A DEFENCE solicitor queried why a young man was brought to court after he was charged with criminal damage when he placed a traffic cone on top of a police car.

Cameron Townsend’s case was dealt with by way of an absolute discharge – but the conviction for criminal damage will remain on his record.

The Newtown 22-year-old held a protest by placing a traffic cone on a police car outside Newtown Police Station on August 18, 2021, causing minor scratches to the unmarked vehicle, Welshpool Magistrates Court heard.

Townsend fully admitted criminal damage, and was handed an absolute discharge by Welshpool Magistrates’ Court, meaning that no further action would be taken because the offence was deemed to be very minor.

Owain Jones, defending, said: “I don’t know why an Adult Community Resolution was not given by the police. His phone had been taken by the police for an investigation. I hope that wasn’t the reason why. He was convicted for communication with police, again with his protest.

“I would ask in light of that you consider an absolute discharge.”

Probation officer Julian Davies told the court that Townsend’s engagement with an ongoing 18-month community order for another offence was “faultless”, which chair of the magistrates’ bench, Cynthia McVey, praised Townsend for his progress.

“We rarely hear a good report about such behaviour,” she said. “Although you are guilty, we do not think you need to be punished further because of your behaviour. However, a record of this conviction will be on your criminal record.”

Mrs McVey added: “Probation can make a difference to your life, and its looks like it’s going way.”

The magistrates decided not to award the police compensation because no value of the damage was given to the court.