Police officers attempted to assist an intoxicated man who couldn’t remember where he lived but ended up escalating the situation further, a court has revealed. Anthony Hewitt, aged 21, who was heavily under the influence, started a fire in the back of a police van as officers drove him around in an effort to help him identify the flats where he lived. Following his arrest for arson, Hewitt proceeded to spit at a police officer in an aggressive manner.
In Swansea Crown Court, it was disclosed that Hewitt had a history of 26 previous offences, including arson, assaults, and criminal damage. Despite this troubling background, his advocate informed the court that Hewitt had since established a new relationship, become a father, and found some stability in his life. Expressing remorse for his past behaviour, Hewitt’s advocate stated that he wanted to apologise for his actions over the years.
The chain of events unfolded on November 10 last year when Hewitt, in an inebriated state after consuming a large amount of whiskey, was spotted running into traffic in the St Thomas area of Swansea. Concerned citizens alerted the police, who found Hewitt and ensured his safety. Due to his extreme intoxication, Hewitt couldn’t provide his address, prompting the officers to attempt to locate his residence in Penlan by driving around the flats in the area.
During the drive, Hewitt became hostile and set fire to latex gloves in the van using a cigarette lighter, causing the vehicle to fill with smoke. The officers swiftly detained Hewitt after stopping the van. Following this incident, Hewitt was taken to Swansea Central police station where he spat at an officer as he was being placed in a cell. Hewitt, of Jeffrey’s Court, Penlan, Swansea, had previously admitted to arson and was convicted of assaulting an emergency worker during the court hearing.
In his defence, Andrew Evans cited a detailed pre-sentence report outlining Hewitt’s adverse childhood experiences and resulting trauma that led him to alcohol and substance abuse. The court was informed that Hewitt had found stability in his life following the incident in November, forming a new relationship and becoming a father. Recorder Aidan Eardley KC sentenced Hewitt to an 18-month community order, including participation in a rehabilitation course and 130 hours of unpaid work.
The court’s decision aimed at addressing Hewitt’s issues and fostering his rehabilitation, considering his background and circumstances. Hewitt’s acknowledgment of his wrongdoing and efforts towards positive change were noted during the sentencing.