Paddleboard Operator Jailed for Manslaughter, Former Police Officer Sacked

Nerys Bethan Lloyd, a former police officer and paddleboard company owner, was sentenced to 10 years and six months in prison for gross negligence manslaughter following the deaths of four people during a hazardous paddleboarding excursion on the River Cleddau in October 2021. Despite weather warnings and dangerous conditions, Lloyd failed to warn the group about a deadly weir or provide safety instructions, leading to the deaths of Paul O'Dwyer, Andrea Powell, Morgan Rogers, and Nicola Wheatley. Prior to the incident, Lloyd was dismissed from South Wales Police after being found guilty of insurance fraud, where she falsely claimed over £500 for car repairs that actually cost about £20. She admitted her wrongdoing in the insurance case, repaid the money, and accepted a formal police caution just two weeks before the fatal river trip. The court and the victims' families condemned Lloyd's actions, with the judge highlighting her lack of preparation and communication about the river's dangers. South Wales Police released details of her misconduct hearing after the criminal case concluded, emphasizing the breach of trust involved in her prior role as a law enforcement officer.