A MAN who had recently been released from prison turned to alcohol and crime after discovering his long-term partner had died while he was in custody, a court has heard.
Scott Cowdery’s solicitor told Haverfordwest magistrates this week that the news of his partner’s death caused him to “go off the rails” shortly after his release.
“Rather than focus on his rehabilitation, he went off the rails,” said his solicitor, Tom Lloyd. “He became extremely upset and turned to alcohol.”
On January 5, Cowdery entered Tesco in Pembroke Dock and was seen removing items worth £295.75. When challenged by a member of staff, he responded aggressively, shouting: “F*** off, I’ll smash your face in.”
Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan confirmed the incident and said Cowdery had made no attempt to pay for the items before making threats to the store worker.
Mr Lloyd told the court his client has no recollection of the event.
“He was drinking very, very heavily at the time,” he said. “But there is a good side to him — he’s a good son and has a very supportive family around him.”
Following the theft, Cowdery was recalled to prison for an unrelated matter and will remain in custody until September 26.
“Since then, he’s been undergoing counselling and attending numerous courses,” added Mr Lloyd. “He’s making every effort to improve.”
Cowdery was ordered to pay £295.75 in compensation, along with an £80 fine, £85 in court costs and a £32 surcharge.
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