Cynwyd Jones, 23, attended the Princess of Wales Hospital in Bridgend on March 26 with stab wounds to his hand but was reluctant to tell medical staff how he received the injuries. Police subsequently searched his home in Blaengwynfi, Afan Valley, and discovered a significant quantity of drugs and paraphernalia.
Drug haul discovered
Officers recovered 50 kilograms of herbal cannabis in black holdalls and boxes, five kilograms of cannabis resin, boxes of cannabis vapes, weighing scales, phones, and £7,200 in cash. Two gas-powered guns were also found under a bed, along with a collection of Pokemon cards. The total value of the cannabis was estimated at £250,000.
Prosecutor David Singh told Swansea Crown Court that an examination of Jones' phones revealed messages related to the supply of various cannabis strains, vapes, and edibles. Singh said that while Jones was involved in dealing significant quantities, the amount recovered suggested he may have been storing drugs for others. He added that Jones' reluctance to report the stabbing likely indicated a connection to the drug trade.
Background and sentencing
Jones, formerly of Mary Street, Blaengwynfi, but now of Cymmer Road, Caerau, pleaded guilty to supplying cannabis and possession with intent to supply. He had no previous convictions. Ryan Bowen, defending, said the four months Jones had spent on remand were a "sobering experience" and that Jones "bitterly regrets" his actions.
Recorder Robin Rouch noted that Jones' "caginess" about the stabbing was part of the background to the discovery, and he was satisfied that Jones had been storing drugs for others under some degree of pressure. With discounts for his guilty pleas, Jones was sentenced to 22 months in prison suspended for 24 months. He must complete a rehabilitation course, 100 hours of unpaid work, and wear a GPS tag for six months. A proceeds of crime investigation will follow.
