Swansea Crown Court Sentencing Results

Explore 172 verdicts at Swansea Crown Court (Swansea). Updated with the latest court outcomes.

Steven Vonk

Manslaughter

November 3, 2025

Sentence: 3 years imprisonment

On July 25, 2025, Steven Vonk, aged 51, punched 63-year-old Timmy Matthews once in the head outside The Mill pub on Bryn-y-Mor Road, Swansea, after Matthews attempted to shake his hand. The unprovoked punch caused Matthews to fall and hit his head on the concrete pavement, resulting in catastrophic brain injuries including significant bruising, bleeding, pressure build-up, skull fractures, and a broken nose. Matthews briefly regained consciousness but deteriorated rapidly and died on July 27, 2025, at Morriston Hospital after life support was withdrawn. Vonk walked away after the assault, texted a friend saying 'Can't say I'm sorry because I'm not', and was later identified via CCTV and facial recognition software. He claimed self-defence, stating he heard an insult and delivered a 'pre-emptive strike', but pleaded guilty to manslaughter.

Pleaded guilty to manslaughter. Has a lengthy criminal record including two prior convictions for violence. Judge noted unprovoked, gratuitous thuggery. One-third discount for guilty plea. Will serve half in custody, remainder on licence.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Aaron Davies

Dangerous driving

October 28, 2025

Sentence: 16 months imprisonment and disqualified from driving for 2 years and 8 months

On February 15, 2025, at around 10pm, Aaron Davies, who was disqualified from driving, fell asleep at the wheel twice while driving a blue BMW at 80mph in a 20mph zone in the Loughor area of Swansea. The vehicle crashed into Catherine Owen's white Toyota Yaris, sending it across the street and causing extensive damage beyond repair, also damaging her garden wall. A silver Renault owned by Laura Lewis was written off in the incident. Davies and his passenger fled the scene. He was identified a month later via a Facebook post by witness Nathan Davies and confirmed by DNA on the driver's side. During police interview, he was abusive.

Pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, driving while disqualified, failure to report a road traffic accident and failure to stop after a road traffic accident. Has seven previous convictions for 13 offences including multiple offences of criminal damage and three breaches of restraining orders. Judge Huw Rees described him as a 'coward' for fleeing the scene and noted his appalling record, immaturity, neurodiversity needs (ADHD and OCD), and substance abuse linked to his mother's illness diagnosis.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Zac Thomas

Causing serious injury by dangerous driving

October 22, 2025

Sentence: 3 years detention in a young offenders institution

On September 21, 2024, in the Cardigan area, Zac Thomas, then 18, was drinking vodka at a skatepark and drove his VW Polo with three teenage passengers despite their reluctance and pleas to stop. He sped through Cardigan, nearly causing a crash, and fled from police pursuit, ignoring passengers' terrified pleas. The car left the road, drove down an inclined field, and crashed into a hedge. One passenger's head smashed through the windscreen, causing horrific neck and facial injuries, smashed teeth, broken nose, fractured vertebrae, requiring ventilation, tracheostomy, multiple operations, and ongoing issues with walking, talking, swallowing, speech impairment, scars, memory problems, flashbacks, and a feeding tube. Another had an open fracture to her right ankle needing surgery with plates, screws, and skin graft, losing ability to play sports and confidence. The third who jumped out had cuts, bruises, and was disorientated. Thomas had 146mg alcohol per 100ml blood (limit 80mg), no attempt to steer or brake.

Pleaded guilty to three counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving and driving with excess alcohol. No previous convictions. One-quarter discount for guilty pleas applied. Disqualified from driving for 5 years and 3 months.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Rodolfa Galvao

Attempting to meet a child under 16 following sexual grooming

October 17, 2025

Sentence: 14 months imprisonment

Rodolfa Galvao, a 49-year-old married man from Yate near Bristol, groomed what he believed to be a 14-year-old girl online via a decoy Facebook profile operated by the paedophile hunter group Dank Dragon. He exchanged messages on WhatsApp, dismissed her age by saying 'age is just a number', discussed massages, and booked a hotel room in Mumbles, Swansea, stocking it with alcohol (alcopops, tequila, Champagne), condoms, lubricant, sex toys, and a Kama Sutra book. On July 21, 2025, he arrived at a tenpin bowling alley in Swansea for the meeting carrying a single rose and Dairy Milk chocolate, where he was confronted by the group and arrested.

Pleaded guilty. One-third discount applied. No previous convictions. Judge noted lack of remorse and described items as 'bribes'. Pre-sentence report recommended immediate custody.

Sources: bristolpost.co.uk

Leah Hocking

Arson

October 17, 2025

Sentence: 6 months imprisonment

On March 4, 2025, Leah Hocking entered a McDonald's in Swansea city centre, behaved erratically and abusively, refused to leave, threatened to burn the restaurant, set fire to paper napkins and items on a table using a lighter, spat at walls, shouted and swore at staff who extinguished the fire. She approached a group of youngsters, grabbed a 16-year-old boy's phone, swung a carrier bag at him when he demanded it back, and picked up a chair. She struggled with arresting officers and kicked out. Police retrieved the phone. Earlier that morning, she blocked the doorway of Basekamp coffee shop, ranted at staff, and spat on the door.

Pleaded guilty to arson, theft, assaulting an emergency worker, and criminal damage. Offences committed while on licence. Discounts applied for guilty pleas. Defendant has shown improvement on remand with medication and courses completed.

Sources: dailypost.co.uk

David Stewart

Fraud by false representation

October 13, 2025

Sentence: 2 years imprisonment suspended for 2 years

David Stewart, a former soldier, spent a decade using false names to make fraudulent applications for war medals belonging to airmen who took part in the Second World War, including the Distinguished Flying Cross, Bomber Command clasp, and Aircrew Europe Star. He claimed to be a relative of the deceased airmen, but genealogical research showed the family connections were untrue. The applications originated from the same address in Wales, raising concerns with the Ministry of Defence. The fraudulently obtained medals, considered very desirable to collectors as complete groups with clasps and official issue papers, were sold to a legitimate dealer in coins and medals who bought them in good faith. The offending was described as sophisticated, persistent, and repeated, requiring significant investigative resources.

Admitted 21 charges of fraud by false representation. Ordered to complete a rehabilitation course. Judge Huw Rees noted that Stewart had tarnished the memory of brave servicemen.

Sources: cambrian-news.co.uk

Mark Webber

Assault

September 30, 2025

Sentence: 2 years and 8 months imprisonment

In May 2025, Mark Webber, who had been in a brief relationship with the victim, argued with her in her flat over buying alcohol. He struck her, causing her nose to bleed, left, and returned with whisky and lager. He then attacked her by kicking her in the face, arming himself with a kitchen knife, cutting her from ear to throat, threatening to kill and rape her for money, strangling her, punching her repeatedly, and forcing her to sleep next to him with a knife under the pillow. The victim escaped when he fell asleep and contacted the police, leading to his arrest.

Pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm (ABH), strangulation, and making threats with a bladed article. Has 17 previous convictions. Judge described the attack as brutal and sadistic, noting the defendant lost self-control after excessive drinking.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Ilya Bass

Stalking

September 27, 2025

Sentence: 18 weeks imprisonment

Ilya Bass first met the victim in 2013 while she was on a nursing placement at HMP Swansea and he was an inmate. He became obsessed with her, frequently following her at a pub in Gorseinon, calling her 'baby girl', sending her a Valentine's Day card and flowers in 2024 despite not knowing her address, which he discovered by searching for her car. He continued contacting her from withheld numbers even after she blocked him, and tracked her to her new home in April 2025. This led to her feeling seriously concerned and avoiding her usual areas. Bass was arrested in July 2025, and his phone contained evidence of his actions.

Pleaded guilty to stalking. Had six previous convictions, including assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Judge noted he was 'besotted and befixed' and had persistently stalked the victim, but due to the plea accepted, the maximum sentence was limited to 26 weeks, reduced to 18 weeks with discount for guilty plea.

Sources: dailypost.co.uk

Jolanta Motiejuniene

Causing serious injury by careless driving

September 26, 2025

Sentence: 10 months imprisonment and banned from driving for 20 months

Jolanta Motiejuniene was driving a Mercedes Sprinter van while conducting charity collections in Waun Burgess, Carmarthen on 20 February 2023, when she collided with a four-year-old girl on a balance bike around 11am, resulting in the child sustaining life-threatening injuries from which she is still recovering.

Found guilty after a trial; the collision caused life-threatening injuries to a four-year-old girl, and the family highlighted the trauma and gratitude towards the court and support services.

Sources: cambrian-news.co.uk

Matthew Battenbough

Murder

September 26, 2025

Sentence: Life imprisonment with a minimum term of 20 years and 114 days

Matthew Battenbough entered Leanne Williams' flat in Townhill, Swansea, where he subjected her to a prolonged, savage, and merciless attack using a knife, scissors, and a frying pan, causing extensive blunt and sharp force injuries to her head, face, and neck. Her body was found hidden under blankets and towels in a chaotic state, with her breasts and genitalia exposed. The attack occurred on February 24, 2024, and involved sexual intercourse, though its consensual nature is uncertain. Battenbough left the scene without seeking help and continued his activities as if nothing had happened.

Pleaded guilty to murder. No remorse shown. Prior convictions for offences including assault and possession of a weapon. Was on licence at the time of the murder.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Benjamin Davies

Robbery

September 26, 2025

Sentence: 47 months imprisonment

On August 19, 2025, Benjamin Davies was caught by the victim removing items from the victim's car near Bryntirion Terrace in Llanelli. He attempted to escape on a bicycle but was stopped, leading to a scuffle where he produced a multi-tool with a blade and advanced on the victim, causing the victim to back away in fear. Davies eventually returned the backpack and fled, but was later identified and arrested on August 22, 2025. The victim, a man in his 50s and in poor health, reported feeling shaken, vulnerable, and petrified, and has become wary of the area.

Pleaded guilty to robbery and possession of an offensive weapon. Has previous convictions for violence and public disorder, including attacking police officers. The judge noted an escalation in offending and applied a one-quarter discount for the guilty plea.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Ashley Cook

Engaging in sexual communications with a child

September 23, 2025

Sentence: 12 months imprisonment suspended for 18 months, rehabilitation course, and 200 hours of unpaid work

Ashley Cook, a 25-year-old music technician at Morriston Comprehensive School in Swansea, exchanged sexual messages with a girl under 16 via Snapchat for over a year. He used fake usernames to avoid detection, sent an unsolicited photograph of his penis, asked for sexualised videos of the child, teased her about being a virgin, and urged her not to tell anyone. He also inquired about what she was wearing under her uniform and stated he would not touch her until she left school. There was no physical sexual contact, and the matter was reported to police in June of the previous year.

Pleaded guilty to the offense. No previous convictions. His barrister noted that he understands his actions were entirely inappropriate and that the offending was not due to deep-seated traits.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Kimberley Wilson

Fraud by abuse of position

September 23, 2025

Sentence: 2 years imprisonment suspended for 2 years, a rehabilitation course, and 200 hours of unpaid work

Kimberley Wilson, as manager of Castle Surgery in Neath, abused her position of trust to steal £49,213 from the surgery between April 2019 and March 2023. She used the surgery's business bank account to make personal purchases and transfers, disguising them as 'petty cash' or 'advance', and spent the money on day-to-day expenses and gambling. This theft diverted funds intended for NHS patient care, leading to her dismissal for gross misconduct.

Pleaded guilty to fraud by abuse of position. Ordered to pay back £5,000 at the rate of £200 a month, in addition to £20,000 already paid.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Denise Raymond-Jones

Unlawful wounding

September 22, 2025

Sentence: 15 months imprisonment suspended for 18 months, rehabilitation course, and a 12-month restraining order

On December 21, 2023, Denise Raymond-Jones accused her partner of infidelity after a Christmas party. She attempted to burn him with a lit cigarette and then glassed him in the face with a wine glass, causing a 4cm permanent facial scar that required stitches at hospital. The victim reported that the assault changed his life, affecting his sleep, work, and social activities.

Pleaded guilty to unlawful wounding. Has one prior conviction for two offences of battery. Expressed remorse, and the judge considered her mental health issues, including a diagnosis of unstable emotional personality disorder, as a factor in sentencing.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Phillip Aston

Breach of restraining order

September 22, 2025

Sentence: 28 weeks imprisonment

Phillip Aston breached a five-year restraining order by arriving at his former partner's home in Aberdulais on July 13, 2025, where he banged on the door, shouted, and repeatedly switched the power on and off. Despite the order, which was imposed after a prior stalking conviction, the couple had reconciled and he had been living with her for several months. He was arrested at the scene and admitted the breach.

Pleaded guilty to breach of restraining order. Had 16 previous convictions, including seven for breaching court orders. The breach was deliberate but involved mutual contact with the complainant.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Ricky O'connor

Cocaine supply

September 19, 2025

Sentence: 30 months imprisonment

Ricky O'Connor, a 33-year-old from Mayhill, Swansea, was involved in dealing cocaine as a 'get-rich-quick' scheme. On August 31, 2025, police executed a warrant at his house, discovering cocaine, mobile phones, more than £2,250 in cash, and a police-style extendable baton. He was sentenced following his guilty plea.

Pleaded guilty to possession of cocaine with intent to supply, being concerned in the supply of cocaine, possession of an offensive weapon, and possession of criminal property. Discounts applied for guilty pleas; will serve up to half the sentence in custody before release on licence.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Kerry Price

Sexual assault of a child under 13

September 18, 2025

Sentence: Imprisonment (duration not specified)

Kerry Price, an IT expert working for a Welsh university, sexually abused a young girl starting when she was around five or six years old, continuing into her teenage years. The abuse included kissing the child during a 'coin flip' game, touching her genitals and breasts both under and over her clothing, making her touch his penis, and some incidents occurred in his car. He also secretly took intimate photos of her, including upskirting images, and downloaded indecent images of children from the internet. The offences took place in Swansea and were reported after the victim disclosed the abuse to her grandmother.

Convicted after a week-long trial; judge adjourned sentencing for a report on dangers to children; remanded in custody; no previous convictions but has a caution for common assault and criminal damage from 2006.

Sources: dailypost.co.uk

Ieuan Beckerleg

Possession of cocaine with intent to supply

September 17, 2025

Sentence: 28 months imprisonment

Ieuan Beckerleg was pulled over for drink-driving in the early hours of July 28, 2025, in Milford Haven, where police found him with 4.6g of cocaine in four snap-seal bags, £1,400 in cash, and a tick list of customers on his phone. A search of his house uncovered £1,500 in cash and empty snap-seal bags. He was arrested, pleaded guilty to the charges, and was sentenced for his involvement in drug supply activities.

The defendant, a dad-of-three, has a history of alcohol and cocaine use which had spiralled, leading to the breakdown of his relationship. He pleaded guilty and has prior convictions including driving with excess alcohol. The judge noted that involvement in Class A drugs leads to immediate custodial sentences, something he knows from personal experience.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Thomas Gore

Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Supply

September 17, 2025

Sentence: 3 years imprisonment

Thomas Gore, due to considerable gambling debts, was paid £200 to drive a consignment of cocaine from Wolverhampton to Pembroke. On June 27, 2025, police intercepted his van in Pembroke Dock based on intelligence linking it to the drugs trade. They found 125g of cocaine, 3.5g of cannabis, and £530 in cash. Checks revealed he had made five previous trips from Wolverhampton to Pembroke Dock between February 12 and May 21, 2025, and his phone contained texts related to cocaine supply. He refused to provide his phone PIN and gave a prepared statement denying ownership of the rucksack.

Pleaded guilty to possession of cocaine with intent to supply, possession of criminal property, and possession of cannabis. Had considerable gambling debts and was paid £200 to deliver the drugs. Judge noted he had let himself down after a decade without offending and warned against future involvement.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Stewart Read

Sexual Assault

September 16, 2025

Sentence: 4.5 years imprisonment

Stewart Read, aged 71, sexually assaulted two women in their 20s by touching them under and over their clothes at various locations in Swansea over several years. The abuse had a profound impact on the victims, with one reporting it affected every part of her life and the other stating it left her feeling unworthy and broken, leading to issues with drink and drugs.

Defendant maintains his innocence, which does not assist in sentencing. Judge Catherine Richards noted that he manipulated his victims and enjoyed the power he exerted over them. He will be a registered sex offender for life and plans to relocate after release.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Luke Campbell

Possession of cocaine with intent to supply

September 16, 2025

Sentence: 32 months imprisonment

Luke Campbell, a former soldier and DPD delivery driver, was paid £250 to transport 1.6kg of cocaine from Swansea to Saundersfoot. He was intercepted by police at Pont Abraham services on August 8, 2025, while driving a Mercedes Sprinter van. Police found the drugs hidden in a compartment under the front passenger seat, along with digital scales at his home. The cocaine consisted of blocks with purities of 84%, 68%, and 65%, with a wholesale value of around £33,000 and a street value up to £187,700.

Pleaded guilty to possession of cocaine with intent to supply; father-of-nine with mental health issues from military service; no previous convictions, though has cautions for common assault and battery.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Daniel Morgan

Stalking

September 16, 2025

Sentence: 3 years and 9 months imprisonment

Daniel Morgan conducted a sinister campaign of stalking against his former partner after their relationship ended in September 2024. This included sending multiple emails from various addresses, making silent or heavy-breathing calls, posting derogatory comments on social media, appearing at her locations (once wearing a T-shirt with her face and another time in a blonde wig), and leaving a personalised gold bracelet near her car. He continued stalking after being released on bail by using 'ghost telephones' to send himself threatening messages and calls, which he falsely attributed to his ex-partner, leading to her wrongful arrest and 16 hours in custody. The behaviour caused the victim significant distress, including anxiety and changes to her routines.

Pleaded guilty to one count of stalking and two counts of attempting to pervert the course of justice. Has one previous conviction for stalking in 2020. Judge described the campaign as sinister and calculating, with no real evidence of remorse. Sentence includes discounts for guilty pleas.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Deborah Delaney

Unlawful Wounding

September 15, 2025

Sentence: 27 months imprisonment for unlawful wounding and 6 months for possession of an offensive weapon, to run concurrently

In the early hours of June 24, 2025, Deborah Delaney initiated an attack on Abiquani Hassan in the Griffith John Street flats in Swansea after he knocked on her door seeking drugs. She struck him with a glass bottle she was carrying, leading to a melee where the victim was further assaulted. The incident was linked to a prior dispute over a crack pipe, and racial slurs were shouted during the attack, leaving the victim battered, bruised, and bleeding.

Pleaded guilty to unlawful wounding and possession of an offensive weapon (a bottle). Has prior convictions including assaults, public disorder, and possession of weapons. The judge agreed with her that living in the flats was a nightmare due to frequent violence.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Jamie Davies

Unlawful Wounding

September 15, 2025

Sentence: 27 months imprisonment for unlawful wounding and 6 months for possession of an offensive weapon, to run concurrently

In the early hours of June 24, 2025, Jamie Davies joined an attack on Abiquani Hassan in the Griffith John Street flats in Swansea, emerging from a flat with a claw hammer and using it to assault the victim. The incident arose from a drugs-related dispute and involved multiple attackers, with threats of stabbing and racial slurs, resulting in the victim sustaining bruising, a head wound, and a broken finger.

Pleaded guilty to unlawful wounding and possession of an offensive weapon (a claw hammer). Has prior convictions including handling stolen goods, possession of drugs with intent to supply, and assault. The judge noted his chaotic lifestyle involving drugs and alcohol.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Joel Evans

Rape

September 15, 2025

Sentence: Five years and six months imprisonment

Joel Evans raped a woman at a party in Llanddewi Brefi on 30 October 2022, where alcohol and drugs were consumed. He was found guilty after a trial, and the victim reported suffering from anxiety, depression, and horrific nightmares as a result.

Maintains innocence; has a nine-month-old child; references describe him as a pleasant young man; judge noted his judgement was grossly affected by alcohol and drugs.

Sources: cambrian-news.co.uk

Joshua Bassett

Unlawful Wounding

September 15, 2025

Sentence: 27 months imprisonment

In the early hours of June 24, 2025, Joshua Bassett, along with Deborah Delaney and Jamie Davies, attacked Abiquani Hassan in the Griffith John Street flats in Swansea. The assault involved using a claw hammer, a bottle, and boots, leaving the victim with bruising, a head wound, and a broken finger. The incident stemmed from a dispute over drugs, with suggestions that Mr Hassan had taken Delaney's crack pipe days earlier. Bassett emerged during the melee and began kicking and hitting the victim, amid racial slurs and threats.

Pleaded guilty to unlawful wounding. Has prior convictions including robbery, burglaries, thefts, drugs offences, and violence. The judge described the defendants as behaving like a pack of wild animals and noted their prolific offending history.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Ruben Goswell

Voyeurism

September 15, 2025

Sentence: 12-month community order with 150 hours of unpaid work

In February 2025, Ruben Goswell secretly photographed a woman in a cubicle in the changing rooms of the Wales National Pool in Swansea. The woman noticed a blue flash over the cubicle wall, saw a phone with a blue case, and confronted him. He admitted to taking the picture, leading to police involvement. The incident exacerbated the victim's mental health issues and made her more cautious around men.

Pled guilty to voyeurism; no previous convictions; described as genuinely remorseful with neurodiversity impacting behaviour; the original sentence was a 10-week suspended prison term, changed on appeal as it was deemed excessive.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Perry Dyson

Dangerous Driving

September 14, 2025

Sentence: 24 months imprisonment suspended for 18 months, accredited programme, rehabilitation course, drug rehabilitation requirement, 200 hours of unpaid work, and a 3-year driving ban

Perry Dyson breached a restraining order by taking his ex-partner's car keys and phone at 3am on an unspecified date in July, then engaged in a high-speed police chase on July 7, 2024, driving over 70mph through residential streets in Llanelli, overtaking vehicles, forcing others to take evasive action, and crashing into a lamppost outside the Royal Oak pub. He was under the influence of cocaine, had prior convictions, and refused to provide a blood sample.

The judge noted that the defendant had been given multiple chances by the courts but had abused them by re-offending. He is motivated to address his crack cocaine addiction to be a part of his son's life and expressed remorse.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Dawn Hopkins

Dishonesty Failing to Notify a Change of Circumstances

September 13, 2025

Sentence: 10 months imprisonment suspended for two years, rehabilitation course, and mental health treatment requirement

Dawn Hopkins fraudulently claimed £93,838 in benefits, including income support, carer's allowance, child tax credits, and housing benefit, after her son was taken into care in 2018. She failed to notify the authorities of the change in circumstances and continued claiming until 2023, when an investigation was launched following received information.

Pleaded guilty to four counts of dishonesty failing to notify a change of circumstances. No previous convictions. Judge described actions as disgraceful and referred to her as a 'sponger'.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Asam Bashir

Supply of Class A drugs

September 13, 2025

Sentence: Seven years and eight months imprisonment

Asam Bashir, from Birmingham, jointly ran the 'Paco' drugs line with Ayaz Hussain, supplying pre-packed heroin and cocaine to substantial dealers in Swansea for further distribution. He used techniques to avoid detection, including hiding drugs in hire car roof linings. On February 27, 2025, police stopped their vehicle and recovered 48g of heroin and 36g of cocaine. He attempted to pervert the course of justice by providing false details upon arrest.

Convicted at trial; no previous convictions. Gave false name and address to police, leading to a search of an innocent family's home. Was part-way through obtaining a HGV licence and acting as a carer for his father at the time.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Ayaz Hussain

Supply of Class A drugs

September 13, 2025

Sentence: Seven years and six months imprisonment

Ayaz Hussain, from Birmingham, was involved in running the 'Paco' drugs line, supplying cocaine and heroin to dealers in Swansea. He made multiple trips from the West Midlands to Swansea using hire cars, hiding drugs in the roof linings. On February 27, 2025, police intercepted his vehicle, recovering 48g of heroin and 36g of cocaine. He was arrested and has been described as a significant player in the supply of Class A drugs.

Pleaded guilty to the offenses. Has a previous conviction for supplying heroin and cocaine in 2019, for which he served four-and-a-half years. Completed courses while on remand, including food hygiene.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Jason Beech

Assault Occasioning Actual Bodily Harm

September 12, 2025

Sentence: 2 years imprisonment

Jason Beech assaulted his partner twice while under the influence of alcohol. The first incident occurred on January 25, 2025, at his partner's house in Swansea, where he grabbed her and threw her against a doorframe, causing shoulder pain. The second incident happened in March 2025 during a trip to Liverpool; after visiting the Cavern Club and arguing in the street, he pushed her face into a wall and repeatedly punched her to the body and face at their accommodation. He also refused to give her a train ticket home and made threatening remarks, including forcing her legs open and saying, 'I'll have you whenever I want'. The assaults were reported to the police, leading to his arrest on June 4, 2025.

Pleaded guilty to two counts of assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Has 23 previous convictions, including for possession and supply of Class B drugs, affray, and prior ABH. Judge noted he is a violent man who cannot control his temper when intoxicated and cannot be managed in the community.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Steven John Allen

Breach of Sexual Harm Prevention Order

September 11, 2025

Sentence: 32 months imprisonment

Steven John Allen, a 47-year-old registered sex offender of no fixed abode, breached his Sexual Harm Prevention Order by travelling to Ireland on July 16 using a false name without notifying the police, and failed to comply with sex offenders register requirements by not reporting as required on July 17. He was arrested on July 31 at a ferry port while attempting to board as a foot passenger. His history includes previous convictions for indecent assault and repeated breaches, such as not notifying his address, being in a skate park with a child, having phone contact with children, and using unauthorised social media accounts. The breaches occurred while he was living in various locations, including Swansea.

Refused to attend court; has 18 previous convictions including indecent assault on boys under 14 and under 16; multiple prior breaches of sexual harm prevention orders and sex offenders register requirements in 2004, 2005, 2008, 2014, 2018, 2019, and 2021; judge noted flagrant breach and little hope of rehabilitation.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Richard Lloyd Ellis

Theft

September 10, 2025

Sentence: 20 weeks imprisonment suspended for 18 months, rehabilitation course, 150 hours of unpaid work, and £70 compensation

Richard Ellis stole a pensioner's wallet in a barber shop in Cwmavon on May 28, 2025. The victim, who is in the early stages of dementia, left his wallet on a seat after a haircut. Ellis discreetly covered the wallet with his jacket, took it, and transferred it to his pocket. The wallet contained £70 in cash, bank cards, and a bus pass, leading to the victim becoming extremely upset and requiring his family to pick him up.

Pleaded guilty to theft. The judge described the offence as a 'mean and sly' theft. Defendant has 33 previous convictions, including robbery and burglary, and was on licence at the time of the crime.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Jamie Aston

Sending a message with intent to cause distress or anxiety

September 10, 2025

Sentence: 4 months imprisonment suspended for 18 months and a £500 fine

In May 2024, Jamie Aston sent graphic messages to a man he met while carrying out community service, describing the rape of a young girl and expressing a desire to watch the abuse, using explicit language. The recipient was concerned and reported the messages to the police by taking screenshots. Aston deleted his Facebook profile and discarded his phone upon arrest, and he answered 'no comment' during his police interview. He had a prior criminal history involving theft of items worth tens of thousands of pounds from horse shows and equine centres.

Pleaded guilty while heavily addicted to cocaine; messages were sent, in part, to shock the recipient; breaching a previous 15-month suspended sentence for theft and handling stolen goods imposed at Chester Crown Court; judge noted the offence was not sexual but malicious communications and questioned what possessed the defendant.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Abdul Kadir

Rape of a child under 13

September 10, 2025

Sentence: 20 years imprisonment

Abdul Kadir, a 54-year-old delivery driver from Crwys Terrace, Penlan, Swansea, repeatedly raped and sexually assaulted two girls under 13 on multiple occasions in the prayer room of his house. He began with kissing and touching before escalating to rape, threatening the victims that they would end up in a brothel or lose their ability to wear a hijab and eat halal food if they disclosed the abuse. The victims suffered overwhelming psychological and emotional trauma, including panic attacks, nightmares, flashbacks, and fear of men, leading to concerns about their future life goals. Medical examinations confirmed penetrative activity, and semen consistent with Kadir was found on the victims' clothing.

Pleaded guilty to four counts of sexual assault of a child under 13 and three counts of rape of a child under 13. The judge noted he caused unspeakable mental and physical harm, showed no remorse, and used threats to ensure the victims' silence. He has prior convictions for dishonesty offences.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Andrew Rees

Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Supply

September 9, 2025

Sentence: 3 years imprisonment

Andrew Rees, aged 25, was involved in supplying cocaine and cannabis from his home in Llanelli. He boasted to customers that his cocaine was the 'best in town' and sent price lists for deals ranging from £80 for one gram to £950 for an ounce. On July 31, 2025, police executed a search warrant at his property, finding 0.7g of cocaine, 16g of cannabis, weighing scales, phones with evidence of drug dealing including texts and Snapchat messages, empty plastic bags, and £310 in cash. Officers also discovered 136g of cocaine with 79% purity in the garden, believed to have been discarded during the search.

Pleaded guilty to possession of cocaine with intent to supply, possession of cannabis with intent to supply, being concerned in the supply of cocaine, being concerned in the supply of cannabis, and possession of criminal property. His family urged him to reflect on his actions and the risk of wasting his life in prison. The judge noted that his loved ones are also victims and that a custodial sentence was inevitable due to the nature of the offenses. He has prior convictions including possession of cannabis with intent to supply, affray, arson, and possession of an offensive weapon.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Oliver Nancarrow

Possession with intent to supply controlled drugs

September 8, 2025

Sentence: 3 years and 9 months in prison

Oliver Nancarrow operated a drug dealing network, sending out drug menus, offering free tester lines of cocaine to potential customers, and recruiting runners for deliveries. He used techniques such as magnetic storage units for hiding drugs, burner phones disposed of in the sea, and fake soft drink cans for concealment. Police executed a search warrant on July 7, 2025, at his home in Loughor, finding various drugs including cocaine, LSD, ecstasy, magic mushrooms, ketamine, and cannabis, along with cash and packaging materials. The drugs were valued at £13,350.

Pleaded guilty to possession and supply of controlled drugs; no previous convictions; judge noted a sophisticated operation involving cunning concealment techniques.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Rhys Copley

Possession of cocaine with intent to supply

September 8, 2025

Sentence: 3 years imprisonment

On July 28, 2025, Rhys Copley punched a man in the head outside a shop in St David's, Pembrokeshire, causing him to fall and then kicking him. Police arrested him and found £815 in cash and 10g of cannabis on his person. A search of his house revealed 30g of high-purity cocaine worth more than £5,000 and 381g of cannabis worth around £4,700. He had five previous convictions, including robbery and drug offences.

Pleaded guilty to possession of cocaine with intent to supply, possession of cannabis with intent to supply, possession of criminal property, and assault by beating. Judge noted that the defendant had not been brought up to behave this way and that his parents are respectable members of the community.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Stuart Callum Daniel Rees

Unlawful wounding

September 7, 2025

Sentence: Eight months imprisonment, suspended for 12 months, 150 hours of unpaid work, and £3,500 in compensation

Stuart Rees was involved in a brawl at the Abadam Arms pub in Porthrhyd, Carmarthenshire on December 22, 2022. During the altercation, he punched a stranger in the face, causing a displaced fracture of the victim's mandible, which required surgery with a metal plate fitted. Rees had consumed alcohol and fled the scene before handing himself in to police.

Pleaded guilty to unlawful wounding. No previous convictions. The incident was described as out of character, linked to alcohol consumption, and there was a significant delay in the case.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Liam Peat

Sexual activity with a child

September 4, 2025

Sentence: 45 months in prison

Liam Peat, aged 25, began communicating with a 13-year-old girl on Snapchat when he was 19, grooming her by building trust and engaging in sexual conversations. He requested intimate pictures, sent a video of himself masturbating, and had sexual intercourse with her multiple times when she was 14 and 15, often without protection, which led to her pregnancy. He initially lied about knowing her age and only pleaded guilty on the day of trial.

Pleaded guilty to two counts of engaging in sexual activity with a child. Has no previous convictions but two cautions for battery. Judge noted grooming and late expression of regret.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Amandeep Kukreja

Due diligence offence

September 4, 2025

Sentence: 12 months imprisonment suspended for 2 years and £325,000 confiscation order

Amandeep Kukreja ran a multi-million pound illegal vape business from a unit in Southall, London, supplying illegal vapes to shops across the UK. The vapes had liquid tanks up to 20ml, exceeding the legal limit of 2ml, and offered up to 15,000 puffs. Many originated from China. Swansea trading standards officers, with assistance from the Met Police, seized approximately 120,000 illegal vapes during a search in February 2024 as part of an investigation into illegal vape sales.

Pleaded guilty to a due diligence offence under the Consumer Protection From Unfair Trading Regulations 2008. No previous convictions. The judge noted the prosecution's practical approach and the removal of illegal vapes from circulation.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Dean Kelsahw

Drug dealing

August 29, 2025

Sentence: Imprisonment

Dean Kelsahw was involved in drug dealing as a car park cocaine dealer, with a bum bag stuffed with cash, indicating his ongoing criminal activity.

A judge stated that putting him in prison was the only way to stop him from committing crimes.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Nicholas Dylan Edwards

Sexual assault

August 29, 2025

Sentence: six years imprisonment

Nicholas Edwards took advantage of a woman who had passed out or fallen asleep after drinking alcohol at his property on December 28 of the previous year. The victim reported drinking wine and champagne, then blacking out and waking up in pain during the assault. The judge highlighted her vulnerability, whether voluntarily or involuntarily intoxicated, and noted suspicions of her drink being drugged, though not proven to the criminal standard.

Convicted at trial of sexual assault with no previous convictions. Judge noted a high level of suspicion that the victim's drink was drugged to stupefy her. Defendant used remand time constructively, including as a reading mentor, and custody may result in loss of home and livelihood. Judge acknowledged defendant's loneliness, depression, and separation from family as a father-of-two.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Josh Smith

Arson

August 28, 2025

Sentence: 16 months in a young offenders' institution

Josh Smith set fire to his ex-partner's clothes and posted a video of the incident on Instagram following the breakdown of their relationship. He also attempted to torch a wheelie bin belonging to a family member of his former girlfriend and deliberately started a fire in the toilets of the Somerset Arms pub in Taibach.

Pleaded guilty to arson and attempted arson. Made subject of a restraining order banning contact with his former girlfriend for five years.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Zack Spencer

Possession and distribution of indecent images of children

August 28, 2025

Sentence: 20 months imprisonment, suspended for two years

Zack Spencer was involved in a network of individuals sharing child sexual abuse images and videos via the Kik messaging app. Police seized his phone in March 2022, discovering 77 illegal images and videos, including 11 Category A items depicting the most serious abuses such as oral rape of young boys. He admitted to exchanging images with others, including sending Category A material, and made comments to police about being 'highly sexed'. The offences occurred when he was aged 18 and 19, during a period of social isolation.

Pleaded guilty to possession and distribution of indecent images. No previous convictions. Barrister highlighted the need for rehabilitation to address underlying issues, and the judge noted that distribution offences typically warrant custody but rehabilitation was possible.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Rio Thomas

Engaging in sexual communications with a child

August 27, 2025

Sentence: 28 months in a young offenders institution

Between June and December 2024, Rio Thomas sent videos of himself masturbating and sexually explicit messages to schoolgirls via Snapchat. The messages included references to sex acts he wanted to engage in with his mother. When his victims blocked him, he created new Snapchat accounts to continue contact. He was arrested on December 14, 2024, in Briton Ferry, attempted to escape custody, and was later apprehended after a police search involving a drone. Thomas has a history of daily cannabis and cocaine use and one prior conviction for aggravated vehicle taking.

Pleaded guilty to causing a child to watch a sexual act, engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child, engaging in sexual communications with a child, and escaping lawful custody. Judge noted an obsession with sexual matters and a high risk of harm to children. He will be a registered sex offender for 10 years and is subject to a 10-year sexual harm prevention order.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Joshua Hopton

Making a threat to kill

August 26, 2025

Sentence: 16 months imprisonment suspended for 18 months, 20-day rehabilitation activity, 250 hours of unpaid work, and a restraining order

Joshua Hopton, aged 29, from Heol Callwen, Penycae, Swansea, went to his former partner's property uninvited around 7am on September 16, 2024. He forced his way into the home, demanded to see their son, pushed the woman twice, accused her of being in a relationship with another man, and threatened to kill her as he left. Their child was present during the incident, and he handed himself in to police later that day. The victim reported suffering from anxiety as a result.

Pleaded guilty to the offense. Apologises for his conduct, which was described as poor behaviour in an emotive situation. The judge noted that children were present and his behaviour was threatening throughout.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Lorraine Merriman

Burglary

August 26, 2025

Sentence: 27 months imprisonment

Lorraine Merriman, 46, burgled a flat in St Helen’s Road, Swansea, on the evening of July 20, 2025. The residents, a young family, returned from a nearby park to find their home in complete disarray, with a TV and mirror smashed, food taken from the kitchen, clothes removed from drawers, and toys strewn across the floor. The family could not stay there that night. Upon arrest, Merriman, who smelt of alcohol and had trouble standing, was abusive to police officers, using racial slurs such as calling one a 'dirty P*** c****' and threatening to bite another, before spitting on a female officer.

Pleaded guilty to burglary with intent to cause criminal damage, a racially aggravated public order offence, and assaulting a police constable. Had 16 previous offences including criminal damage and theft. Expressed disgust and apologised for her behaviour. The judge stated that only an immediate custodial sentence was appropriate due to the seriousness of the offending.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Owen Eynon

Harassment causing fear of violence

August 24, 2025

Sentence: 12 months imprisonment

Owen Eynon harassed his brother by sending dozens of abusive and threatening messages between June 9 and 12, 2025, after mistakenly transferring £53 that his brother had spent on food, fuel, and car repairs. He threatened to kill his sibling, burn his house down, and harm his family, leading to his arrest on June 16, 2025. The defendant has 10 previous convictions for 16 offences.

Pleaded guilty to harassment causing fear of violence. Reaction was wholly disproportionate, immature, and unnecessary. Subject to a previous 18-month suspended sentence for arson. Defendant is taking steps to address issues with alcohol, as noted by the judge.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

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