitation activities, and failing to comply with drug rehabilitation requirements.

Breached suspended sentence by failing to attend probation appointments without reasonable excuse and not completing required unpaid work or rehabilitation activities. Judge Rhys Rowlands noted his total non-compliance and stated that the court had no option but to re-sentence.

Sources: rhyljournal.co.uk

Ann Railey

Assault by beating of an emergency worker

August 1, 2024

Sentence: 16 weeks imprisonment, suspended for 12 months, with 25 days rehabilitation activity and six months drug rehabilitation requirements

On March 5, police officers attended an abandoned building on Kinmel Street in Rhyl following reports of drug use and found Ann Railey inside. She was told she would be detained for a drug search. Railey resisted, launching at PC Thomas Rushton, kicking out and striking PC Karina Harris with a hard kick, and assaulting PCSO Jonathan Gibbons. Body-worn footage showed her being restrained, during which she threatened officers and refused to co-operate. She had £40 worth of amphetamine in her hand at the time.

Pleaded guilty to two counts of assault by beating of an emergency worker, one count of common assault of an emergency worker, and possession of a class B drug. She has 55 previous convictions. The judge noted the original sentence was excessive as the incident lasted less than two minutes and caused no significant harm to officers.

Sources: rhyljournal.co.uk

Cara Smith

Controlling and Coercive Behaviour

July 29, 2024

Sentence: 27 months imprisonment

Cara Smith, from Dog Lane, Kelsall, Chester, engaged in a prolonged pattern of controlling and coercive behaviour towards her husband, starting around 2018, exacerbated by alcohol consumption. This included multiple physical assaults such as biting, kicking, punching, burning his chest with a cigarette in August 2023, and throwing a fireplace companion set at him in February 2024, resulting in bruises, cuts, and severe sleep deprivation due to her digging into his back after his spinal surgery. The victim became isolated from friends and family, and he expressed fear for his life.

Admitted to controlling and coercive behaviour and two charges of assault causing bodily harm. Judge stated that only an immediate custodial sentence was appropriate. Has already served 127 days, with at least half to be served on licence, and a 10-year restraining order was imposed.

Sources: chesterstandard.co.uk

Timothy Field

Causing death by careless driving

July 24, 2024

Sentence: To be determined

Timothy Field, 81, was involved in an incident at the Tesco superstore car park in Pool Road, Newtown, on March 18, 2023, where he drove a Dodge muscle car and caused the death of David Christopher Lumb through careless driving. The circumstances were described as very tragic and sad, and the Crown Prosecution Service accepted his plea to the lesser charge after careful consideration. Field is a wheelchair user and will be sentenced at a later date.

Pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving; interim driving disqualification imposed; represented by Owen Edwards KC; surrendered driving licence after the incident.

Sources: countytimes.co.uk

Christopher Davies

Assault Occasioning Actual Bodily Harm

July 21, 2024

Sentence: 2 years imprisonment, suspended for 18 months

Christopher Davies, in a jealous rage fuelled by cocaine and alcohol, attacked his then-partner Danielle Bowen at their home in Prestatyn. On December 20, 2024, he repeatedly struck her in the head and face while she was asleep in bed, accusing her of infidelity. Three weeks earlier, on November 30, 2024, he strangled her by grabbing her throat with both hands after she stopped him from driving while intoxicated. After his arrest, he contacted her repeatedly, making her feel guilty. The incidents were described as degrading and frightening by the judge.

Pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm and intentional strangulation. No previous convictions. Judge Paul Hobson imposed a five-year restraining order and required completion of a 26-session programme, 180 hours' unpaid work, and 120 days' alcohol abstinence. Sentence suspended due to guilty plea and insight shown.

Sources: rhyljournal.co.uk

Lucas Partyka

Blackmail

July 15, 2024

Sentence: 68 months in custody, with half to be served on licence

Lucas Partyka was involved in a collision causing injury by dangerous driving on July 3, 2023, on the A5152 in Rhostyllen, where he fled the scene and two occupants sustained injuries. On October 14, 2024, he committed fraud by false representation, using a false identity to hire tools including a lawnmower and leaf blower, resulting in a £1,685 financial loss plus hire costs. On October 21, he assisted in a burglary at Starbucks on Holt Road, causing approximately £5,000 in damage using pliers and a screwdriver, and stole items worth £68.50. Earlier that morning, he attempted a burglary at Londis in Wrexham, causing damage to the door and lock, which left the owner scared. He also engaged in blackmail by selling a laptop to a vulnerable adult for £200, then making repeated threats to demand more money, including suggesting the victim sell his television, and searching the victim's home.

Defender stated it is his client's goal to become a productive member of society and role model to his children. Judge noted the blackmail incident exacerbated the victim's condition and there was no clear end in sight for their suffering.

Sources: leaderlive.co.uk

John Evans

Blackmail

July 15, 2024

Sentence: 40 months in custody, with half to be served on licence

John Evans engaged in blackmail by selling a laptop to a vulnerable adult for £200 and then demanding additional payments through threatening behaviour, including appearing at the victim's home with a knife and threatening to cut the dog's head off if not paid. He and another individual searched the victim's home, took their mobile phone and television as payment, leaving the victim feeling incredibly scared for their safety.

Defender claimed no direct threats were made, despite his chaotic past lifestyle and bad record. Judge noted the blackmail incident exacerbated the victim's condition and there was no clear end in sight for their suffering.

Sources: leaderlive.co.uk

Royston Lloyd

Threatening to destroy or damage property in a way likely to endanger life

July 14, 2024

Sentence: 2 years' imprisonment, suspended for 2 years

Royston Lloyd left Heineken bottles containing accelerant on the doorsteps of two women, Chloe Mitchell in Penmaenmawr and Penny Taylor in Colwyn Bay, on October 23, 2023. He also left notes reading 'Next time, you’ll need 999 to put it out' and sent a text message stating he was driving to Penmaenmawr with two petrol bombs. This caused the victims to feel terrified; Ms Mitchell took the day off work and installed fire safety equipment, while Ms Taylor moved house, stayed in a hotel for five days, declared herself homeless, and lived in a caravan before finding a new home. She continues to suffer from anxiety, depression, and sleep issues.

Pleaded guilty to threatening to destroy or damage property in a way likely to endanger life. Has nine previous convictions for 21 offences. Judge Nicola Jones commented that he had terrified the victims and advised him to stop taking drugs. He must complete 20 days' rehabilitation activity, a 12-month mental health treatment requirement, six months' drug rehabilitation requirements, and 100 hours' unpaid work.

Sources: northwalespioneer.co.uk

George Davies

Assault by touching

July 1, 2024

Sentence: 2 years imprisonment

On September 14, 2024, George Davies kissed a girl under 13 on the lips for about 12 seconds, during which she felt his tongue. The girl tried to pull away and fall to the floor, but he caught her and told her not to tell anyone, threatening that he would get into trouble. After the incident was reported, Davies attempted to downplay it, claiming it was a quick peck and not sexual, and asked for police not to be involved to avoid prison. The victim felt disgusted, and her mother reported significant mental health impacts on the family, with the girl receiving counselling for the trauma caused by his predatory actions.

Pleaded guilty to assaulting a girl under 13 by touching. Has a previous conviction for attempted rape in 1993. Judge Rhys Rowlands described the behaviour as disgusting and predatory. Defence highlighted his frailty, limited mobility, and personal losses, including the death of his wife in 2023 and his son to cancer.

Sources: rhyljournal.co.uk

Michael Witter

Engaging in sexual communication with a child

June 12, 2024

Sentence: Two years imprisonment, suspended for two years, plus 20 days rehabilitation activity, 120-day alcohol abstinence, 80 hours unpaid work, and a 10-year sexual harm prevention order

Michael Witter engaged in sexual communication with three teenage children. In one case, a teenager initially told him she was 16, and they met in Colwyn Bay before she disclosed she was younger. He was arrested on November 8, 2024, and gave no comment during his police interview.

Pleaded guilty to three counts of engaging in sexual communication with a child. No previous convictions. Has issues with alcohol, autism, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Judge Simon Mills warned him that his actions were wrong and urged him not to reoffend.

Sources: northwalespioneer.co.uk

Tarran Wilkes

Theft

June 5, 2024

Sentence: 12-month community order and £160 compensation

Tarran Wilkes participated in an overnight crime spree on January 7, 2023, involving the theft of Makita tools from a van in Ford, Shropshire, and a Vauxhall Insignia from Llanfair Caereinion, near Welshpool. She drove away in a Nissan X-Trail containing the stolen tools, wearing pink bedroom slippers, and was stopped by police in Westbury, near Shrewsbury. She provided varying accounts during her arrest and was linked to the crimes through mobile phone data. The thefts caused victims significant distress, including paranoia and health impacts.

Pleaded guilty to stealing tools and a car. Judge Simon Mills noted she was easily influenced, not the main planner, and has turned her life around by moving away from negative influences and staying off cocaine.

Sources: countytimes.co.uk

Daniel Olczyk

Assault occasioning actual bodily harm

June 5, 2024

Sentence: 36 weeks imprisonment

Daniel Olczyk assaulted his wife, Monika Olczyk, in January 2024 while under the influence of alcohol, throwing a glass at her and headbutting her on the forehead, causing extreme pain and a bruise that lasted a week. On March 20, 2024, he followed her upstairs, kicked the door open, verbally abused her, grabbed her by the hair, and prevented her from leaving, leading to her reporting the incidents to the police. The relationship was described as toxic due to his daily alcohol consumption.

Pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Failed to take responsibility for his actions and blamed his wife. Also subject to a five-year restraining order. Judge noted his alcohol abuse and lack of remorse.

Sources: leaderlive.co.uk

Joseph Rothwell

Controlling and coercive behaviour

June 2, 2024

Sentence: 19 months imprisonment

In the summer of 2023, Joseph Rothwell engaged in a pattern of controlling and coercive behaviour towards his then-partner Louise Roberts in Conwy. This included threatening to murder her and burn down her home during an argument in early July, calling her derogatory names, accusing her of infidelity, and threatening to 'snap her neck'. On July 17, 2023, he sent a voice recording threatening to 'smash her mum's head' and murder her. On August 1, 2023, he locked her in a bedroom, pinned her to the bed, struck her face multiple times, and pinned her to the floor while threatening to kill her. These actions led to a significant decline in Ms. Roberts' mental health, causing her to feel self-conscious, lose confidence, and avoid going out alone.

Pleaded guilty to controlling and coercive behaviour. Had 28 previous convictions. Judge Simon Mills described his behaviour as 'truly dreadful' and stated that adequate punishment required immediate custody. A seven-year restraining order was imposed for the victim's protection.

Sources: northwalespioneer.co.uk

David Alfie Williams

Affray

May 28, 2024

Sentence: 32 months imprisonment

On December 22, 2023, David Alfie Williams attended an address in Bodlyn, Acrefair, demanding a cigarette. He smashed a living room window, climbed in through another window, and threatened a group of five people, including making threats to stab one individual. The group locked themselves in the bathroom out of fear as he stabbed the door multiple times with a kitchen knife and banged on the window. He was later apprehended by police after a short foot chase, where he resisted arrest, damaged a police vehicle, and spat at a police officer. He has 32 convictions for 63 offences.

Pleaded guilty to two counts of criminal damage, one count of affray, and one count of common assault of an emergency worker. Breached a suspended sentence from October of the previous year. Judge Rhys Rowlands noted his 'unenviable history of offending' and that the behaviour was 'totally inappropriate' with a profound effect on victims.

Sources: leaderlive.co.uk

Matthew Parrott

Causing death by dangerous driving

May 22, 2024

Sentence: 3 years imprisonment and a 6.5 year driving ban

On November 27, 2023, Matthew Parrott was driving a Honda Civic on the A458 in Middletown, near Welshpool, when he overtook a bus by crossing double white lines on a stretch of road with hidden dips and a 50mph limit. This dangerous manoeuvre led to a head-on collision with Margaret Lee's red Ford Fiesta, causing her catastrophic injuries and death later that day at a hospital in Stoke-on-Trent. Parrott was able to exit his vehicle, but Lee had no chance to avoid the impact.

Admitted causing death by dangerous driving. Expressed genuine remorse and is unlikely to reoffend, as per character references. Judge noted it was a momentary error but dangerous.

Sources: countytimes.co.uk

Tyler Lewis

Carrying a knife

May 14, 2024

Sentence: Five days of rehabilitation activity

In November 2023, police received a report of two males arguing on Wellington Road in Rhyl, with one seen with a knife. Officers found Tyler Lewis sitting on a wall; he refused to comply with police instructions and began removing his clothes. A knife with his DNA on it was discovered nearby. He had been spared jail initially but breached conditions due to reasons including poor weather and lengthy sessions.

Admitted breaching a suspended sentence by not attending a probation appointment in February; previously sentenced to four months' imprisonment suspended for a year-and-a-half; mental health has improved and he is no longer taking cocaine.

Sources: rhyljournal.co.uk

Alison Wells

Theft

May 8, 2024

Sentence: additional 10 days’ rehabilitation activity and six-month drug rehabilitation requirement

Alison Wells stole a mobile phone belonging to Keith Gough, which contained irreplaceable pictures of his late wife, whom he had been with for 34 years until her death in 2003. The phone was not recovered, resulting in the loss of those photos as well as images from a holiday to Costa Rica. Additionally, Wells displayed unacceptable behaviour towards probation staff during a rehabilitation appointment on March 25, leading to a breach of her suspended sentence.

Admitted to unacceptable behaviour during a rehabilitation activity requirement appointment on March 25. Judge Timothy Petts decided not to activate the suspended prison sentence, noting that she is making small steps and that custody would undo her progress. She must comply with the order to avoid further issues.

Sources: rhyljournal.co.uk

Gareth Lewis

Gross indecency with a boy under 16

May 7, 2024

Sentence: 3.5 years imprisonment, with half to be served in custody and the remainder on licence, and a lifelong restraining order

Gareth Lewis committed three counts of gross indecency with a boy under the age of 16 in the early 1990s in Yorkshire. The victim was seven years old when the abuse began and reported it in 2015. Lewis denied the offences initially, skipped his trial in 2016, and remained at large for nine years before being arrested and admitting the offences. The victim suffered from crippling anxiety and depression, stating that Lewis robbed him of his childhood and destroyed his trust in people.

Pled guilty to the offences. Expressed genuine remorse in a letter to the court. Has 74 previous offences, with one prior conviction for indecent assault on a child when he was a teenager.

Sources: northwalespioneer.co.uk

Sam Williams

Wounding with intent

April 17, 2024

Sentence: 12 years imprisonment

Sam Williams stabbed Marshall Carter in the chest and slashed his face with a knife during an attack in the early hours of 23 November in Welshpool. The incident followed a dispute over a £50 debt, with Williams sending threatening messages and hiding in bushes before attacking when Carter opened his door at his home in Foundry Lane. Carter suffered significant blood loss, required treatment at a trauma centre to remove blood from his lung, and continues to deal with nerve damage and psychological effects.

Pleaded guilty to Section 18 wounding with intent and possessing a knife in a public place. Judge described him as a dangerous offender with a history of similar offences, including a prior conviction for GBH in 2019, and imposed an extended sentence with a parole board to assess release after eight years.

Sources: countytimes.co.uk

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

No sentences found matching your search.