A disgruntled hotel worker in Wales threatened to burn down the establishment where he was employed. The incident occurred at the Ivy Bush hotel in Carmarthen, where the employee, Hefin Rosser, made threats to set fire to the hotel reception at 3 am. Following the threats, police discovered Rosser at the hotel with lighters and a can of petrol.
During the court proceedings at Swansea Crown Court, it was revealed that the employee’s actions were possibly triggered by an issue at work that could have led to a disciplinary procedure. The 47-year-old employee admitted to his intentions to set the hotel on fire in phone calls and messages to a manager, the police, and even his father.
Police found Rosser’s car parked behind the hotel at 11.45 pm on the same night, where they discovered him with a bottle of wine, two cigarette lighters, and a petrol can. After being arrested, Rosser expressed his desire to die and take the hotel down with him. Despite refusing to take an evidential breath test, he acknowledged that his intention was to burn down the Ivy Bush.
Rosser, who had no prior convictions, pleaded guilty to making threats to damage property and was sentenced to 12 months in prison, suspended for two years. He was also ordered to complete a rehabilitation course, undergo alcohol monitoring, and perform 100 hours of unpaid work. Additionally, the defendant received a 12-month driving disqualification.
Rosser’s defence lawyer highlighted his client’s history of poor mental health but stressed that it was not an excuse for his actions. The judge admonished Rosser for his “incredibly stupid” behaviour, causing significant inconvenience to the hotel and its residents. Ultimately, the court opted for a suspended sentence with rehabilitation requirements and community service for the defendant.