Window smasher's £25k town centre vandalism spree

A MAN walked around a town centre at dead of night smashing the doors and windows of dozens of retailers, from well-known high street chains to independent traders and charity shops.

- JASON EVANS

In total Graham Edwards caused more than £25,000 worth of damage to his victims for what was termed "mindless violence towards property".

Cardiff Crown Court heard that when Edwards was arrested he denied being responsible for the spree and claimed he had been on a "spiritual journey".

The court also heard that a psychiatrist who interviewed the defendant has concluded that the 38-year-old has the characteristics of "emotionally unstable personality disorder".

The court heard that in the early hours of February 10 this year, a man wearing a "distinctive coat" was caught on CCTV "going from premises to premises" in Cwmbran town centre, kicking in glass doors and panels.

The victims ranged from well-known chains such as Costa Coffee, Timpson's, Claire's, Greggs, and Vision Express, to local independent shops, and charity shops, including British Heart Foundation.

In total, police received reports of damage from 43 commercial premises.

An investigation was launched and Edwards was identified from CCTV footage.