DARREN Thomas, 51, with no fixed abode was sentenced today at Swansea Crown Court today for sending electronic communication intent to cause distress or anxiety to his family, alongside two offences of criminal damage dating back to Thursday (5 Oct) of last year.
On the second day of the trial, Tuesday (22 Oct), Thomas made a last-minute change to his plea, opting to plead guilty. The court took into account his lengthy criminal history, which includes 31 prior offences and 14 previous court appearances, resulting in a total sentence of 49 weeks, with up to half the term to be served in custody.
The incident on Thursday (5 Oct) 2023, involved a phone call from Thomas to his mother, who was in Cardiff with her daughter and son-in-law. The call, initially brief, escalated, with Thomas shouting “I will burn you and kill myself”. This caused distress, promoting the son-in-law to contact the police.
Prosecutor Mr Rees outlined that a restraining order has been imposed to protect Thomas’ family. The order prevents any direct or indirect contact, including through third parties, and bars Thomas from certain locations where his family resides. This order will remain in place for five years.
In court, Thomas expressed regret stating “I shouldn’t have plead guilty, why did I do that?” He also told the judge he was concerned about his mother, Pamela Thomas, and was worried about not being able to retrieve ‘his’ dog.
Her Honour Judge Catherine Richards noted that Thomas had been in custody since Thursday (9 Nov) 2923 and had been assessed by mental health professionals, who found no treatable mental illness.
Addressing Thomas, Judge Richards said “You ultimately plead guilty at the end of the evidence. I’ve heard the evidence, so have an understanding of your offence.” she added: “There was genuine stress and your mother had fear of returning to her own home. I am satisfied that a restraining order is needed.”
