A CWMGORS man who tried to intimidate a man and a woman to stop them giving evidence against his friend has received a suspended prison sentence.

David Fisher, aged 27, first threatened them with violence and then offered them money to withdraw statements they had made to police about an incidence of violence in the village.

A woman Fisher had been “infatuated with” was later charged.

Judge Peter Heywood told Swansea crown court that Fisher became aware of who had made the statements and he sent text messages to the witnesses.

Fisher, of 38 Abernant Road, admitted witness intimidation.

He was jailed for 12 months, suspended for 18 months, and ordered to carry out 200 hours of unpaid work for the community and to pay a £900 court charge and a government surcharge.

Judge Heywood told Fisher he could count himself lucky he was not going to jail immediately.

“These offences are always viewed seriously by the courts.

“The messages made the witnesses fearful of going out and coming across you.

“Witnesses are essential to the criminal justice system which would grind to a halt without them.

“You richly deserve to go straight into prison,” added the judge.