Swansea Crown Court Sentencing Results

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

Dean Kelshaw

Being concerned in the supply of cocaine

August 23, 2025

Sentence: 5 years and 8 months imprisonment

Dean Kelshaw was operating a significant cocaine dealing operation in Swansea. On June 25, 2025, he was caught in a car park with £987 in cash, 26g of cocaine worth up to £1,500, and a dealer's tick list showing debts exceeding £12,500. This was his third instance of being caught dealing Class A drugs in Swansea, and he has prior convictions for similar offences, including recruiting others as drug runners.

Pleaded guilty to being concerned in the supply of cocaine, possession of criminal property, and possession of cannabis. Has 61 previous convictions, including for drug offences. Judge stated that prison is the only way to stop him from committing crimes, and the sentence runs concurrently with his current period of recall.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Debbie Thomas

Assault Occasioning Actual Bodily Harm

August 23, 2025

Sentence: 27 months imprisonment

On February 19, 2025, Debbie Thomas encountered a vulnerable man on Swansea's High Street as he returned home with bottles of lager. She followed him, forced her way into his flat, and subjected him to a vicious assault, including throttling him with a rucksack strap. She stole his phone, medication, and lager, and threatened to make false sexual allegations if he contacted the police. The victim suffered a partially collapsed lung, damage to his bowel, and extensive bruising.

Pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm and theft. Has 37 previous convictions. Judge stated she showed her victim no mercy and noted her client's intention to reform after release.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Leah Church

Arranging the commission of a child sexual offence

August 22, 2025

Sentence: 5 years imprisonment

Leah Church was convicted of multiple child cruelty offences and arranging the commission of a child sexual offence in the Neath area. The sexual offence involved a young boy being abused by two unknown men in the back of a car, which she dismissed by laughing it off. The victims provided statements detailing the severe psychological impact of her actions, and she was supported by a pre-sentence report highlighting her past instability.

Convicted at trial of child cruelty offences and arranging the commission of a child sexual offence. Has 10 previous convictions including public disorder and criminal damage. Expressed a desire not to return to court and is now leading a more stable life. Will serve up to half the sentence in custody before release on licence. Registered as a sex offender for 10 years and subject to a sexual harm prevention order for 10 years.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Ross Milward

Harassment

August 19, 2025

Sentence: 26 months imprisonment

Ross Milward, after separating from his partner in December of the previous year, began sending hundreds of abusive and threatening messages, including threats to stab her in the face and harm a new partner. He turned up uninvited at her home in early February and continued the abuse despite being arrested and bailed. In April, he threatened another woman with a glass after she was late for a date and was seen confronting someone with a knife in a public place in Townhill, Swansea, leading to a physical altercation.

Pleaded guilty to harassment, sending threatening communications, and threatening with a bladed article. Judge commented on his 'vile and relentless bullying' due to alcohol consumption and personality issues, and noted his string of previous convictions for similar offences.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Stafford Jones

Unlawful wounding

August 14, 2025

Sentence: 22 months imprisonment

On 14 July 2023, at Bar 46 on Bridge Street in Aberystwyth, Stafford Jones engaged in a disagreement with a woman who was pointing and making contact with him. He responded by striking her in the face with his forearm or elbow, causing her to lose consciousness and sustain a laceration to her lip that required stitching, as well as bruising and swelling to her face. The incident was captured on the pub's CCTV, and Jones fled the scene, later being arrested in Liverpool a month later. He claimed the woman was aggressive and had pushed him, but admitted his response was excessive.

Admitted to the charge of unlawful wounding. Judge described him as a 'coward' and noted his 14 previous convictions for offences including violent disorder, drugs matters, breach of a restraining order, and multiple assaults. He expressed remorse, stating his reaction was excessive, and acknowledged he is not a good role model for his two young daughters.

Sources: cambrian-news.co.uk

William Doheny

Sexual activity with a child

August 11, 2025

Sentence: Two-year community order including 20-day rehabilitation and 250 hours of unpaid work, plus a five-year restraining order

William Doheny sexually abused a primary school-aged girl when he was under 16. He played games with her that turned sexual, including wrestling, touching her breasts, and telling her she needed to learn 'how to make out'. He also forced her to perform oral sex on him on more than one occasion. The abuse occurred several years ago, and the victim reported lasting effects, including struggles with mental health and suicidal thoughts.

Pleaded guilty to four counts of sexual activity with a child. In mitigation, described as an able young man wanting to move forward and gain employment. Sentenced by Judge Lucy Crowther.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Odin Parry

Fraud by False Representation

August 8, 2025

Sentence: 16 months imprisonment suspended for 12 months and 150 hours of unpaid work

Odin Parry, a 39-year-old former employee of the Spar store on Terrace Road in Aberystwyth, stole lottery scratch cards worth £20,370 between 1 November 2023 and 21 June 2024. He also presented the stolen scratch cards to the lottery terminal and claimed winnings of £33,491 through fraud by false representation.

Megan Taylor

Theft

August 8, 2025

Sentence: 18-month community order, 12-month mental health treatment programme, and five days of rehabilitation activity requirement

On January 25, 2025, Megan Taylor visited Stephen Hughes Fine Diamonds in Swansea's Quadrant shopping centre, where she asked to view expensive diamond rings. She requested a glass of water, claiming to feel faint, and used the opportunity to steal a solitaire diamond ring valued at £4,950 by slipping it into her pocket. The theft was captured on CCTV, and she left the store without purchasing anything. She was arrested on February 8, 2025, and claimed she acted in confusion, possibly under the influence of alcohol and drugs or due to an epileptic seizure. Despite receiving an inheritance of nearly £70,000, she had spent it all and could not repay the amount immediately.

Pleaded guilty to theft. No previous convictions. Ordered to repay £4,950 at £150 per month starting from October. Judge expressed suspicions but gave benefit of the doubt.

Sources: dailypost.co.uk

Dean Pellington

Making indecent images of children

August 6, 2025

Sentence: 6 months imprisonment, suspended for 18 months, 26 sessions of an accredited programme, and 20 rehabilitation activity days

Dean Pellington was arrested on May 29, 2024, for an unrelated matter, during which police seized his devices and discovered over 200 images of extreme pornography. These included indecent images of children, such as those involving girls aged 8 and 12, and images of animals, with two images being Category A. He initially denied any sexual interest and claimed the images were sent via a group, but the judge found this unconvincing.

No previous convictions. Judge stated he has a sexual interest in children and dismissed his claim of accidental receipt. His lawyer noted his wife's poor health and his role supporting children with extra challenges.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Conner Willis

Possession of a weapon in a public place

August 6, 2025

Sentence: 14 months imprisonment

On July 7, 2025, at 3am, Conner Willis was seen on CCTV in Swansea’s High Street waving a knife while arguing with a man, then putting it down his trousers. He chased another man with the knife and threw it towards him near Matthew Street, missing the target. Later that morning, he was seen waving the knife again at Cross Street in Waun Wen. He was found hiding under a bush on July 9, 2025, and arrested after refusing to cooperate with police.

Pleaded guilty to possession of a weapon in a public place. Has 11 previous convictions including assault against a former partner, battery, and shoplifting. Suffers from heroin and crack cocaine addiction, and was experiencing withdrawals. Refused to cooperate with police. Judge noted the offence was aggravated by previous convictions and drug use, and agreed that custody was the only appropriate sentence.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Shone Bell

Making threats to kill

August 6, 2025

Sentence: 12 months immediate custody and a five-year restraining order

On February 8, 2025, Shone Bell entered his father Neil Bell's home in Llanelli, threatened to kill him by saying, 'I’m actually going to kill you tonight,' and held him hostage while threatening to use a glass to cut his throat. He also racially abused a Polish police officer during his arrest and spat in the police vehicle approximately 20 times. The defendant has a history of violence, including a prior conviction for battery against his father, and 28 convictions for 54 offences involving violence, dishonesty, and drugs.

Pleaded guilty to making threats to kill, racially-aggravated intentional harm or distress, and criminal damage. The judge noted the defendant's extensive criminal history and advised him to seek help for his mental health to avoid further imprisonment.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

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

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

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

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

Ivo Mclusky

Being concerned in the supply of cannabis

July 26, 2025

Sentence: 18 months imprisonment suspended for 18 months, rehabilitation course, and 150 hours of unpaid work

Ivo Mclusky, a 23-year-old university student, was buying cannabis in bulk from a large-scale supplier and selling it to fellow students to fund his own habit of spending £500 a week on the drug. Police executed a search warrant at his home in the Uplands area of Swansea in September last year, recovering cannabis vapes, traces of cannabis, self-seal bags, weighing scales, £1,370 in cash, and mobile phones. Examination of the phones revealed extensive dealings with his supplier, Joshua O'Sullivan, including purchases of large quantities like one kilo at a time, with more than £65,000 exchanged over 10 months.

Pleaded guilty to being concerned in the supply of cannabis, possession of cannabis, and possession of criminal property. Had one prior conviction for domestic burglary. Judge commented on his heavy drug use and the harm caused, noting he had been selfish and caused distress to his family.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Amy Jeffreys

Supply of Heroin and Cocaine

July 25, 2025

Sentence: Three-and-a-half years imprisonment

Amy Jeffreys assisted Ryan Sarsfield in operating the 'Pounds' drug line by putting individuals wanting to buy heroin and cocaine in touch with him and permitting him to use her house in Gomer Road, Townhill, Swansea, for the operation. Her involvement stemmed from her own cocaine addiction, which had negatively impacted her family life. Police discovered drugs and related items in her home during the arrest on March 13.

Pleaded guilty to being concerned in the supply of heroin and cocaine. She was addicted to cocaine at the time and assisted her partner by connecting buyers with him and allowing her home to be used for dealing. She was already subject to a suspended sentence and a drug rehabilitation programme.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Ryan Sarsfield

Supply of Heroin and Cocaine

July 25, 2025

Sentence: Four-and-a-half years imprisonment

Ryan Sarsfield took over the 'Pounds' drug line, which supplied heroin and cocaine, after the original operators were arrested. He operated the line from his girlfriend Amy Jeffreys' house in Townhill, Swansea. Police investigations revealed the line's continued activity through cell site analysis, leading to his arrest on March 13 when officers found 62g of heroin, phones, £1,480 in cash, and weighing scales at the property. He has a history of similar offences, including a prior sentence for drug supply and involvement in the Mayhill riot in 2022.

Pleaded guilty to possession of heroin with intent to supply, being concerned in the supply of heroin and cocaine, and possession of criminal property. Has 18 previous convictions, including for drug supply and participation in the Mayhill riot. The judge noted his determination to change and hoped he would use his time in prison to do so.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Ian William Rimmer

Breaching a sexual harm prevention order

July 24, 2025

Sentence: 22 months imprisonment

Ian Rimmer breached his indefinite sexual harm prevention order by failing to disclose a Samsung Galaxy phone during a police check and deleting 33 videos and 289 images, some with file names related to children's television programmes. The deletions occurred in February 2025, despite his claims of not seeing the phone since Christmas. He has a long history of offences involving child sex abuse images, including prior convictions in 2008, 2010, 2018, and 2023.

Pleaded guilty to breaching a sexual harm prevention order. Has a history of similar offences and previous convictions. Judge noted he gave a fabricated account to police and was fearful of returning to custody.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Kiron Chand

Failing to comply with sex offender notification requirements

July 24, 2025

Sentence: 16 months imprisonment suspended for 18 months, 200 hours of unpaid work, and a rehabilitation course

Kiron Chand, a registered sex offender due to a 2009 rape conviction, failed to notify police about obtaining a passport in 2017, opening two bank accounts with Monzo and Revolut, and traveling to India in February using an alias. He also previously denied owning a passport when questioned about travel to France in 2018. This involved breaching his sex offender notification requirements, which mandate advance notice of overseas travel and disclosure of passports and bank accounts.

Pleaded guilty to three counts of failing to comply with notification requirements. Judge described him as a 'deceitful and dishonest man' and noted his history of breaching court orders. Has 13 previous convictions.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gavin Wellington

Being concerned in the supply of cocaine

July 15, 2025

Sentence: 5 years and 3 months imprisonment

Gavin Wellington, aged 35, of Garnswllt Road, Pontarddulais, was identified through information from Williams' phone. A search of his property found empty cocaine packaging with a BMW logo, consistent with two one-kilo blocks of cocaine, hidden in a walk-in wardrobe. He was involved in supplying cocaine as part of the trio's sophisticated and lucrative operation, storing the drugs.

Pleaded guilty to being concerned in the supply of cocaine. No previous convictions. Stored the joint stash of drugs for the operation. Life changed after death of close friend 18 months prior, leading to depression, gambling, and drug use. Judge described the operation as sophisticated and lucrative.

Sources: dailypost.co.uk

Gemma Harries

Being concerned in the supply of cocaine

July 15, 2025

Sentence: 4 years and 4 months imprisonment

Gemma Harries, aged 35, of Pontiago Road, Pontarddulais, is the girlfriend of Gavin Wellington. Following the search of Wellington's property, police searched hers and recovered small quantities of cocaine and cannabis, plus an envelope with £455 in cash. Messages on her phone showed involvement in drug supply with the co-defendants and to her own customers; a tick list of debts owed was updated the day before her arrest. She was part of the sophisticated operation supplying class A drugs.

Pleaded guilty to being concerned in the supply of cocaine, possession of cocaine, and possession of cannabis. No previous convictions. Recreational drug use led to addiction and debts; has two teenage daughters unaware of her court appearance. Supplied drugs both with co-defendants and independently. Judge noted the operation's impact on families.

Sources: dailypost.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

Aled Williams

Being concerned in the supply of cocaine

July 15, 2025

Sentence: 5 years and 7 months imprisonment

Aled Williams, aged 29, of Pontiago Road, Pontarddulais, was arrested on suspicion of theft on July 15, 2025, and found carrying £1,360 in cash. Examination of his phone revealed numerous messages relating to the supply of cocaine in quantities from one gram up to several ounces from the start of the year. A search of his property uncovered another £360 in cash and a quantity of cannabis. He was the highest in the hierarchy among the three defendants, involved in a sophisticated operation supplying class A drugs.

Pleaded guilty to being concerned in the supply of cocaine and cannabis. No previous convictions. Involved in supplying large quantities of class A drugs as part of a sophisticated and lucrative operation. Judge noted they knew they faced a long prison sentence if caught and had not given their families a thought.

Sources: dailypost.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 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.

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

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

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