A Pembroke Dock man has been charged with using threatening behaviour after he admitted punching a friend in the face shortly after the journey home from being released from prison.

Twenty-seven-year-old Lloyd Anthony Richard Jenkins, of St. Teilos Road, pleaded guilty to the charge when he appeared at Haverfordwest magistrates court on Tuesday.

Prosecutor Vaughan Pritchard-Jones told the court that the incident occurred on January 6, at 1.40 pm, when Mr. Jenkins and his friend had just got back to Haverfordwest bus station after being released from Swansea prison.

“Mr. Jenkins thought that his friend had stolen his cigarettes, so he punched him in the face, causing him to fall to the floor.

“The other man didn’t actually make a complaint, but there was a queue of about 20 people waiting for a bus who witnessed the incident, which had caused them distress. There was a police officer also sitting in a patrol car nearby who saw the incident.

“As a result of the incident, Mr. Jenkins was recalled to prison,” added Mr. Pritchard-Jones.

Defence solicitor Katy Hanson told the court that Mr. Jenkins realised that his behaviour was not acceptable and apologised.

“Feelings were running high, but the other man didn’t actually make a complaint.

“Mr. Jenkins was recalled to prison on January 12 and served a further week.

“He has since gained employment as a fisherman and does not wish to return to prison.

“He is a young man who has been in trouble before, but does want the chance to show that he can move forward,” continued Ms Hanson.

Magistrates fined Mr. Jenkins £105 for the offence and ordered him to pay prosecution costs of £85 and a £30 victim surcharge.