Swansea Crown Court Sentencing Results

Explore 79 verdicts at Swansea Crown Court (Swansea). Updated with the latest court outcomes.

Jamil Ahmed

Rape

August 1, 2025

Sentence: 20 years imprisonment with an extended licence of eight years

Jamil Ahmed raped a woman while she was passed out and showed her a video of the act. He engaged in controlling and coercive behaviour by stopping her from speaking to other men, blocking her family members from contacting her, shutting down her social media accounts, threatening to harm people she knew, controlling her emotions and finances, and sleeping outside her house and near her children's school. These offences were committed against four women.

Pleaded guilty to three charges of rape, three charges of controlling and coercive behaviour, and one charge of stalking. An indefinite restraining order was imposed.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Ryan Cottle

Attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child

July 31, 2025

Sentence: 8 months imprisonment, suspended for 2 years, plus 20-day rehabilitation activity requirement, 90-day alcohol abstinence and monitoring requirement, 10-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order, and sex offender registration for 10 years

Ryan Cottle, originally from Carmarthen and now of Chemical Road, Morriston, Swansea, contacted a decoy posing as a 14-year-old girl on social media and WhatsApp between February 8, 2024, and January 13, 2025. He steered conversations towards sexual topics, discussing his fetishes for nylon tights, stockings, and sexual acts involving feet. He asked if she wore tights, requested pictures of her feet and stockinged toes, and sent a picture of himself bare-chested. The decoy account notified police, leading to his arrest on January 15, 2025.

Pleaded guilty. Has mental health issues, vulnerabilities, and alcohol problems. Defence highlighted a realistic prospect of rehabilitation. Judge Geraint Walters imposed the sentence.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Adam Walters

Assault occasioning actual bodily harm

July 31, 2025

Sentence: 12 months imprisonment

Adam Walters, 35, of Heol Penlan, Longford, Neath Port Talbot, assaulted his then partner twice in bed. On January 29, 2025, during an argument, he kicked her with such force that she fell out of bed and hit her head on the wall, resulting in bruising and a lump. On February 5, 2025, another argument arose when she refused sex, leading him to punch her and cause bruising and swelling to her left eye. He threatened to kill himself if she reported the incidents, which delayed her reporting until a third party informed the police.

Pleaded guilty to two charges of assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Expressed remorse in court. Judge commented that the behaviour was pitiful and indicative of societal issues. A restraining order was imposed for three years, prohibiting contact with the victim.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Frank Standring

Attempting sexual communication with a child and attempting to meet a child following grooming

July 31, 2025

Sentence: 14 months imprisonment and a 10-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order

Frank Standring contacted a decoy profile on Facebook in May 2022, believing it to be a 13-year-old girl. He engaged in extensive inappropriate chats, lied about his location, sent images of his erect penis, asked if she would perform sex acts, expressed that he loved her regardless of her age, and arranged to meet her. He also advised her to block another man, calling him a 'nonce' and a 'dirty paedo'. This led to his confrontation by the paedophile hunter group at a church in Carmarthen where he was working, and his eventual arrest after initially denying knowledge of her age.

Pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity. Accepts full responsibility for his offending. Judge noted the persistence of his attempts and his potential to cause serious harm. There was a three-year delay in the case, for which he was not at fault.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Leanne Rees

Robbery

July 30, 2025

Sentence: 2.5 years imprisonment

Leanne Rees, 37, of no fixed abode, entered Tesco Express in St Helen's Road, Swansea, on June 23, 2025. She hid food items, including ready meals and steaks, under her jacket and took a bottle of laundry detergent. When confronted by the store's security guard as she tried to leave without paying, she struck him in the face with the bottle. She hit him again after leaving the store, then fled with the stolen items. She was later arrested on The Kingsway in Swansea. Her defence mentioned difficulties with receiving benefits and her remorse.

Pleaded guilty to robbery. Had 36 previous convictions, mostly for theft-related incidents. Judge Geraint Walters noted the need for security guards in shops and addressed her actions directly.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Dafydd Rutherford

Causing grievous bodily harm without intent

July 27, 2025

Sentence: 28 months imprisonment

Dafydd Rutherford shook his infant baby three or four times out of frustration while the mother was out for about 30 minutes, causing four bleeds on the brain, blood trickling down the spine, and lasting medical complications. The incident occurred in the afternoon, around 5pm or 6pm, when the baby was a few weeks old, leading to immediate hospitalisation, intensive care, and ongoing health issues including missed developmental milestones and the need for supervision.

Pleaded guilty to causing grievous bodily harm. The defendant understands he has caused irreparable damage to his baby and to the baby's family. Sentenced with a discount for the guilty plea.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Matthew Morgan

Burglary

July 23, 2025

Sentence: 3 years imprisonment

Matthew Morgan ram-raided a shop while on bail for previous offences, which included breaking into multiple vans and burgling a Spar shop to steal £1,700 worth of cigarettes and vapes.

He was on bail for breaking into a string of vans and burgling a Spar shop, stealing £1,700 of cigarettes and vapes.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Anthony Williams

Burglary

July 22, 2025

Sentence: 42 months in prison

Anthony Williams and Bobbie Kittle entered a house in the Sandfields area of Swansea on June 9, 2025, while the owner was asleep, stealing car keys and a Citroen DS4. Williams drove the stolen vehicle, leading to a high-speed police pursuit in Rhymney, where he reversed from a stinger device, swerved to avoid another, crashed into a fence, and was dragged from the car by officers with a Taser drawn. A large knife was found behind the driver's seat, and the victim reported anxiety, flashbacks, and disruption to daily life due to the loss of the car.

Pleaded guilty to burglary, aggravated vehicle taking, dangerous driving, driving while disqualified, and driving with no insurance. Has 46 previous convictions for 189 offences, including burglaries and driving matters. Was under the influence of drink or drugs during the crime. Judge highlighted the risks to public safety and the loss of victims' feelings of security.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Bobbie Kittle

Burglary

July 22, 2025

Sentence: 2 years in prison

Bobbie Kittle and Anthony Williams entered a house in the Sandfields area of Swansea on June 9, 2025, while the owner was asleep, stealing car keys and a Citroen DS4. The stolen vehicle was later involved in a police pursuit, during which stingers were deployed and a Taser was drawn. Kittle was in the passenger seat and remonstrated with officers upon arrest. A large knife was found in the car, and the victim reported feeling anxious with flashbacks, constantly checking locks, and worrying about being targeted.

Pleaded guilty to burglary and aggravated vehicle taking. Has 48 previous convictions for 84 offences, including a robbery in April 2023 for which she served 27 months. Judge noted the impact on victims' sense of security and safety in their homes.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Dean Williams

Threatening with a bladed article

July 20, 2025

Sentence: 21 months imprisonment

Dean Williams, aged 57, lived in a flat in the Sandfields area of Port Talbot and had an ongoing dispute with his neighbour over loud music. On April 21, 2025, the victim could not sleep due to the noise and complained the next day. On the evening of April 22, 2025, Williams, apparently under the influence of alcohol or another substance, shouted threats and smashed his neighbour's front door with an axe, demanding the victim come out. The victim was terrified and believed he might be attacked or killed. Police arrested Williams at his flat, where he was still holding the axe, and the damage to the property was estimated at £400 to £500.

Pleaded guilty to threatening with a bladed article and criminal damage. Has 19 previous convictions including battery and assault. Judge noted there was no realistic prospect of rehabilitation at the time, and a one-quarter discount was applied for the guilty pleas.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Melanie Martin

Supply of Cocaine

July 20, 2025

Sentence: 32 months imprisonment

Melanie Martin, aged 52, from Granogwen Road, Mayhill, Swansea, was involved in supplying cocaine and cannabis from her home. On May 9, police executed a search warrant and found 152g of cocaine valued at around £16,500, a vacuum-packed bag of cannabis worth £700, weighing scales, empty snap-seal bags, and £2,285 in cash. Messages on her phone indicated drug supply activities. She answered 'no comment' in interviews and has no prior convictions.

Pleaded guilty to drug-related offences. No previous convictions. Her advocate stated she dealt drugs to pay off housing arrears and realised the impact of Class A drugs while on remand. Judge noted she chose to make money from the misery of others.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Karl Griffiths

Kidnapping

July 20, 2025

Sentence: 31 months imprisonment

Karl Griffiths spent January 30, 2025, drinking at a friend's flat in Penclawdd, Wales, where he received a phone call, returned, locked the door, seized phones, and accused the couple of stealing. He attacked them with crutches, punched his friend repeatedly, smashed a lamp, forced his friend to strip naked, and paraded him through the village streets near the Penclawdd CK store. He later took the victim back, smashed a TV, and called the police threatening to kill someone.

Pleaded guilty to battery, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, criminal damage, and kidnapping. Has a substantial criminal history including non-domestic burglaries, dishonesty matters, weapons offences, and supplying Class A drugs. Judge described his behaviour as irrational and likely under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and noted that others regarded him as a kindly man.

Sources: manchestereveningnews.co.uk

Kieran Martin

Supply of Cocaine

July 20, 2025

Sentence: 28 months imprisonment

Kieran Martin, also known as Kieran Thomas, from Granogwen Road, Mayhill, Swansea, joined his mother in supplying cocaine. On May 9, police raided their home and seized 152g of cocaine valued at around £16,500, along with cannabis, weighing scales, empty snap-seal bags, and £2,285 in cash. Messages on his phone showed contact with his mother regarding drug supply. He answered 'no comment' in interviews and has no prior convictions.

Pleaded guilty to drug-related offences. No previous convictions. His barrister described his involvement as a stupid decision due to his close relationship with his mother and financial difficulties. He plans to move away upon release. Judge noted he chose to make money from the misery of others.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

James Hannify

Possession with Intent to Supply Cocaine and Cannabis

July 19, 2025

Sentence: 32 months imprisonment

James Hannify was involved in dealing Class A drugs, including conducting a suspected drug deal from a van where his wife and young child were present. On July 3, police found him with £500 in cash and bags of a white rock-like substance in the van. A search of his home revealed additional cocaine, £1,350 in cash, and cannabis in a kitchen cabinet. Mobile phones seized contained messages related to drug supply and a dealer's tick-list.

Pleaded guilty to possession of cocaine with intent to supply, being concerned in the supply of cocaine, possession of cannabis with intent to supply, being concerned in the supply of cannabis, and possession of criminal property. Has one previous conviction for criminal damage. Motivated by financial difficulties and expressed regret for involving his partner.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Michelle Bradshaw

Being Concerned in the Supply of Cocaine and Cannabis

July 19, 2025

Sentence: 22 months imprisonment suspended for 18 months, and a rehabilitation course

Michelle Bradshaw assisted her husband in drug supply operations, motivated by financial difficulties. Her role included putting drug deals outside the property for people to pick up. This occurred in the context of the couple's involvement in supplying Class A drugs, with police discovering evidence during an investigation on July 3.

Pleaded guilty to being concerned in the supply of cocaine and cannabis on the basis that her involvement was limited to assisting her partner on occasions and did not involve direct supply to people. Has no previous convictions. The judge noted that her children influenced the decision to suspend the sentence.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Christopher Ready

Shoplifting

July 19, 2025

Sentence: 17 weeks imprisonment

On June 12, 2025, Christopher Ready entered the Farm Foods store in Swansea's Parc Tawe retail park, placed 13 steaks worth approximately £70 into his bag, and left without paying. He was identified by police, arrested on June 23, 2025, and admitted to the offence, stating he had no funds and needed to eat. This incident is part of a pattern of repeated shoplifting offences, with prior convictions including thefts of protein powder, washing detergent, ham, bacon, and trainers in earlier 2025 incidents.

Defendant has 121 previous offences, including 70 for shoplifting over three decades. He made full admissions during interview and appealed the original 18-week sentence, which was reduced by one week. Judge described him as a 'professional thief' who steals for a living.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Manuel Nerguti

Production of a Class B Drug

July 18, 2025

Sentence: 6 months imprisonment

Manuel Nerguti was involved in operating a cannabis factory with an estimated street value of up to £242,000. The incident began when cannabis waste was dumped at an Aberystwyth recycling centre on 1 May 2025, leading to police stopping a hired Ford Transit van. Although initially released, a police raid on 7 June 2025 at a derelict house in Bridell, Cardigan, uncovered 260 mature cannabis plants across five rooms and the attic. The electricity supply had been bypassed, and drug trafficking paraphernalia was present. Nerguti attempted to escape during the raid but was apprehended hiding behind a washing machine.

Pleaded guilty to producing a class B drug. Detective Constable Sam Garside noted that the conviction was aided by public reporting and police intelligence.

Sources: cambrian-news.co.uk

George Payne

Burglary

July 18, 2025

Sentence: 30 months imprisonment

On February 4, 2025, George Payne broke into a man's home in Pontardawe while the victim was walking his dog. He stole the victim's car keys from a table near the back door, leading to the theft of an Audi A6 estate, which was driven away. The stolen car was later spotted by police, pursued through traffic, and abandoned in Treboeth. Payne was identified through CCTV and forensic evidence, and he was found in possession of keys to another stolen vehicle with false plates.

Pleaded guilty to burglary and handling stolen goods. Has an extensive criminal past including offences of public disorder, driving offences, perverting the course of justice, handling stolen goods, and drug supply matters. Defence highlighted a difficult upbringing and concern for his gravely ill mother.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Harry Thompson

Possession with intent to supply heroin and cocaine, and being concerned in supply

July 16, 2025

Sentence: 2 years and 4 months detention in a young offenders institution

Harry Thompson, 18, from Swansea, was chased and caught by police near Hafod Primary School while in possession of a Nokia burner phone used for sending bulk texts about drug supply, a coffee jar with 60 wraps of heroin and cocaine, additional bags of drugs, and a dealer's list showing debts owed, including one for £1,650. He was homeless and involved in street-level drug dealing.

Pleaded guilty to possession of heroin with intent to supply, possession of cocaine with intent to supply, and being concerned in the supply of both drugs. He had no previous convictions but was on bail for suspected involvement in supplying ketamine and heroin at the time of arrest.

Sources: somersetlive.co.uk

Jayley Rickman

Possession with intent to supply heroin and cocaine

July 16, 2025

Sentence: 4 years and 4 months imprisonment

Jayley Rickman, 21, from Weston-super-Mare, was caught by undercover police near Hafod Primary School in Swansea with three cocaine deals in his hand, 37 wraps of heroin and cocaine on the steps beside him, a lock-knife, £70 in cash, and an iPhone. He was involved in supplying class A drugs and had a history of drug-related offenses, including a prior 45-month sentence for dealing crack and heroin.

Pleaded guilty to possession of heroin with intent to supply, possession of crack with intent to supply, and possession of a bladed article. He had prior convictions and was on licence at the time, having been released from a previous sentence.

Sources: somersetlive.co.uk

Joshua Hearn

Stalking

July 16, 2025

Sentence: 12 months imprisonment suspended for two years and a rehabilitation course

Joshua Hearn, after his five-year relationship ended on April 9, 2025, bombarded his ex-partner with hundreds of messages, calls, and emails from various numbers and accounts, including threats to be her 'worst nightmare' and statements like 'I will f****** ruin you'. He contacted her workplace, pretending to be her brother to report a family emergency, then appeared at the Llansamlet supermarket, followed her around the aisles, and threatened to get her sacked. This conduct caused her significant distress, leading to changes in her routines, installation of CCTV, and seeking counselling.

Pleaded guilty to stalking. Had one previous conviction for assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Judge noted that the defendant had relentlessly pursued his ex-partner using vulgar, aggressive, and threatening language, but highlighted a realistic prospect of rehabilitation.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Thomas Hulson

Supply of cocaine and heroin

July 16, 2025

Sentence: 27 months imprisonment

Thomas Hulson was found in a Swansea car park in a vehicle with stolen and cloned plates, in the company of a known Class A drug user. Police discovered packages of heroin and cocaine in his underwear, and examination of his phones revealed bulk text messages related to the supply of these drugs. He claimed he was in Swansea to visit a beach for his birthday but could not specify which one and denied knowledge of the items. He has one prior conviction for possession of cannabis.

Pleaded guilty to being concerned in the supply of cocaine, being concerned in the supply of heroin, possession of cocaine with intent to supply, and possession of heroin with intent to supply. Judge described his account as highly implausible and noted his background of growing up in care and reflections on life choices while on remand.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Peshawa Zada

Participating in a Fraudulent Business

July 15, 2025

Sentence: 1 year and 10 months imprisonment

Peshawa Zada operated a shop in Swansea selling illegal vapes and cigarettes, with products hidden in secret compartments such as above light fittings and behind false panels. Previously, in Hull in April 2022, authorities seized over 17,000 cigarettes and tobacco from his shop, car, and other locations, with the total value of seized goods exceeding £12,000 for the Hull offences and around £100,000 for the Swansea offences. The activities involved repeated raids and involved supplying items that did not comply with UK regulations, including counterfeit products and vapes exceeding legal nicotine limits.

Pleaded guilty to participating in a fraudulent business, offering for sale goods bearing false trademarks, and supplying electronic cigarettes and tobacco products that breached regulations. Judge noted deliberate planning, repeated offending, and that age was a mitigating factor, while ongoing investigations for similar offences were aggravating.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Daryl Lawton

Possession of prohibited images of children

July 15, 2025

Sentence: 8 months imprisonment suspended for 2 years and ordered to complete a rehabilitation course

Daryl Lawton, while on licence from a previous sentence for possession of indecent images, downloaded 3,937 pseudo-images of children, including computer-generated images of boys as young as five being raped by adult men. He also conducted sinister internet searches related to child rape and phrases like 'no to age of consent'. This occurred in 2024, shortly after his release in February. Police seized his laptop during a home visit, and he was arrested. Lawton admitted responsibility and cited his autism as compelling him to categorise the material.

Pleaded guilty to possession of prohibited images of children. Has two previous convictions for similar offences. Judge noted deep-seated paedophilic traits and that the defendant was recalled to prison to serve the remainder of a previously imposed 20-month sentence.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Dean John

Causing serious injury by careless driving

July 14, 2025

Sentence: 16 weeks imprisonment suspended for 12 months and 120 hours of unpaid work

Dean John, a 55-year-old former firefighter, pulled out of a minor road onto the A477 near Red Roses on August 25, 2024, directly into the path of an oncoming motorcyclist, causing a collision with his Kia Niro car. The motorcyclist was thrown from his machine and sustained severe injuries, including a bleed on the brain, a fractured pelvis, and fractured wrists. The road conditions were dry, and the incident was attributed to John's failure to judge the speed and path of the bike correctly.

Pleaded guilty to causing serious injury by careless driving. No previous convictions. Devastated by the incident and its consequences.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Jordan Hayes

Voyeurism

July 14, 2025

Sentence: 14 months imprisonment suspended for two years, mental health treatment requirement, rehabilitation course, registered sex offender for 10 years, and sexual harm prevention order for 10 years

Jordan Hayes loitered outside public toilets on Aberavon seafront in April 2025, watching people enter and leave before following lone boys inside. He occupied the adjacent cubicle and angled his phone under the partition wall to film the boys using the facilities. The incidents were reported after a seven-year-old victim disclosed seeing the phone, leading to his identification via CCTV and his car. Police seized his phone, which contained videos of two boys, one aged seven and another around 10 years old, as well as related searches and images, though no charges were brought for the latter.

Pleaded guilty to two counts of voyeurism and one count of making a Category C indecent image of a child. No previous convictions. Judge described the offending as 'most concerning' and called him a 'pervert'.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Joshua Pope

Supply of crack cocaine and heroin

July 11, 2025

Sentence: Three years imprisonment

Joshua Pope operated a drug dealing phone line known as the 'Oscar' line, supplying crack cocaine and heroin between February and June 2025. He was identified through detailed phone forensics and analysis of his movements. Pope was arrested upon his return from a holiday in Morocco on June 9, 2025, after officers boarded his flight at Stansted Airport.

Pleaded guilty to being concerned in the supply of crack cocaine and heroin. A discount was applied for the guilty pleas.

Sources: dailypost.co.uk

James Thomas

Sexual activity with a child

July 10, 2025

Sentence: 4 years and 4 months imprisonment

James Thomas, in his mid-20s at the time, groomed and sexually abused a schoolgirl in 2012 and 2013 at the garage in Morriston where he worked. He initiated sexual activity with the child through texting and abuse that occurred when the business owner was absent. On one occasion, the victim spent the night in the garage after lying to her mother about a sleepover, and later waited at a McDonald's restaurant. The victim reported the abuse in 2023 after seeking advice online, stating that Thomas had been sexually aggressive and had given her items like cigarettes. The abuse left her feeling lonely, isolated, and unworthy, leading to issues with substance use and emotional struggles.

Pleaded guilty to five counts of sexual activity with a child and one count of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity. No previous convictions. Judge noted his intellectual and emotional age was less than his chronological age, reducing but not extinguishing his culpability, and stated he knew what he was doing was wrong. He will serve up to half the sentence in custody and the remainder on licence, and will be a registered sex offender for life.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Anthony Dean Merriman

Perverting the course of justice

July 10, 2025

Sentence: 3 years imprisonment

Anthony Dean Merriman falsely accused his friend Adam Phillips of an armed robbery as an act of revenge. He claimed he was threatened with a screwdriver, had items stolen, and was assaulted, leading to a police investigation. Merriman provided detailed false statements, including lying about washing his face with bleach to avoid DNA swabs and later claiming a brain injury. This resulted in Phillips spending 14 hours in custody and consumed at least 45 hours of police resources. Phillips died before providing a victim impact statement.

Pleaded guilty to perverting the course of justice. Had 18 previous convictions for offences including theft. Judge described his actions as 'wicked' and an act of 'revenge', noting he told malicious lies and wasted police time.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Anthony Merriman

Making a malicious lie

July 10, 2025

Sentence: 3 years imprisonment

Anthony Merriman made up a malicious lie about a friend, which led to an innocent man being held in police cells for 14 hours.

Joshua Lee Cullen

Manslaughter

July 9, 2025

Sentence: 8 years imprisonment

Joshua Cullen was present during events leading to the death of Joshua Norman on September 11, 2024, in Swansea. After a night of drinking and drug use, Cullen accompanied his uncle Paul Rosser and Norman on a trip to buy drugs, which involved altercations in a car and outside a shop. Cullen supported Rosser during the assault where Rosser stabbed Norman in the throat with a smashed cider bottle, though Cullen did not inflict the injury himself.

Convicted of manslaughter for assisting or encouraging his uncle. Grew up in a household characterised by maternal neglect and exposure to alcohol and drug misuse. Has previous convictions for two robberies, wounding, and arson. The judge determined that Cullen's presence supported the attack, intending some harm to the victim.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Paul David Rosser

Murder

July 9, 2025

Sentence: Life imprisonment with a minimum term of 18 years

Paul Rosser spent the night of September 10, 2024, drinking alcohol and smoking crack cocaine with Joshua Norman and others at Norman's flat in Swansea. The next morning, Rosser, Norman, and Joshua Cullen travelled by car to buy drugs, during which a dispute occurred. Rosser later smashed a glass cider bottle and used it to stab Norman in the throat during an altercation on Cwm Road, Swansea, on September 11, 2024. Norman collapsed and died from the neck wound despite efforts by passers-by and emergency services.

Convicted of murder after a retrial. Had 45 previous convictions including wounding, assault, aggravated burglary, and robbery. The judge noted that Rosser deliberately fashioned a weapon and intended to kill the victim, who was no longer useful to him for obtaining drugs. Rosser has a low IQ and long-standing issues with alcohol and drug misuse.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Liam Jones

Conspiracy to commit fraud

July 8, 2025

Sentence: 14 months imprisonment, suspended for 18 months, plus 200 hours of unpaid work and a rehabilitation course

Liam Jones participated in a conspiracy to use stolen bank details from elderly and vulnerable victims to fraudulently obtain building materials worth nearly £10,000 from suppliers in Swansea between March 19 and 26, 2025. He collected goods in a van as part of the operation, which involved fictitious company names and stolen payment details, and was arrested while attempting to pick up an order.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit fraud, driving while disqualified, and driving without insurance. No prior convictions; previously served in the military and has a good work ethic; described as a 'vital cog' in the criminal enterprise but was under investigation for similar offences at the time.

Sources: lancs.live

Benjamin Poyton

Conspiracy to commit fraud

July 8, 2025

Sentence: 14 months imprisonment

Benjamin Poyton was involved in a conspiracy to use stolen bank details from elderly and vulnerable victims to fraudulently purchase copper piping and other items worth nearly £10,000 from building supply firms in Swansea between March 19 and 26, 2025. He collected the goods in a van and sold them at scrap yards, including dropping off copper pipes in Cardiff on multiple dates. He was arrested while attempting to collect an order and refused to provide his phone PIN.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit fraud, driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence, and driving without insurance. Described as a 'vital cog' in a large-scale criminal enterprise; has 28 prior convictions including drugs, dishonesty, violence, and public disorder.

Sources: lancs.live

Scott Boland

Possession of cocaine with intent to supply

July 8, 2025

Sentence: two years and eight months in prison

Scott Boland was involved in trading and supplying cocaine, refusing to deliver drugs and instead requiring customers to pick them up. On August 16, police spotted him in Clase, leading to a chase where he was arrested after falling onto a vehicle's bonnet. A search of his person found £345 in cash, and further searches of his vehicle and home uncovered 26.5g of cocaine, £2,960 in cash, weighing scales with drug traces, empty drug bags, and an extendable baton. Analysis of his phone revealed messages related to drug supply, including bulk texts to contacts.

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. Had one prior conviction for battery. Judge described him as a businessman flashing cash earned from the misery of others and noted his remorse and past cocaine addiction.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Vusumuzi Tenga

Supply of Cocaine

July 8, 2025

Sentence: 28 months imprisonment

Vusumuzi Tenga, a 36-year-old man, began dealing cocaine after losing his engineering job due to the Covid pandemic and associating with negative influences. In April 2025, police in Neath recovered phones from known drug users containing messages from Tenga, such as 'on' and 'about', indicating he was supplying drugs. Further investigation linked the phone number to Tenga, who had previously contacted police about an assault. Upon arrest, his phone was seized and found to contain bulk messages related to cocaine supply. Tenga admitted in interview that he supplied drugs only to fund his own use and not for profit.

Pleaded guilty to the offence. Expressed remorse for his actions. Has four previous convictions for eight offences, including possession of cannabis, driving with excess alcohol, and failing to comply with a community order. Was a former pastor and youth worker who mentored young people to avoid crime, but fell into drug dealing after losing his job and associating with bad company.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Bledart Livadhi

Possession of cannabis with intent to supply

July 7, 2025

Sentence: 3 months imprisonment

Bledart Livadhi was stopped by police while driving a car near Swansea in May 2025, which contained a kilogramme of cannabis worth approximately £11,000. He claimed he had borrowed the car and was unaware of the drugs, but was acting as a courier for an Albanian organised crime group. The car was seized as it was believed to belong to the crime group.

Pleaded guilty to possession of cannabis with intent to supply. Acting as a courier for an Albanian drug gang and will face deportation after serving his sentence.

Sources: leicestermercury.co.uk

Gareth Davies

Attempted sexual communications with a child

July 5, 2025

Sentence: 18 months imprisonment

Gareth Davies, 64, contacted a decoy Facebook profile posing as a 14-year-old girl in November 2024, sending messages complimenting her appearance, inquiring about her sexual experiences, and sharing a video of himself singing the Coldplay song 'Yellow'. He discussed meeting her in Yorkshire and referred to himself as her 'cyber uncle'. Members of a paedophile hunter group identified and confronted him at his boat in Swansea Marina on December 12, 2024, leading to his arrest. He has prior convictions for stalking and harassment.

Judge Paul Thomas KC described him as a 'very calculating individual' and considered him a dangerous offender. He maintained his innocence during the trial and to the pre-sentence report author. He was also placed on the sex offenders register.

Sources: dailypost.co.uk

Mathew George Jones

Inflicting Grievous Bodily Harm

June 29, 2025

Sentence: 27 months imprisonment

On May 2, 2024, Mathew George Jones assaulted his 62-year-old neighbour in Penydre Road, Clydach, after involving himself in a dispute that was not his concern. He shouted abuse, grabbed the victim by the throat, took him to the ground, and repeatedly punched him in the head with considerable force, causing a broken nose, fractured eye socket, and a seven-centimetre gash on the forehead that required 17 stitches. The victim, who had undergone heart surgery months earlier, was left bleeding heavily, and neighbours failed to assist. Jones later gave a false account to police and the victim suffered ongoing anxiety, vision issues, and had to relocate from his home of 32 years.

Pleaded guilty to inflicting grievous bodily harm. Shown no remorse. Has prior convictions including assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Is a full-time carer for his son, and the judge noted a long-term dislike for the victim.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Morgan Mason

Possession with Intent to Supply Heroin and Crack Cocaine

June 29, 2025

Sentence: 3 years detention

Morgan Mason was caught dealing heroin and crack cocaine as part of a county lines operation known as the 'Diesel' line in Swansea Marina on June 2, 2025. Police observed him with two other males in an area associated with drug transactions. He fled from officers, discarding a burner phone, and was apprehended with £670 in cash, a phone, and 25 wraps of heroin and crack worth up to £950. The burner phone evidenced large-scale drug supply through bulk messages sent in March, April, and May 2025. He has a prior conviction for inflicting grievous bodily harm and other offences.

Pleaded guilty to possession of crack with intent to supply and possession of heroin with intent to supply. Judge noted he was living off the misery of others due to drug dealing and advised him to think about his mother and the path he is on. Previous suspended sentence of 11 months for inflicting grievous bodily harm and other offences was activated for 4 months to run consecutively. Defence cited cannabis addiction and influence by more criminally minded individuals.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Dennis Horeshka

Producing cannabis

June 29, 2025

Sentence: 32 months imprisonment

Dennis Horeshka was found in a disused restaurant in Swansea that had been turned into a cannabis farm with 903 plants valued at up to £395,000. He had paid smugglers to enter the UK and was working to repay his debt by tending the plants. The police raid occurred on May 8, 2025, and the operation included growing equipment across the premises, with a hole knocked through to a neighbouring property.

Pleaded guilty to producing cannabis. No previous convictions. Entered the UK illegally with help from people traffickers and owed them money. Any earnings not paid to the gang were sent to his family in Albania. Expressed remorse for his involvement.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Aleksander Cela

Producing cannabis

June 29, 2025

Sentence: 32 months imprisonment

Aleksander Cela was found in a disused restaurant in Swansea that had been converted into a commercial-scale cannabis farm with 903 plants worth up to £395,000. He had paid people smugglers to enter the UK illegally and was in debt to them. He was living in the premises and tending the plants, which included watering them, prior to a police raid on May 8, 2025. The operation involved sophisticated growing equipment across multiple floors.

Pleaded guilty to producing cannabis. No previous convictions. Was a painter and decorator in Albania and owed money to people smugglers. Had been tending the cannabis plants for about two months and expressed regret for his involvement.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Allan Lapping

Possession with intent to supply

June 29, 2025

Sentence: 32 months imprisonment

Allan Lapping, a 47-year-old former taxi driver, pulled up in a Nissan Juke in the Waun Wen area of Swansea on April 29, 2025. Undercover officers, monitoring an area known for Class A drug supply, observed a group on the street and saw Lapping arrive. Upon searching him, police found more than 80 wraps of heroin and cocaine hidden in his pants, along with two heroin deals and two crack deals in his hand, £1,147 in cash in his shoulder bag, and additional wraps in a bag on the seat. Lapping had turned to drug dealing due to financial difficulties after losing his taxi licence and job at an Amazon warehouse, but he now regrets his actions.

Pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity, receiving a one-third discount on his sentence. He has two previous convictions from 1996 and 1997 for unrelated offences. His barrister noted that he now works as a barista in prison and is motivated to be a good role model for his two children. Judge Geraint Walters highlighted that Lapping was caught with significant quantities of Class A drugs and knew the risks involved.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Lee Lock

Dangerous Driving

June 19, 2025

Sentence: 18 months imprisonment and a 3-year driving ban

On January 20, 2025, Lee Lock drove a VW Golf erratically, swerving across the road, clipping a kerb, and remaining stationary at green lights. He was seen staggering at a garage forecourt. Later, he lost control on a roundabout, causing a head-on crash into a van, which left the other driver trapped and injured. Additionally, a bladed article was found in his vehicle during a prior investigation in June 2024.

Pleaded guilty to possession of a bladed article, dangerous driving, driving while disqualified, and driving without insurance. Judge noted the defendant had a disregard for the safety of other road users and was clearly affected by alcohol.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Samie Jay Ireland

Burglary

June 18, 2025

Sentence: 21 months imprisonment

Samie Ireland attended a woman's home in Margam in an intoxicated state in February 2025 and was asked to leave. The following day, he called her 103 times after being blocked. On March 5, 2025, he smashed a living room window, climbed into her house, threatened to batter her, and drove off in her car. He returned the keys on condition she not contact the police, but she did. Upon arrest, he assaulted officers by kicking, biting, spitting, and making threats, including that he knew where they lived.

Pleaded guilty to burglary, driving while disqualified, and two counts of assaulting an emergency worker. Judge noted his pattern of pursuing women and inability to take no for an answer, with prior convictions for similar offences.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Joshua Jenkins

Possession of cocaine with intent to supply

June 18, 2025

Sentence: Two years and six months in prison

Joshua Jenkins was involved in dealing cocaine and cannabis, targeting a busy nightclub on New Year's Eve, January 1, 2023, in Queen Street, Carmarthen. He was caught on CCTV exchanging packages and cash, leading to his arrest with four cocaine deals and £400 in cash. A search of his home revealed three phones, weighing scales, cannabis, cocaine, and a cutting agent. His phones showed messages related to drug dealing dating back to September 2022, including bulk messages and threats from a drug gang that compelled him to sell drugs due to debts.

Pleaded guilty to possession of cocaine with intent to supply, being concerned in the supply of cocaine, possession of cannabis with intent to supply, and being concerned in the supply of cannabis. He has seven previous convictions, including possession of cannabis, possession of a bladed article, and committing offences while on bail. The judge noted aggravating factors such as continuing to offend after arrest.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Alex John

Possession of cocaine with intent to supply

June 18, 2025

Sentence: Two years and five months in prison

Alex John was caught dealing cocaine and cannabis in a nightclub on New Year's Eve, January 1, 2023, in Queen Street, Carmarthen, after CCTV operators reported suspicious exchanges. He was found with six cocaine deals, two bags of cannabis, and £400 in cash. A search of his home uncovered weighing scales, five phones, and empty snap-bags. His phones revealed messages about drug supplying dating back to July 2022, including contacts with his co-defendant and references to re-stocking drugs. Additionally, he engaged in controlling or coercive behaviour towards his partner while on bail for the drug offences.

Pleaded guilty to possession of cocaine with intent to supply, being concerned in the supply of cocaine, and being concerned in the supply of cannabis, as well as an unrelated offence of engaging in controlling or coercive behaviour. He has two previous convictions for six offences. The judge considered his youth and immaturity, but noted he continued to offend while on bail.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Dean Snooks

Affray

June 17, 2025

Sentence: 12-month suspended sentence for 18 months, rehabilitation course, mental health treatment requirement, and 200 hours of unpaid work

On 1 May 2023, during a Fleetwood Mac tribute performance at Swansea's Grand Theatre, Dean Snooks engaged in a verbal altercation with two brothers over disruptive behaviour, which escalated into a physical fight involving kicks and shoving a security guard. Police were called, and he was apprehended; victim impact statements highlighted anxiety and fear in the victims.

Did not plead guilty; has prior convictions of some age; acted as a peacemaker initially but his role changed; hard-working individual who may lose his security licence.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Daniel James Thyer

Sexual activity with a child and exposure

June 17, 2025

Sentence: 12 months imprisonment, 10-year sexual harm prevention order, and registration as a sex offender for 10 years

On February 26, 2025, Daniel Thyer was seen sitting on a grass bank near a children's play area in Morriston Park with his trousers around his ankles, masturbating while holding his mobile phone. He had been grooming a young boy by giving him vapes, money, and energy drinks, and had engaged in physical acts including putting his hands down the boy's trousers, pushing his erect penis into the boy from behind over his clothes, and touching the boy's bottom. There were no children in the play area at the time, but two teenage boys were nearby.

Pleaded guilty to exposure and sexual activity with a child. Judge noted clear evidence of grooming behaviour and described the actions as predatory sexual behaviour. Defendant has no previous convictions and has learning difficulties.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Kirsty Davies

Affray

June 17, 2025

Sentence: 9-month suspended sentence for 18 months and 250 hours of unpaid work

On 1 May 2023, during a Fleetwood Mac tribute performance at Swansea's Grand Theatre, Kirsty Davies was involved in a verbal altercation over disruptive behaviour that escalated into a physical fight with kicks. Theatre staff tried to defuse the situation, but it persisted until police arrived; victims reported ongoing anxiety and fear of crowds.

Pleaded guilty; no prior criminal record; over-indulged in alcohol on the night and expressed horror and shame; has abstained from alcohol since; mother to a 16-year-old son.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

No sentences found matching your search.