MODEL CITIZEN: Model and Care Worker Graham Edwards whistleblew on poor treatment of care home tenants. Courtesy: Graham Edwards
Serious failings led to a Carmarthen man’s prosecution it has been found. Graham Edwards, 34, was convicted at Llanelli Magistrates Court following a series of blunders by Dyfed Powys Police and Hywel Dda Health Board.
Edwards had an unblemished career up until this point, working for Hwyel Dda NHS Trust in 2008 with a clear criminal records check. Things quickly deteriorated however, when Edwards reported wrongdoings at the trust, leading to his dismissal.
It is thought that the evidence of female janitor Hazel Hullock, which was dismissed by the court, was fabricated in order to frame Edwards because of his whistleblowing in the past about her colleagues.
Defending himself, Edwards said he felt let down by the authorities. “I feel they have completed failed to meet and address my emotional needs time and time again,” he said. “I went to see Ken Lloyd at the resource centre for help this one afternoon, but he wasn’t there.
“Instead I was presented with Lyn Carter, whose superior I previously whistle-blew on, who kicked me in my testicles and man-handled me to the ground.”
Edwards, already in a terrified state was then challenged by PC Stuart Mann 553 and PC Thomas, who is it thought both threatened Edwards. “Instead of helping me, the police sided with Lyn Carter, cracking my head open,” Edwards said. “I had prior dealings with PC Stuart Mann when I have needed help because of my disability, and each time PC Stuart Mann’s behaviour towards me has gone worse and worse.”
Edwards remains defiant. “I did nothing wrong as all I wanted was help,” he said. “I feel victimised by the police and Hywel Dda Health Trust, just because I whistleblew on how they mistreated patients when I used to work for them.”
Llanelli Magistrates Court were unable to comment.
