A man led an armed gang that attacked a house while he should have been in prison, Wales Online reports. William Joyce, who had been granted a temporary release from prison for four days but did not return, was unlawfully at large for nearly two years. During this time, he participated in the violent attack on a house, where he played a leading role, according to the judge who sent him to prison.
The incident occurred on July 20 in Gorseinon, with the victim being the defendant’s aunt. Four males armed with weapons vandalised the property, seeking someone called “Lurch” who was not there. Identified as the 27-year-old defendant, Joyce was the only person recognised from the group. Despite the lack of a victim impact statement due to withdrawn support for prosecution, the court heard details of the attack.
Joyce had been serving an eight-year prison sentence for his involvement in a burglary gang that targeted over 70 homes in south Wales. After being granted temporary release in Swansea, he did not return to prison until his arrest in Cardiff in July 2024. Joyce pleaded guilty to charges of violent disorder, criminal damage, and failing to return to prison, leading to a total sentence of three years in prison with the possibility of release on licence after serving half the term.
His defence counsel cited personal struggles faced by Joyce’s partner and family as contributing factors to his actions. The judge noted his leading role in the violent disorder and emphasised the significance of his arrest ending his unlawful absence from prison. Joyce’s extensive criminal record includes convictions for various offences such as robberies, burglaries, battery, and conspiracy to commit burglary.
As the court proceedings unfolded, details emerged about the family-based burglary gang’s methods and criminal activities, shedding light on Joyce’s criminal history and involvement. The sentencing of Joyce to three years in prison reflects the severity of his actions and the impact on the community.