Milford Man Jailed for Racial Abuse in Work Payment Dispute

A Milford Haven man has admitted to hurling racial insults at another male following a dispute over work payment. 💼

Ben Hilton, 32, of Marble Hall Road, Milford Haven, appeared via video link from HM Parc Prison at Haverfordwest magistrates court this week, where he pleaded guilty to racially aggravated harassment of Mr Mikeal Campbell between February 19 and February 27, 2024.

Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan told the court: “Work had been carried out at the victim’s property in Market Street, Haverfordwest and a dispute broke out over money and how much work had been undertaken. There was a break down in their working relationship, and various comments were made to the victim. These included ‘a dirty conman’, ‘a dirty black b****** and a ‘n** n**’.”

Hilton was legally represented by Alaw Harries, who stated: “No threats of violence were made, although he accepts that this was racially aggravated. He should not have made those comments, and he knows that. But the defendant was frustrated as he believed the victim owned him money for work. However some level of distress was caused to the victim.”

The court heard that Hilton is currently serving a custodial sentence following a previous conviction in July 2024.

Ms Harries added: “Since then, he’s made significant progress in custody and is in a stable environment where he can address his issues. He’s been working as a cleaner and has been doing educational work in English and maths.”

Hilton was sentenced to nine weeks in custody for the racial harassment offence. He was also ordered to pay a £154 court surcharge and £85 costs. ⚖️