A man from Llanfyrnach who stands accused of possessing an imitation firearm, driving a car which emitted dangerous clouds of smoke, driving without insurance, MOT and with incorrect registration plates is due to appear at Swansea Crown Court today (Friday).
Simon Chaplain, aged 61, was stopped in his red Peugeot 309 by police near Spittal on Sunday, January 25.
Chaplain appeared at Haverfordwest magistrates court the following day. The court heard that at points the arresting officer pursing Chaplain had had to stop his car as he could not see, so dense was the smoke coming from the vehicle.
Chaplain refused legal representation and when asked to confirm his name and address only replied “I am a man”.
When asked if he wished to enter pleas for the five charges he gave the same response, adding “I do not understand” and “I’m being forced to understand”.
Chaplain was asked a further three times during the hearing if he wanted legal representation but refused to acknowledge the question or reply coherently.
The court heard that there were “numerous charges pending” against Chaplain. These included multiple counts of burglary, criminal damage and assaulting a constable, however to date there were no convictions against him.
Magistrates remanded Chaplain in custody and committed the case to Swansea crown court. He is due to appear in Court 4 tomorrow afternoon.
