A man described by probation services as ‘very vulnerable’ has been given an eight-week suspended prison sentence after admitting a charge of criminal damage before Llanelli magistrates.

Ryan Evans, 19, whose address was given as ‘sofa surfing’ between Ammanford, Llanelli and Carmarthen pleaded guilty to an additional charge of affray following an incident at The Wallich hostel in Llanelli.

Both offences took place on December 12, 2021 following a disagreement with a man who had been accompanying Evans thoughout the evening.

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During the affray damage was caused to a fish tank, a ceiling light and light bulb, office chairs, Christmas decorations and a fridge door.

Magistrates requested a short adjournment enabling a pre-sentence report to be prepared by the probation service.

“This is a very vulnerable man who has a lot of mental health issues,” said Probation Officer Mr David Pearson.

“He got into an argument with his associate, comments were made to the staff and the defendant pulled out a kitchen knife and put it to his own throat.

"It was all a bit of a mess. He needs helps as there’s a lot of stuff going on in his head. And he’s asking for help to make some important changes in his life.”

Ryan Evans’ eight-week prison sentence was suspended for 12 months. He was ordered to pay £72 compensation to the Wallich, a £128 surcharge and £85 costs.