Swansea Crown Court Sentencing Results

Explore 329 verdicts at Swansea Crown Court (Swansea). Updated with the latest court outcomes.

Nerys Lloyd

Gross Negligence Manslaughter

December 29, 2025

Sentence: 10 years and 6 months imprisonment

Former police officer Nerys Lloyd organised a stand-up paddleboarding tour on the River Cleddau in Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire, in October 2021, despite extremely hazardous conditions, failing to warn about a weir. Four participants—Paul O'Dwyer, 42, Andrea Powell, 41, Morgan Rogers, 24, and Nicola Wheatley, 40—drowned after being swept over and trapped.

Pleaded guilty to four counts of gross negligence manslaughter and one under Health and Safety at Work Act. Organised tour despite hazardous conditions and weather warnings.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Macauley Ruddock

Murder

December 29, 2025

Sentence: life imprisonment with minimum 13 years and 176 days

Jason Dix and Macauley Ruddock murdered festival worker Andrew Main, 33, outside a Swansea city centre hotel on July 17, 2024, by repeatedly punching him in the head while he lay unconscious on the pavement, causing catastrophic brain injuries and death four weeks later. The assault followed an alcohol and cocaine-fueled altercation at a bar.

Convicted of murder after trial. Claimed self-defence but found guilty of two-on-one assault.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Richard Jones

Murder

December 29, 2025

Sentence: life imprisonment with minimum 20 years

Richard Jones murdered his son's girlfriend Sophie Evans, 30, in her home in Bigyn Road, Llanelli, on July 5, 2024, by subjecting her to a sustained and brutal beating before strangling her to death. He placed keys on her naked body and casually continued his day, later admitting to 'erasing' the problem to his ex-partner.

Claimed not to remember the events. Maintained innocence during trial at Swansea Crown Court.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Patrick Mcginn

Affray and Unlawful Wounding

December 29, 2025

Sentence: 51 months imprisonment

On February 10, 2024, at 4.25am outside the NCP car park in The Kingsway, Swansea, Patrick McGinn and Olivia Lewis attacked a lone male by punching and kicking him to the head and stamping on his groin. On May 24, 2025, while on bail, McGinn assaulted another man at a flat in Matthew Street, Dyfatty, Swansea, by delivering heavy blows to the head with an object after smoking crack cocaine together, leaving the victim bleeding heavily and fleeing the scene.

Pleaded guilty to affray (13 months) and unlawful wounding (38 months, consecutive). 42 previous convictions for 90 offences. Will serve up to half in custody before release on licence. Judge described the affray as a disgraceful incident and noted the subsequent serious assault with a weapon.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Olivia Lewis

Affray

December 29, 2025

Sentence: 9 months imprisonment suspended for 18 months, 180 hours unpaid work, rehabilitation course, mental health treatment requirement

On February 10, 2024, at 4.25am outside the NCP car park in The Kingsway, Swansea city centre, Olivia Lewis and Patrick McGinn attacked a lone male. Lewis pushed the victim to the ground, then joined McGinn in punching and kicking him to the head and stamping on his groin multiple times before walking away. The victim was taken to Morriston Hospital for a check-up but declined to provide details of injuries.

Pleaded guilty to affray. No previous convictions. Judge noted her actions should be to her eternal shame and she came close to immediate custody.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Christopher Cooper

Murder

December 29, 2025

Sentence: life imprisonment with minimum 16 years

Christopher Cooper murdered Kelvin Evans, 64, outside The Station Hotel in Gorseinon on May 26, 2024, by delivering a single powerful blow from behind, sending him crashing to the floor and causing grave injuries leading to death a month later. Cooper boasted about the punch and fled the scene with his partner.

Convicted of murder after denying it and claiming self-defence. Shouted abuse at judge during sentencing. Partner Tracy Francis convicted separately of assisting an offender.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Daniel Russell Niewiadomski

Robbery

December 26, 2025

Sentence: 45 months imprisonment

On October 16, 2025, Daniel Russell Niewiadomski entered the Nisa shop at the Texaco garage on Llangyfelach Road in Treboeth, Swansea, and began concealing food and drink items worth less than £15 inside his jacket. His accomplice held the door open. When challenged by the shopkeeper, Niewiadomski brandished a wine bottle, claimed to have a knife, took the shopkeeper to the floor, and struck him several times in the face. He threatened to return and kill the employee before fleeing. Police arrested him the next day hiding in an attic in Port Tennant, where he refused to descend until finishing smoking his crack pipe. He was also carrying a knife.

Pleaded guilty to robbery and two unrelated counts of shoplifting. Offending committed to fund drug habit. Previous convictions for shoplifting, perverting the course of justice, handling stolen goods, heroin dealing, dangerous driving, and burglaries. Last conviction in March 2025 for eight shoplifting offences resulting in six months imprisonment. Eligible for release after serving half the sentence on licence.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Kaelum Lane

Dangerous driving and possession of cocaine, cannabis and ketamine with intent to supply

December 26, 2025

Sentence: 5 years imprisonment

On April 6, 2025, Kaelum Lane, aged 27, lost control of his Seat Leon car while speeding on the A4242 old Neath Valley road, crashing off the road between horse riders and cyclists, ending up on its roof after hitting an embankment and wall. He tested positive for cocaine roadside but refused a blood sample at Morriston Hospital. Tyres were below legal tread limit. Later, in November 2025, during a Swansea Bay drug dealing investigation, police searched his home in Clyne, Neath Valley, finding white powder and pink tablets on him, and £85 cash. At his rented unit in SA1 Business Park, Swansea, they found 192 ecstasy pills, 270g ketamine, 121g cocaine, cannabis, packaging, and a black metal handgun. Phone messages showed significant involvement in drug supply, including a video of cocaine he called 'my work'. He claimed no knowledge of unit contents and was prescribed cannabis.

Pleaded guilty. One-third discount applied. Comprising 1 year for dangerous driving and 4 years for drug offences, to run consecutively. Disqualified from driving for 4.5 years and must pass extended test. Has 26 previous convictions including eight for driving while disqualified.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Samantha Turner

Shoplifting

December 26, 2025

Sentence: 7 months imprisonment

On October 16, 2025, Samantha Turner assisted in a robbery at the Nisa shop at the Texaco garage on Llangyfelach Road in Treboeth, Swansea, by holding the door open while her accomplice stole items and assaulted the shopkeeper. The following day, she was arrested on a street in the Manselton area of Swansea and found carrying a knife with a retractable blade.

Pleaded guilty to possession of a knife and shoplifting. Previous convictions for simple possession of drugs and shoplifting. Engaging with drug rehabilitation agencies and hopes to find work in customer services upon release. Eligible for release after serving half the sentence on licence.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Ryan Naaif

Possession of cannabis with intent to supply

December 24, 2025

Sentence: 18 months detention suspended for 2 years

On February 15, 2024, Ryan Naaif was a rear passenger in the Ford Fiesta during a cannabis dealing operation from a safehouse on St Helen's Avenue in Swansea. Three men in balaclavas loaded boxes and a laundry bag into the car. Police stopped the car an hour later on Walter Road, where Naaif was found with a quantity of cannabis. Total 158g cannabis recovered from the scene.

Pleaded guilty. Previous conviction for possession of cannabis with intent to supply. Ordered to complete rehabilitation course and unpaid work. Has distanced himself from criminal peers.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Leon Ley

Breaches of serious crime prevention order

December 24, 2025

Sentence: 8 months imprisonment

Leon Ley, a former grave digger turned drug dealer and member of an organised crime group, was involved in trafficking hundreds of thousands of pounds worth of cocaine from London to south Wales. The conspiracy was uncovered after a targeted robbery of a van at traffic lights in Swansea, which had just delivered three kilos of cocaine and collected £100,000 in payment. Police disrupted the £2m operation in 2021, leading to Ley's initial sentencing. After release on licence, he breached his serious crime prevention order by not residing at the declared Swansea address, driving a Ford Tourneo van leased by his grandmother and a VW T-Roc Motability vehicle without declaration, and having a banking app on his phone in his partner's name for day-to-day use. He was arrested, gave a prepared statement admitting the breaches, and answered no comment to questions.

Pleaded guilty to four breaches of a serious crime prevention order. Breaches included not living at declared address, driving undeclared vehicles, and possessing a bank card not in his own name. Recalled to prison until December 2031 to serve remainder of 2021 drug-dealing sentence. Defence stated breaches not in furtherance of criminality but admitted being cavalier at times.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Joseph Dix

Murder

December 24, 2025

Sentence: Life imprisonment with minimum term of 13 years and 176 days

On July 16, 2024, in Swansea, Joseph Dix and Macauley Ruddock, after drinking alcohol and taking cocaine, engaged in a confrontation outside the Travelodge hotel in Princess Way following a chance meeting with Andrew Main in Coyote Ugly bar. The fight escalated into a two-on-one assault, knocking Main unconscious and repeatedly punching him in the head, causing catastrophic brain injuries. Main died in hospital four weeks later without regaining consciousness.

Convicted of murder following a two-week trial. Denied charge claiming self-defence.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Maddox Vaughan

Possession of cannabis with intent to supply

December 24, 2025

Sentence: 9 months imprisonment suspended for 12 months

On February 15, 2024, Maddox Vaughan drove the Ford Fiesta getaway car in a cannabis dealing operation from a safehouse on St Helen's Avenue in Swansea. Three men in balaclavas loaded boxes and a laundry bag into the car before speeding off. Police boxed in the car an hour later on Walter Road. Vaughan claimed he was just giving mates a lift. Additional cannabis found in the car.

Pleaded guilty. Previous conviction for drug-driving. Ordered to complete rehabilitation course and unpaid work. Now employed in vehicle repair.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Harrison Davies

Possession of cannabis with intent to supply

December 24, 2025

Sentence: 9 months imprisonment suspended for 12 months

On February 15, 2024, Harrison Davies was a rear passenger in the Ford Fiesta during a cannabis dealing operation from a safehouse on St Helen's Avenue in Swansea. Three men in balaclavas loaded boxes and a laundry bag into the car. Police stopped the car an hour later on Walter Road, where Davies was found with a black balaclava and gloves. Additional cannabis found in the car and nearby. Total 158g cannabis recovered.

Pleaded guilty. No previous convictions. Ordered to complete rehabilitation course, unpaid work, and mental health treatment requirement. Expressed remorse.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Harvey Young

Possession of cannabis with intent to supply

December 24, 2025

Sentence: 2 years detention suspended for 2 years

On February 15, 2024, Harvey Young was involved in a cannabis dealing operation using a safehouse on St Helen's Avenue in Swansea. Three men in balaclavas, including Young, entered the property, loaded boxes and a laundry bag into a Ford Fiesta getaway car, and sped off. Police stopped the car an hour later on Walter Road. Young disposed of a bag containing two kitchen knives and a meat cleaver, was found with £655 cash and cannabis. Messages on his phone related to drug supply. Total 158g cannabis recovered. He was on licence from a prior 18-month sentence.

Pleaded guilty. Previous convictions for supply of cannabis and crack cocaine. Ordered to complete rehabilitation course and unpaid work.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Robert Oakley

Making threats to kill

December 22, 2025

Sentence: 2 years imprisonment

On the evening of December 2, 2025, Robert Oakley was drinking at the Carwyn James pub in Llanelli, Carmarthenshire, for over two hours. He became excitable, loud, and very aggressive. He threatened to kill a man by asking 'Do you want to die?' and pushed him, throwing him onto a seated area. He then got on top of the complainant, held a screw between his knuckles, and threatened to stab him. He also threatened to kill a woman. He damaged a door at the pub and, after evading police by jumping out of a window, urinated in a police vehicle while being transported to Glangwili Hospital after admitting to taking substances. He threatened to defecate in the vehicle, leading to re-arrest.

Pleaded guilty to all offences. Will serve half the term in custody, remainder on licence. Judge commented that his behaviour was 'nothing short of disgraceful'. Mitigation noted recent loss of father and struggles with alcohol during personal issues.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Uwen Watts

Exposure and sending a grossly offensive communication

December 22, 2025

Sentence: 29 weeks imprisonment

Uwen Watts, aged 20, of Coombs Drive, Milford Haven, committed the offences on the same day in February 2025. He exposed his genitals to a vulnerable woman by being naked from the waist down and sent her a grossly offensive message along with links to pornographic material. He attempted to seduce her sexually.

Pleaded guilty to exposure and sending a grossly offensive communication. Judge Huw Rees described the offences as disgusting and stated the defendant should be hanging his head in shame. The victim was vulnerable, and the offending caused a deep if not long-lasting effect. Defence mitigation noted Valium use on the day. Subject to Sex Offenders Register notification requirements for 10 years.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Thomas Michael Jim James

Engaging in fraudulent trading

December 20, 2025

Sentence: 8 years imprisonment

Thomas Michael Jim James and his father targeted elderly and vulnerable homeowners across south and west Wales over five-and-a-half years, scamming them out of almost half-a-million pounds through fraudulent roofing jobs. They provided quotes for minor work but then claimed to find major issues, demanding escalating payments. They used aggressive tactics, including threats of a 'gypsy war', stripped roofs without permission, left properties exposed, and performed shoddy, unnecessary work that required costly repairs. Victims, many in their 60s, 70s, and 80s, suffered financial ruin, debt, and emotional distress; one lost £100,000 and faced bankruptcy.

Pleaded guilty to engaging in fraudulent trading. Aged 37, from Llangadog, Carmarthenshire. No previous convictions. Grew up in traveller community, left school at eight, father-of-two. Judge noted cruel callousness and ruthless manipulation of victims. Will serve 40% in custody before release on licence. Defence claimed he was not the leader.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Nicholas O'connor

Sexual offences

December 20, 2025

Sentence: 2 years imprisonment

Nicholas O'Connor, ex-chairman of Swansea's Plough Colts FC, was sentenced for offences making him a 'sexual nuisance to women'. Specific details of the crimes were not provided in the article.

Judge told him he was a 'self-centred individual'. Former chairman of Swansea's Plough Colts FC, labelled 'sexual nuisance to women'.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Luke Hutton

Possession of cocaine with intent to supply

December 20, 2025

Sentence: 3 years imprisonment

Luke Hutton, aged 25, of Corporation Street, Aberystwyth, began peddling cocaine after his benefits were stopped to make ends meet. On November 14, 2025, police executed a search warrant at a flat in Aberystwyth where he was seen with Lee Walsh. He attempted to flee but was caught and searched, revealing £8,795 in cash and a mobile phone. A strip search found a wrap of white powder in his groin area. A search of his address uncovered £1,060 in cash, bicarbonate of soda, and empty snap-seal bags. He was involved in dealing cocaine with the expectation of significant financial gain.

Pleaded guilty. One-third discount applied. Judge noted his comments about doing what he had to do after benefits stopped, stating the court would take drug dealers off the streets. Has prior convictions including sending offensive communications, driving matters, domestic violence, and breaching a restraining order. Cocaine addiction had ruled his life, leading to separation from his two young children.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Lee Mark Walsh

Possession of cocaine with intent to supply

December 20, 2025

Sentence: 32 months imprisonment

Lee Mark Walsh, aged 37, of Yr Hafan, Aberystwyth, originally from Cardiff, was involved in peddling cocaine in Aberystwyth, spreading misery in the Welsh seaside town. On November 14, 2025, police executed a search warrant at his flat in Aberystwyth. He was detained at the property and searched, revealing a small bag of cannabis, £160 in cash, and a mobile phone. A search of his bedroom found £850 in cash, a silver knuckleduster, five mobile phones, and a large kitchen knife under the bed. Elsewhere in the flat, officers recovered a bag of white powder, scales with residue, and a bank card with white powder. He was involved in dealing cocaine with the expectation of significant financial gain.

Pleaded guilty. One-third discount applied. Has prior convictions for possession of cannabis (2007) and failing to comply with a drug test (June 2025). Experienced a traumatic childhood, attended 14 schools, has a commendable work ethic, completed a barbering course, and plans to pursue that upon release. Cannabis use linked to formative years.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Jim Janes

Engaging in fraudulent trading

December 20, 2025

Sentence: 8 years imprisonment

Jim Janes and his son targeted elderly and vulnerable homeowners across south and west Wales over five-and-a-half years, scamming them out of almost half-a-million pounds through fraudulent roofing jobs. They provided quotes for minor work but then claimed to find major issues, demanding escalating payments. They used aggressive tactics, including threats of a 'gypsy war', stripped roofs without permission, left properties exposed, and performed shoddy, unnecessary work that required costly repairs. Victims, many in their 60s, 70s, and 80s, suffered financial ruin, debt, and emotional distress; one lost £100,000 and faced bankruptcy.

Pleaded guilty to engaging in fraudulent trading. Aged 55, from Llangadog, Carmarthenshire. Two previous convictions described as antiquated and dissimilar. Judge noted cruel callousness and ruthless manipulation of victims. Will serve 40% in custody before release on licence.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Lee Hanbury

Attempted Burglary

December 19, 2025

Sentence: 2 years and 8 months imprisonment

On the night of August 7-8, 2025, Lee Hanbury, of Menai Avenue in Neath Port Talbot, accompanied Daniel Ellis from Tudor Court Hotel in Swansea to target residential properties in the north of the city. CCTV and Ring doorbell footage on Danygraig Road showed Hanbury keeping lookout while Ellis attempted to enter properties, with Hanbury wearing gloves, both with hoods up, and Hanbury gesturing to alert Ellis to CCTV cameras. They attempted two properties but failed to enter as doors were locked. Hanbury did not participate in the successful burglary on a nearby road.

Pleaded guilty to attempted burglary. Accompanied Daniel Ellis on the spree. Has a history of 15 residential burglaries. Lost his mum at age 10 and brother at age 14 in a car accident, suffered depression and anxiety, turned to drugs including heroin addiction by age 16. Judge Geraint Walters described his record as dreadful.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Michelle Mills

Conspiracy to murder

December 19, 2025

Sentence: 19 years imprisonment

Michelle Mills, 46, of Llangennech, Llanelli, plotted with her lover Geraint Berry to murder her husband Christopher Mills at their static caravan near Newcastle Emlyn, Carmarthenshire, on September 20, 2024. Berry recruited Steven Thomas to assist. The attackers, masked and armed with imitation handguns, gas masks, pliers, and cable ties, assaulted Mr Mills, but he fought them off. Mills called 999 claiming she did not know the attackers. Text messages between Mills and Berry evidenced the chilling plot, which Mills deleted to cover her tracks.

Also given 18 months concurrently for perverting the course of justice. Encouraged Geraint Berry to execute the plan to murder her husband.

Sources: dailypost.co.uk

Geraint Berry

Conspiracy to murder

December 19, 2025

Sentence: 19 years imprisonment

Geraint Berry, 47, of Clydach, Swansea, plotted with Michelle Mills to murder her husband Christopher Mills so they could continue their affair. On September 20, 2024, Berry and recruited accomplice Steven Thomas attacked Mr Mills at his static caravan near Newcastle Emlyn, Carmarthenshire. Masked and equipped with imitation handguns, gas masks, pliers, and cable ties, they intended to kill him and stage it as suicide, but Mr Mills fought them off. Text messages revealed the plan's details.

Also given 18 months concurrently for possession of an imitation firearm, which he previously admitted. Devised the plan and led its execution while intoxicated, recruiting Steven Thomas to assist.

Sources: dailypost.co.uk

Ethel Michelle Mills

Conspiracy to murder

December 19, 2025

Sentence: 19 years imprisonment

Ethel Michelle Mills, 46, known as Michelle, of Maes Ty Gwyn, Llangennech, Llanelli, had an affair with Geraint Berry and conspired to murder her husband Christopher Mills to be together. They discussed options like poisoning his food or hiring a hitman, ultimately planning to stage his suicide using gas in their caravan near Newcastle Emlyn. In September 2024, Berry and Steven Thomas attempted the attack, but Mr Mills fought them off. Mills lied to police about not knowing the intruders and deleted messages, but evidence from Berry's phone exposed the plot. She has PTSD and anxiety.

Convicted of conspiracy to murder and perverting the course of justice (18 months concurrent for false statements to police). Insisted plot was fantasy; shown no remorse or insight, portrayed herself as victim, manipulative behaviour noted.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Daniel Ellis

Burglary

December 19, 2025

Sentence: 3 years imprisonment

On the night of August 7-8, 2025, Daniel Ellis, 34, of Oystermouth Road in Swansea, and Lee Hanbury left Tudor Court Hotel in Swansea and targeted residential properties in the north of the city. CCTV and Ring doorbell footage captured them attempting to enter properties on Danygraig Road, with Ellis trying front doors while Hanbury kept lookout, both wearing hoods and Hanbury using gloves. They failed to enter those properties but Ellis committed a burglary at a nearby property, stealing a set of car keys, a Citroen C1 vehicle, and a wallet from a table near the front door while occupants were home. The vehicle was later found burnt out with altered registration. A card from the wallet was used at a local shop by Lee Harry, who was dealt with separately.

Pleaded guilty to burglary, two counts of attempted burglary and aggravated vehicle taking. Judge Geraint Walters described his criminal record as the worst he has ever seen for dwelling house burglaries. Has accepted full responsibility, is remorseful, drugs free, and committed to his partner and two children.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Adrian Simcox

Assaulting emergency workers

December 19, 2025

Sentence: two year community order with rehabilitation activity requirement

Adrian Simcox, 41, of Gellidawel Road, Rhydyfelin, attended his neighbour's home in Rhydyfelin, Pontypridd, at 8.39am on June 9, 2025, giving her flowers and sheets of paper. He rambled, sat on the sofa, claimed she had millions of pounds, and asked for a hug, terrifying her. She cried, tried to leave, but he placed his hand on her shoulder. She flagged down a passing driver to escape. Police arrived; Simcox claimed to be a fraud victim, became violent, threw an officer to the floor dislocating his shoulder, bit two officers, removed taser probes, and disclosed he was HIV positive and under the influence of crystal meth. Later at hospital, he was aggressive, squeezed an officer's arm, and in the police van kicked and headbutted the cage.

Pleaded guilty to assaulting emergency workers, assault by beating and possession of a class A drug. Of previous good character. Exhibited psychiatric symptoms and bizarre reaction. HIV positive but condition untraceable and untransmittable. Already spent six months in custody.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Steven Derwyn Thomas

Possession of imitation firearm with intent to cause fear

December 19, 2025

Sentence: 12 months imprisonment

Steven Derwyn Thomas, 47, of Clos Coffa, Clydach, Swansea Valley, assisted Geraint Berry in the attack on Christopher Mills' caravan near Newcastle Emlyn in September 2024. Armed with an imitation handgun, he entered the caravan with Berry to beat up the occupant, unaware of the full murder conspiracy. Mr Mills disarmed them, and Thomas was arrested nearby. He admitted the firearm offence but denied conspiracy, claiming no knowledge of the victim's identity.

Acquitted of conspiracy to murder; pleaded guilty to possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear. Played subservient role, vulnerable individual dealing with brother's death; time on remand likely leads to imminent release.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Steven Thomas

Possession of an imitation firearm

December 19, 2025

Sentence: 12 months imprisonment

Steven Thomas, 47, of Blaengwynfi in the Afan Valley, was recruited by Geraint Berry to assist in the attack on Christopher Mills at his static caravan near Newcastle Emlyn, Carmarthenshire, on September 20, 2024. Thomas participated in the assault alongside Berry, using imitation handguns, gas masks, pliers, and cable ties, but the plan failed when Mr Mills fought them off.

For possessing an imitation firearm, which he previously pleaded guilty to. Played a subordinate role in the conspiracy to murder.

Sources: dailypost.co.uk

Carlton Richmond

Supplying unsafe and mis-described vehicles

December 18, 2025

Sentence: 8 months imprisonment suspended for 2 years, 20 rehabilitation activity requirement days, compensation to victims, £10,000 costs

Carlton Richmond, 39, of Pinewood View, Pontypridd, operated a second-hand car sales business under the false name Rob Builder, using forged documents and false addresses. He bought cars that had failed MOT tests at auction for low prices, performed no repairs, and sold them for over double the price to unsuspecting customers, claiming false maintenance. Specific cases include selling a failed MOT Toyota Rav4 to Helen Wright for £1,400 (bought for £650) in March 2022, which was unroadworthy with engine and clutch issues, and a vehicle to Jennifer Horgan for £1,385 (bought for £535) with false claims about timing belt replacement. Forged invoices used logos from researched local garages like Milverton Lanes in Swansea. Police found falsified documents during search of his property.

Pleaded guilty. Judge Geraint Walters described actions as dishonest, calculated and sophisticated. Prior convictions for driving and theft. Remorseful, health conditions noted.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Nicholas Anderson

Possession of cocaine with intent to supply

December 12, 2025

Sentence: 3 years imprisonment

Nicholas Anderson and Rebecca Welton were involved in the supply of Class A drugs. On April 17, 2025, police stopped their Range Rover in Pelcomb near Haverfordwest, finding cocaine, cash, and a burner phone. A search of their rented property near Aberystwyth revealed more cash, dealer's notebooks, mobile phones, weapons including an old revolver, and other items. Additional cash was found at Welton's parents' address in Somerset. WhatsApp messages confirmed their involvement in drug supply and related criminality.

Pleaded guilty to possession of cocaine with intent to supply. Described as the leading light in the operation. Has previous convictions for possession of cannabis, possession of offensive weapons, and threatening behaviour. Spent seven months on remand.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Michael Monks

Possessing, making, and distributing indecent images of children

December 12, 2025

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

Michael Monks, 55, of Russell Terrace, Carmarthen, collected and shared indecent images of children being sexually abused and raped via a chat group on the Wickr encrypted app. In May 2022, police executed a search warrant at his home and seized his Huawei phone, which contained 48 indecent images of children (including 25 Category A), three bestiality photos, and evidence of him swapping four images with group members. At the time, he was a leader at the Army Cadet centre in Llanelli. He initially denied sexual interest in children but later admitted it during sentencing.

Pleaded guilty. No previous convictions. Registered sex offender for 10 years. Sexual harm prevention order for 10 years. Delay in case described as unconscionable and wholly unacceptable.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Rebecca Welton

Possession of cocaine with intent to supply

December 12, 2025

Sentence: 3 years imprisonment

Nicholas Anderson and Rebecca Welton were involved in the supply of Class A drugs. On April 17, 2025, police stopped their Range Rover in Pelcomb near Haverfordwest, finding cocaine hidden by Welton, cash, and a burner phone. A search of her rented property near Aberystwyth revealed more cash, dealer's notebooks, mobile phones, weapons including an old revolver, and other items. Additional cash was found at her parents' address in Somerset. WhatsApp messages confirmed her awareness and participation in drug supply and related criminality.

Pleaded guilty to possession of cocaine with intent to supply. Described as a willing, enthusiastic participant. No previous convictions. Mother of four, influenced by her partner.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Nicholas Mitchell

Rape

December 11, 2025

Sentence: 8.5 years imprisonment

Nicholas Mitchell, aged 60 from Park Avenue, West Wickham, Bromley, London, travelled to Tenby, Pembrokeshire, with his daughters in May 2021 as Covid lockdown restrictions eased. He met the victim in a pub, took a fancy to her, and later attacked her in a dark alleyway where he sexually assaulted and raped her. He then walked off, leaving her in a distressed and dishevelled state. The incident was reported to police, leading to his identification and arrest. The case proceeded to trial in November 2025.

Convicted after trial of assault by penetration and two counts of rape. Judge described the assault as violent and callous. Defendant maintained innocence but accepted sentencing per jury verdict. One prior conviction for assaulting a police constable in October 2020. Delay of 37 months between arrest and charging noted.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Kristian Apeletey

Fraud

December 11, 2025

Sentence: 9 months imprisonment suspended for 12 months, 150 hours unpaid work, £1,000 prosecution costs

In August 2022, Kristian Apeletey fraudulently applied to renew a passport in the name of John Regan, who had died in October 2006. The application used the revoked passport and a birth certificate in Regan's name, with Apeletey's address and email. When contacted by the passport office, he replied signing as 'John'. The passport photo showed a black male, while the real John Regan was a white male born in 1961. Police found WhatsApp messages with his mother discussing the application, and seized related items from his home near Aberaeron.

Pleaded guilty. No previous convictions. Defence claimed acted on mother's request, believing John Regan was his godfather living in America. Judge expressed scepticism about the defendant's version of events and emphasised the importance of border security.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Beth Mccarthy

Conspiracy to supply cannabis

December 10, 2025

Sentence: 12-month community order, rehabilitation course, £250 fine

Beth McCarthy, aged 25, of Heol y Waun, Maesycrugiau, Carmarthenshire, acted as a courier, delivering supplies of cocaine to Aberystwyth in her Renault Clio on two occasions under instruction from Ian Biddyr.

Convicted at trial of conspiracy to supply cannabis. Mother-of-five seeking to improve as parent and role model.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Daniel Allen

Burglary

December 10, 2025

Sentence: 20 months imprisonment

On the morning of August 28, 2025, Daniel Allen smashed a window to burgle a house on Gomer Road in Townhill, Swansea, while the homeowner was away. He ransacked the property, upturned furniture, strewn clothes and possessions, and made himself at home by drinking the victim's sherry and other alcohol he brought. He stole items including a decanter and lamps of huge sentimental value left by the victim's late mother, laptops, trainers, aftershave, and jewellery. Blood at the scene led to DNA match and arrest on November 12, 2025. Victim felt personal space violated and irreplaceable items lost.

Pleaded guilty. Has 37 previous convictions for 76 offences, including 17 shoplifting offences this year. Advocate stated client is unable to cope in community and requires structured custodial environment. Sentenced in absence as defendant refused to attend. One-third discount applied for guilty plea. Will serve half in custody before release on licence.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Daniel Drabble

Conspiracy to supply cannabis

December 10, 2025

Sentence: 3 years imprisonment

Daniel Drabble, aged 38, of Y Ferwig, Cardigan, was the head of an organised crime group sourcing large quantities of cannabis from the US and Britain, directing, organising, and participating in its distribution across West Wales. The operation involved importing packages from America, one of which was intercepted in summer 2022 containing 32 packages of cannabis. Police seized phones, cash, and a one-kilo silver bar from his home, revealing messages about the operation and cryptocurrency use. He resumed dealing after initial release under investigation.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply cannabis and knowingly being concerned in the fraudulent evasion of a prohibition on the importation of cannabis. Remorseful, difficult upbringing, impact on family noted.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Ashley Williams

Money laundering

December 10, 2025

Sentence: 2 years imprisonment

Ashley Williams, aged 40, now of Llwyncelyn Avenue, Pontarddulais, Swansea, received packages of cannabis from the US and handled tens of thousands of pounds in drugs money, exchanging cash into cryptocurrency for Drabble. His involvement stemmed from vulnerability after major spinal surgery in 2019, leading to substance abuse.

Pleaded guilty to knowingly being concerned in the fraudulent evasion of a prohibition on the importation of cannabis and money laundering. Mocked police by quacking like a duck in interview; turned to drugs after spinal surgery.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Gareth Hinrichs

Conspiracy to supply cannabis

December 10, 2025

Sentence: 12 months imprisonment suspended for 12 months, 250 hours unpaid work, rehabilitation course

Gareth Hinrichs, aged 27, of Llys Hendre, Waunfawr, Aberystwyth, purchased kilos of cannabis from the gang and distributed it through his own network of street dealers and runners in Aberystwyth. His cannabis use spiralled during the Covid pandemic following his father's death as a teenager.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply cannabis. Turned to drugs after father's death; arrest was a wake-up call, now employed as pub chef and delivery driver.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Ian Biddyr

Conspiracy to supply cannabis

December 10, 2025

Sentence: 27 months imprisonment

Ian Biddyr, aged 47, of Gwbert Road, Cardigan, acted as Daniel Drabble's trusted lieutenant, storing multi-kilo quantities of cannabis and laundering £200,000 through his bank account. Police found a suitcase of cannabis worth £49,000 in his car. He was paid small amounts for using his account and occasionally acted as a courier.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply cannabis and money laundering. Former HGV driver who turned to crime during Covid after losing licence; now rehabilitated, no longer addicted to cannabis.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Jake Dighton

Robbery

December 9, 2025

Sentence: 4.5 years imprisonment

On June 14, Jake Dighton and Daniel Merriman assaulted Lee Ayre in a Llanelli park after a phone fallout with Dighton's ex-partner Alisha Thomas. Dighton joined Merriman in attacking Ayre and later used a Stella pint glass to wound friend Mr Fennel on the head, causing three superficial lacerations. On June 21, Dighton robbed Natasha Morgan in Llanelli by grabbing her bag, pushing her to the ground, and fleeing with it, ripping the strap off. The victim felt violated, paranoid, and stopped walking alone at night, losing a week's earnings.

Sentenced for affray, wounding, possession of an offensive weapon, and robbery. Concurrent sentences for possession of an offensive weapon and affray. Judge Paul Hobson noted real consequences for the robbery victim, making women insecure about going out.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Daniel Merriman

Assault occasioning actual bodily harm

December 9, 2025

Sentence: 6 months imprisonment

On June 14, Daniel Merriman and Jake Dighton assaulted Lee Ayre in a Llanelli park following a phone dispute involving Dighton's ex-partner Alisha Thomas. Merriman became aggressive, shouted at Ayre, hit and kicked him in the face and head multiple times, knocking him down, and put him in a headlock. The attack occurred between two benches in the park.

Sentenced for affray and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. To be served consecutively to current 4.5-year prison sentence. Mitigating factors included adverse childhood experiences, drug misuse, mental health issues, and significant personal loss.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Lewis Dight

Affray

December 9, 2025

Sentence: 2 years detention in a young offenders institution

On October 18, 2025, Lewis Dight borrowed a dog lead from his neighbour Jamie Glover in McRitchie Place, Gendros, Swansea. The next day, when Glover knocked to retrieve it, Dight struck him on the head with a metal pole, causing a wound. Glover armed himself with a baseball bat and returned, but retreated upon seeing Dight with a knife. Dight smashed a glass panel in the door and threw bricks at the property while threatening to stab Glover and cut his face. Police arrested Glover, who admitted involvement, and later found Dight hiding in a cubby hole under a bed on October 22. A bread knife was found under a mattress in Dight's house.

Pleaded guilty to affray, possession of an offensive weapon, and threatening with a bladed article. Has 10 previous convictions for 18 offences including inflicting grievous bodily harm, two counts of assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and harassment. Judge noted he resorts to violence and threats with weapons. One-quarter discount for guilty pleas. Will serve up to half in custody before release on licence.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Jason Scott Maddocks

Dangerous driving

December 9, 2025

Sentence: 14 months imprisonment, disqualified from driving for 3 years and 7 months

On October 1, 2024, Jason Scott Maddocks, while under the influence of cocaine (three times over the legal limit and almost nine times over for benzoylecgonine), led police on a high-speed pursuit starting in Chippenham, Wiltshire. Driving a blue Peugeot with a high-risk missing woman as passenger, he reached speeds of 50mph in 20mph zones, drove on the wrong side of the road, and joined the M4 where he exceeded 100mph on the hard shoulder and sped through Leigh Delamere services at over 60mph. The chase ended when he drove into Hullavington airfield, abandoned the vehicle, and fled on foot. Officers found cocaine in the car. The judge noted his absolute disregard for others' safety.

Pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, two counts of drug-driving, failing to stop, criminal damage, and possession of cocaine. Former Army veteran suffering from PTSD. Nine previous convictions for 21 offences. One-third discount for guilty pleas applied.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Luckman Oyofo

Rape

December 8, 2025

Sentence: 10 years imprisonment

In December 2024, Luckman Oyofo, 48, met a teenage girl in Swansea city centre and gave her a bottle of vodka. He then took her and her friend to his flat in Swansea city centre on the pretence of calling a taxi. Once there, while the friend was incapacitated by alcohol, Oyofo sexually assaulted and raped the teenager. The victim reported a tremendous impact on her life, including nightmares, anxiety, and sleep issues. Oyofo showed no remorse.

Pleaded guilty to two counts of sexual assault; convicted at trial of sexual assault and rape. No previous convictions. Will be a registered sex offender for life. Deportation matter for Home Office.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Lukman Oyofo

Rape

December 8, 2025

Sentence: 10 years imprisonment

In December 2024, Lukman Oyofo, 48, met a teenage girl in Swansea city centre and gave her a bottle of vodka. He then took her and her friend to his flat in the city centre on Princess Way under the pretence of calling a taxi. Once there, while the friend was incapacitated by alcohol, Oyofo sexually assaulted and raped the teenager. The victim reported a tremendous impact on her life, including anxiety, sleep issues, and nightmares.

Pleaded guilty to two counts of sexual assault; convicted at trial of sexual assault and rape. No previous convictions. Will be a registered sex offender for life. Deportation matter for Home Office.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Michael Mathews

Threatening with a bladed article

December 4, 2025

Sentence: 2 years imprisonment

On September 22, 2025, Michael Mathews, aged 56, of Hill Street, North Hill, Swansea, was involved in an argument or discussion with a group of people outside the Matthew Street flats in the Dyfatty area of Swansea. He produced a large carving knife, raised it above his head, and swung it at a woman who moved out of the way. The group continued talking afterwards, and Mathews tucked the knife into his trousers before walking off with them. CCTV operators alerted police, who later identified and chased him on High Street, where he discarded the knife while fleeing and was caught climbing a fence. The woman did not provide a statement and did not support the prosecution. Mathews answered 'no comment' in his police interview. He was suffering from mental health difficulties at the time and apologised to the complainant and the court.

Pleaded guilty to threatening with a bladed article. Has 14 previous convictions for 57 offences including eight of violence. Released from previous life sentence in May 2022 after serving nine years. Subject to life licence; release back into community to be determined by Parole Board. Judge noted disturbing history of violence with a knife and that this offence was a continuation of that.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Peter Rees

Wounding with intent to inflict grievous bodily harm

December 4, 2025

Sentence: 8 years custody + 4 years extended licence

Peter Rees, aged 67, committed multiple violent offences in Swansea. In March 2025, while intoxicated, he threatened a maintenance worker with a kitchen knife in his bathroom at Rose Hill Terrace, Mount Pleasant, making threats to stab and cut off the man's testicles during a struggle. He was arrested but released on bail. Later evicted, he moved in with his partner and her 81-year-old housemate in Mayhill. On July 5, 2025, after an argument, he attempted to suffocate his partner by pressing a pillow over her face. Arrested again and bailed. On August 8, 2025, while collecting belongings, he entered the living room armed with knives and stabbed the 81-year-old man twice in the chest, narrowly missing the heart, causing a collapsed lung, diaphragm damage, and internal bleeding. The victim required major surgery and hospital treatment. Rees laughed afterwards and was arrested, claiming the attack was due to a mistaken belief the victim was dating his partner.

Pleaded guilty to threatening with a bladed article in a private place, suffocation, and wounding with intent to inflict grievous bodily harm. Classified as a dangerous offender. Prior convictions for minor matters in 2004 and 2006. Mitigating factors include deteriorating mental health and alcohol abuse.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

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