Two Women Face Crown Court Over Armed Robbery Attempt at Milford Haven Shop

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Two Milford Haven women have now been sent to the Crown Court following an alleged attempted robbery at a local convenience store involving a kitchen knife. One has been remanded into custody while the other was granted conditional bail.

Bethan John, 25, and Jessie Thompson, 30, from Milford Haven, have beencharged with attempted robbery and possession of a bladed article in a public place. 

Neither woman entered a plea at this stage. The case has now been passed to Swansea Crown Court for a plea and trial preparation hearing, which is set to take place on Friday, August 15.

Jessie Thompson was remanded in custody following concerns that if released, she could pose a risk to the public or interfere with witnesses. The court also heard that she is already subject to a prison recall, which influenced the decision to detain her.

Bethan John, however, was granted bail under strict conditions. She must not go near the Pill Corner Store or contact witnesses, including Thompson. In addition, she has been ordered to report to Haverfordwest Police Station every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday between 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. to ensure compliance.

The court emphasised the seriousness of the charges and warned that any breach of bail conditions could lead to immediate detention.

The accusations stem from an incident that occurred on the evening of Friday, July 11, when two masked women allegedly entered Pill Corner Store on Pill Lane, threatened a member of staff, and demanded cash.

John and Thompson appeared before magistrates in Haverfordwest on Monday, July 14. 

The court was told that a kitchen knife was used during the attempted robbery. The staff member involved, identified as Mr M Ajan, was not physically harmed, and the suspects reportedly left the scene without obtaining any money. The swift response from local officers allowed an investigation to be opened within hours of the report.

Rising Crime

This marks the third robbery-related incident at the same shop in just two months. In May, a man threatened workers with a Stanley knife before fleeing with cash. Then, in June, another man reportedly used physical force to steal a bottle of vodka. The repeat nature of these offences has shaken staff and local residents.

Dyfed-Powys Police (DPP), which covers Pembrokeshire and surrounding counties, has urged anyone with information about any of the recent incidents to come forward. In a statement, a spokesperson said, “We are grateful for the support from the community and encourage anyone who saw anything suspicious on the evening of July 11 to contact us.”

Local business owners have voiced their frustrations, pointing out that the area has seen a worrying increase in violent behaviour, particularly in the evenings. Many call for a stronger policing presence and quicker responses to ensure public safety.