Pembrokeshire chef found ‘howling and out of control’

A PEMBROKESHIRE chef has appeared before magistrates after being found ‘ howling and out of control’ in the pub in which he was employed.

Members of the public became aware of Dean McCartney’s condition when they were present in the premises on December 20,2022.

“The defendant was working as a chef in a pub in Penally when witnesses heard howling noises coming from downstairs,” Crown Prosecutor Abigail Jackson told Haverfordwest magistrates this week.

“Another male was trying to retain him as the defendant was throwing his arms and legs around and he was clearly under the influence of drugs. He was out of control and didn’t know what he was doing.”

Officers were called to the premises, and during a search of McCartney’s backpack they discovered a white powder. Subsequently analyses of the powder’s content confirmed that it was ketamine, which is an illegal Class B drug.

McCartney, 28, of Newell Hill, Tenby, pleaded guilty to a charge of possession when he was brought before magistrates this week. Ms Jackson confirmed that the offence took place while McCartney was serving a suspended sentence.

“The obvious question here is why on earth it’s taken so long to come to court,” stated his solicitor, Mr Michael Kelleher.

“My client is a qualified chef and, as a result of another drug conviction in December 2023 for possession of cocaine, is now being drug tested on a regular basis.

“Bear in mind just how long this has been hanging over his head. This should have been addressed a long, long time ago.”

Mr Kelleher added that McCartney is currently unemployed, however he attended a work trial last week.

“Unfortunately he fell down the stairs, so is now unable to start working there,” he said.

Dean McCartney was fined £ 80 for possession of the class B drug and £ 40 for breaching the suspended sentence. He was ordered to pay £ 85 costs and a £ 48 surcharge. A forfeiture and destruction order was imposed for the drugs.