Birmingham Crown Court Sentencing Results

Explore 250 verdicts at Birmingham Crown Court (Birmingham). Updated with the latest court outcomes.

Callum Bennett

Wounding with intent

October 10, 2025

Sentence: 5 years imprisonment

Callum Bennett, of Warmington Road, Sheldon, carried out three vicious attacks on Broad Street, Birmingham. On January 1, 2025, he punched and kicked a teenage ex-boyfriend of a friend from behind at least seven times, breaking his jaw, requiring surgery at Good Hope Hospital. On January 24, 2025, he punched a teenage love rival three times in the face at the same venue, causing bruising, due to past involvement with the same girl. On February 23, 2025, he chased and struck a man from behind, believing he groped a girl, causing the victim to fall unconscious, suffer a fractured skull, broken jaw, brain bleeding, and a several-day coma. Bennett was captured on CCTV for the first two incidents and incriminated by boastful voice notes on his phone for the third. He was arrested the day after the third attack.

Pleaded guilty to wounding with intent, assault occasioning actual bodily harm and unlawful wounding. First-time offender who spiralled due to alcohol, drugs, peer pressure and bravado after turning 18. Psychiatric report alluded to undiagnosed autism and ADHD. Recorder Helen Wolstenholme noted he would likely mature in custody and had family support.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Iftikhar Hussain

Money Laundering

October 10, 2025

Sentence: 12-month community order

Iftikhar Hussain, 68, from Birmingham, participated in the money laundering scheme by moving £29,400 in cash on one occasion as part of the operation that handled over £5.3million.

Fasheeh Ahmed

Importation of heroin

October 10, 2025

Sentence: 8 years imprisonment

Fasheeh Ahmed, aged 24, of Thornhill Road, Handsworth, was part of a Birmingham gang that attempted to import over £280,000 worth of heroin hidden in the walls of a pressure cooker sent to a business in Formans Road, Sparkhill. The parcel was intercepted by customs on July 24, 2023, and allowed to proceed for a controlled delivery. Ahmed was arrested along with associates after picking up the package. A search of a linked flat on Stratford Road revealed nearly half a kilo of heroin, cutting agents, £15,000 in cash, and several phones. The total value of the heroin seized was approximately £458,000.

Convicted of importation of heroin, possession with intent to supply heroin, and possession of criminal property.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Gurmeet Handa

Money Laundering

October 10, 2025

Sentence: 6 years and 9 months imprisonment

Gurmeet Handa, 52, from Little Aston, Birmingham, orchestrated a sophisticated money laundering operation that moved more than £5.3million. He purchased nearly 30 properties using funds from numerous bank accounts, including those based outside the UK, despite declaring little or no income to HMRC. The operation was uncovered after West Midlands Police seized £30,000 in cash in Alum Rock, Birmingham, in 2016, leading to a complex investigation involving the Regional Economic Crime Unit, West Midlands Regional Organised Crime Unit, and HMRC.

Pleaded guilty to money laundering. Ordered to pay back £5.8million, including £460,000 in unpaid taxes to HMRC. Must sell 28 properties secured through criminal activity. Failure to pay will result in an additional 10-year sentence.

Sources: leicestermercury.co.uk

Phillip Collins

Assault occasioning actual bodily harm

October 9, 2025

Sentence: 10 months imprisonment

On May 24, 2025, at around 5pm, Phillip Collins went to his girlfriend's address in Sutton Coldfield and accused her of lying about her whereabouts the previous night. After consuming four cans of cider, he smashed the front door of the communal area with a fire extinguisher, kicked the front door to her flat, punched her to the back of her head and face causing a cut to her lip, and then assaulted her female friend who intervened by punching her multiple times to the head and face and pulling her hair. Despite bail conditions, on June 6 he contacted her uninvited while intoxicated, demanding money, and later sent messages and a video threatening to destroy her property. The victim initially felt scared and vulnerable but later submitted a retraction statement dismissing the incident as 'silly' and supporting him.

Pleaded guilty to common assault, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, two counts of criminal damage, harassment and threats to cause criminal damage. Released immediately or in days due to time on remand. No restraining order imposed. Prior record of 23 convictions for 41 offences including theft, burglary, robbery, assaults and criminal damage. Remorseful and addressing addiction in custody.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Mohammad Suleyman

Conspiracy to defraud

October 3, 2025

Sentence: 4 years imprisonment

Mohammad Suleyman, aged 35, of Scholars Close in Soho, Birmingham, along with his cousin Mohammed Masood, posed as a Detective Chief Inspector over the phone to con elderly victims out of money and goods. The frauds occurred between July 18 and September 5, 2023, targeting individuals aged 67 to 86. They convinced one 86-year-old victim to give £4,500 and two new iPhones, and a 77-year-old to purchase a £13,000 Rolex, which Suleyman collected on CCTV. The conspiracy involved eight frauds or attempted frauds, using manipulative tactics like keeping phone lines open to impersonate bank officials. At least two other people were involved.

Admitted conspiracy to defraud. Sentence minus 113 qualifying days spent on tagged curfew. Motivated by greed and oblivious to the effect on elderly vulnerable victims.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Mohammed Banaras

Unlawful wounding

October 3, 2025

Sentence: 4 years imprisonment

On March 20, 2025, Mohammed Banaras accompanied Adrian Hay to the victim's HMO on Pershore Road. While Hay used a metal bar, Banaras wielded a gas canister to strike the victim repeatedly in the head. The cameras at the address had been deliberately moved beforehand. The victim, who had been out shopping and returned to the shared sitting room, was knocked unconscious, stamped and kicked, and suffered severe injuries including a cut to his eye, multiple skull fractures, and brain bleeding. He was hospitalized for three weeks in an induced coma. The motive for the attack remains a mystery.

Pleaded guilty to unlawful wounding. Prior conviction for robbery. Wrote a letter of apology to the victim expressing deepest regret and suffering from nightmares. At a crossroads in life with pregnant wife, will miss beginning of child's life.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Mohammed Masood

Conspiracy to defraud

October 3, 2025

Sentence: 6 years imprisonment

Mohammed Masood, aged 26, of St Bartholomews Road, Newham, London, along with his cousin Mohammad Suleyman, posed as a Detective Chief Inspector over the phone to con elderly victims out of money and goods. The frauds occurred between July 18 and September 5, 2023, targeting individuals aged 67 to 86. They convinced one 86-year-old victim to give £4,500 and two new iPhones, and a 77-year-old to purchase a £13,000 Rolex, which Masood impersonated over the phone during collection. The conspiracy involved eight frauds or attempted frauds, using manipulative tactics like keeping phone lines open to impersonate bank officials. At least two other people were involved. Separately, he committed dangerous driving and drove without insurance.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to defraud, dangerous driving, and driving without insurance. Banned from driving for 6 years. Was experiencing a difficult time living with his older cousin during the offending period.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Adrian Hay

Unlawful wounding

October 3, 2025

Sentence: 8 years imprisonment

On March 20, 2025, Adrian Hay, known to the victim as 'Bart', arrived at the victim's HMO on Pershore Road with Mohammed Banaras. Hay was shouting and holding a metal bar, which he used to punch the victim in the head. The victim, who had been out shopping and returned to the shared sitting room, was also struck repeatedly with a gas canister by Banaras. The cameras at the address had been deliberately moved beforehand. The victim was knocked unconscious, stamped and kicked, and suffered severe injuries including a cut to his eye, multiple skull fractures, and brain bleeding. He was hospitalized for three weeks in an induced coma. Additionally, Hay was sentenced for possession of 116 wraps of crack cocaine worth over £1,000, seized in September 2022.

Pleaded guilty to unlawful wounding and possession of class A drugs with intent to supply. Prior convictions for theft-type offences, robbery, and importing drugs. Expressed sincere apology. Spiralled into drug use after father's death during Covid-19 pandemic.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Bilal Khan

Conspiracy to steal motor vehicles

September 28, 2025

Sentence: 2 years suspended sentence

Bilal Khan participated in a gang that stole over 40 cars from Birmingham and Solihull between January and July of the previous year. The group targeted expensive models, shared videos and photos on social media platforms, attempted to blackmail victims, removed vehicle trackers, and sold the cars, including contacting buyers nationwide.

Admitted conspiring to steal motor vehicles; drove a getaway car in one incident.

Sources: stokesentinel.co.uk

Harris Haroon

Conspiracy to steal motor vehicles

September 28, 2025

Sentence: 3 years in a young offenders' institution

Harris Haroon was part of a gang that stole more than 40 cars, including BMWs and other models, from Birmingham and Solihull between January and July of the previous year. They used social media to flaunt the stolen vehicles, posed in videos driving and stealing them, and engaged in blackmailing victims to repurchase their cars, while removing trackers and selling the vehicles.

Admitted conspiring to steal motor vehicles; the group shared evidence of their crimes on social media.

Sources: stokesentinel.co.uk

Mohammed Akleem Ali

Conspiracy to steal motor vehicles

September 28, 2025

Sentence: 36-month Youth Supervision Order

Mohammed Akleem Ali was involved in a gang that stole more than 40 cars from Birmingham and Solihull between January and July of the previous year. The group stole vehicles by loitering in streets and car parks, shared evidence on social media, blackmailed victims to buy back their cars, removed trackers, and sold the vehicles to buyers across the UK.

Admitted conspiring to steal motor vehicles; ordered to participate in a Restorative Justice intervention programme.

Sources: stokesentinel.co.uk

Waqar Khan

Conspiracy to steal motor vehicles

September 28, 2025

Sentence: 4.5 years imprisonment

Waqar Khan was involved in a gang that stole more than 40 cars, primarily BMWs and other expensive models, from Birmingham and Solihull between January and July of the previous year. The group loitered on streets and car parks to target vehicles, shared photos and videos of the stolen cars on WhatsApp and Snapchat, contacted victims to blackmail them into buying back their own cars, removed trackers from vehicles, and sold them to buyers across the UK, including one from Middlesbrough.

Admitted conspiring to steal motor vehicles; used his own BMW to stake out and as a getaway car; part of a group that stole and sold cars.

Sources: stokesentinel.co.uk

Susan Wilson

Illegal puppy farming

September 22, 2025

Sentence: 20 months imprisonment suspended for 18 months and 20 rehabilitation days

Susan Wilson, along with Ian Wilson, operated an illegal puppy farm from their two-bedroom house in Hednesford, Cannock, between 2017 and 2019, breeding mainly Chihuahuas and German Shepherds. They sold puppies online, claiming they were family pets, and made approximately £105,000. The house was in rancid conditions, with around 60 dogs kept in faeces and urine, and they used hormone drugs to increase breeding productivity without veterinary care. The operation was described as the worst case of animal neglect by environmental health officers.

Pleaded guilty to running an illegal puppy farm. Judge Andrew Smith KC noted that custody was warranted but spared jail due to ailing health, including hypertension, strokes, and type two diabetes. She was made subject to a criminal behaviour order for three years and faced social media backlash.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Ian Wilson

Illegal puppy farming, fraud, and money laundering

September 22, 2025

Sentence: 22 months imprisonment suspended for 18 months and 20 rehabilitation days

Ian Wilson, along with Susan Wilson, operated an illegal puppy farm from their two-bedroom house in Hednesford, Cannock, between 2017 and 2019, breeding mainly Chihuahuas and German Shepherds. They sold puppies online, claiming they were family pets, and made approximately £105,000. The house was in rancid conditions, with around 60 dogs kept in faeces and urine, and they used hormone drugs to increase breeding productivity without veterinary care. The operation was described as the worst case of animal neglect by environmental health officers.

Pleaded guilty to running an illegal puppy farm, fraud, and money laundering. Judge Andrew Smith KC noted that custody was warranted but spared jail due to ailing health, including hip replacement, sepsis, heart disease, and COPD. No remorse was shown, and he was made subject to a criminal behaviour order for three years.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Ishmael Farquharson

Manslaughter

September 17, 2025

Sentence: 22 years imprisonment

Ishmael Farquharson, aged 34, stabbed 16-year-old Sekou Doucoure in the chest during a knife fight on the forecourt of an Esso petrol station on Nursery Road, Newtown, Birmingham, on July 12, 2022. The incident stemmed from rival gang affiliations, with Farquharson pursuing Sekou amid postcode gang rivalries between Get Round Der (B20 area) and 9Boyz (B19 area). Farquharson arrived at the scene armed with a significant knife, engaged in the fight, overpowered Sekou, and delivered the fatal blow. He fled the scene, discarded the weapon, and was later arrested in Spain after going on the run.

Cleared of murder but guilty of manslaughter. Had 18 previous convictions for offences including violent assaults. His barrister stated the killing was out-of-character and a reaction in the heat of the moment, and he expressed regret and apologised to the victim's family.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Abdurrahman Summers

Murder

September 15, 2025

Sentence: Life imprisonment with a minimum term of 19 years

Abdurrahman Summers was one of three teenagers convicted of murdering Reuben Higgins, 17, in a vape shop in Marston Green, Solihull. On October 29, 2024, Reuben was confronted by a group including Summers, accused of a prior knife threat (which had no evidence), and refused to go with them. The group chased him into the Vape Minimarket, forced their way inside, and attacked him while he was unarmed and trying to barricade the door. Reuben suffered four stab wounds, including a fatal one to the heart, and died at the scene. Summers was armed and prepared for trouble.

Shouted 'I'm still breathing' towards the victim's family; had previous convictions for multiple robbery offences and possessing a knife; purchased a bus ticket to Spain after the killing but handed himself in.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Surjit Singh

Murder

September 12, 2025

Sentence: Life imprisonment

Surjit Singh attacked his 76-year-old mother, Mohinder Kaur, at their family home on Clarence Road, Handsworth. He contacted a relative admitting to the attack around 1pm on 29 September of the previous year. Police found her fatally wounded on the living room floor, and she was pronounced dead later that evening at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital. The cause of death was injuries consistent with multiple blows, though the motive and use of a weapon were unclear. Singh returned to the scene and was arrested, stating he did not mean to do it and had lost his head.

Pleaded guilty to murder. Det Insp Nick Barnes commented that this senseless killing has torn apart a family.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Hayley Cook

Conveying prohibited items into prison

September 11, 2025

Sentence: 23 months imprisonment, suspended for two years

Hayley Cook sent parcels to Carl Brookes in prison, containing mobile phones, chargers, tablets, sheets soaked in 'Spice', steroids, and other items. The first package was sent on April 12, 2022, and the second on April 14, 2022. Her fingerprints were found on the packaging, and messages on her phone confirmed her involvement. This occurred while Brookes was serving a sentence for firearms offences, and Cook's actions were linked to their relationship, which involved domestic violence and threats.

Admitted two counts of conveying a prohibited item into prison. Judge Sarah Buckingham criticised her for remaining in a relationship with Carl Brookes and urged her to leave for the sake of herself and her children. She was also ordered to carry out 20 days of rehabilitation activity, 125 hours of unpaid work, and pay £500 in costs.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Reagan Bates

Exposure

September 9, 2025

Sentence: 12 months imprisonment

Reagan Bates repeatedly visited a woman's home, initially asking for food, but later exposed his erect penis to her around 10.55pm, leading her to slam the door. Prior to this, he stole two sandwich wraps from Marks & Spencer at Heartlands Hospital on January 6, 2025, assaulting two security guards during his apprehension and was found with cannabis. Additionally, on May 11, 2025, he assaulted a man at Lichfield City railway station after the victim tried to stop him from fleeing with a stolen bag. His behaviour escalated over weeks, influenced by cannabis use and mental health issues.

Pleaded guilty to exposure, theft, criminal damage, possession of cannabis, three counts of assault, and breaching a suspended sentence for robbery. Diagnosed with Autism and ADHD, and struggled with custody.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Micah Williams

Strangulation

September 8, 2025

Sentence: 17 months imprisonment and a ban from keeping animals for three years and six months

Micah Williams, aged 36, of Hampson Close, Sparkbrook, attacked his partner at Oriel House tower block in Solihull on June 22, 2025, during a row. He wrestled the lead from her dog, causing the animal to be lifted off the ground and escape, and then strangled her on a stairwell. The incident was reported by a neighbour and captured on CCTV. Despite his partner's lack of support for the prosecution, his history of domestic violence, including 25 callouts between November 2020 and June 2025, was considered.

Admitted to strangulation and animal cruelty. Has 25 domestic violence callouts in five years. Previous conviction for assaulting an ex-partner. Suffers from Autism, ADHD, and Asperger's, as stated in defence. Judge noted his violent temper, issues with conflict resolution, and alcohol problems.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Yasir Islam

Causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity

September 3, 2025

Sentence: 6 years imprisonment with an extended licence of 4 years

Yasir Islam, aged 23 from Moseley, sexually exploited more than a dozen young girls aged 10 to 15 via a video chat platform. He encouraged them to expose private parts of their bodies while he engaged in sexual activity on camera, recorded the interactions, and uploaded a category A indecent image of a child to Snapchat. The offences occurred over a six-month period when he was aged 21 and 22. Police discovered 161 indecent images and videos on his devices, including material he created himself, leading to his arrest after a search warrant was executed.

Pleaded guilty to five charges of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity and five counts of engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child, among other offences. Declared a 'dangerous' offender by the judge. Defense suggested boredom as a factor, and he expressed deep shame.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Jonathan Philp

Rape

September 2, 2025

Sentence: 22 years imprisonment with an extended eight-year licence period

Jonathan Philp, aged 46, from The Monk's Croft, Coventry, raped and sexually abused a boy over a period, admitting he was sexually attracted to children and would have continued the abuse if not reported. The victim made disclosures to a school counsellor, leading to Philp's arrest. The abuse caused the victim significant emotional distress, including difficulty sleeping, concentrating, increased anger and sadness, and negative impacts on his education and school life. Philp had portrayed himself as a dedicated church-goer and community helper, but was revealed as a 'deceitful monster hiding in plain sight'.

Pleaded guilty to the charges. Expressed sincere remorse and had no previous convictions. Judge Sarah Buckingham described him as a 'selfish, self-centred paedophile' and noted he posed a danger to children.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Jessica Taylor

Conspiracy to Fraudulently Evade Prohibition on Importation of Cannabis

August 27, 2025

Sentence: 14-month sentence, suspended for two years; six-month curfew between 8pm and 6am; 30 days rehabilitation activity

Jessica Taylor, aged 23, agreed to smuggle approximately 20 kilograms of cannabis, valued at £50,000, through Birmingham Airport in exchange for a free holiday to Thailand. She was recruited into the scheme amid personal difficulties and addiction issues. On April 24, 2025, she arrived at Birmingham Airport from Bangkok via Copenhagen and attempted to pass through the nothing to declare lane with a locked suitcase containing the drugs, which also had an AirTag concealed inside a hairbrush. She was stopped by Border Force officers, initially claimed her boyfriend had packed the suitcase, but later admitted to the act herself.

Pleaded guilty to the offense. Had previous convictions for drug-driving, possession of cocaine and cannabis. Judge noted her judgement was clouded by addiction and warned this was her last chance, highlighting elements of exploitation due to her vulnerability.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Keaton Davies

Rape

August 22, 2025

Sentence: 14 years imprisonment with a four-year extended licence period

Keaton Davies, aged 15, raped a 13-year-old vulnerable girl on two occasions. Later, at age 19, he targeted three young girls, including a 12-year-old, over Snapchat, demanding nude pictures through coercion and threats, such as petrol bombing a home or self-harm. He leaked some images online, pressured one victim into unwanted sex, and caused another to attempt suicide. His actions had a profound and traumatic impact on the victims.

Pleaded guilty to two counts of rape among more than a dozen sex offences. Described as 'damaged and broken' with a bleak outlook; judge considered his age, immaturity, and background.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Emmanuel Johnson

Stalking

August 22, 2025

Sentence: Two years and four months imprisonment

Emmanuel Johnson subjected his ex-partner to a campaign of unwanted and threatening contact starting in October of the previous year. This included sending social media friend requests, making direct calls where he said 'I will never leave you alone' and threatened to shoot her in the face, contacting her friends, threatening to track her car with an Apple AirTag, and telling her he would 'write you off'. The victim reported the incidents to the police, leading to his arrest on July 11. She experienced significant distress, changing her phone number, social media accounts, and considering enhanced home security, as she feared for her life.

Admitted to stalking involving serious alarm and distress, witness intimidation, and breaching a restraining order. Previously jailed for controlling and coercive behaviour. Judge Simon Ash KC noted limited evidence of remorse and imposed a further indefinite restraining order.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Aimee Betro

Conspiracy to murder

August 21, 2025

Sentence: 30 years imprisonment

Aimee Betro, from Wisconsin, USA, attempted to shoot Sikander Ali outside his home in Yardley on September 7, 2019, while disguised in a niqab and burka. Her gun jammed during the initial attempt, and she returned later to fire three shots through the windows of his unoccupied home. This was amid a family rivalry stemming from a 2018 incident in a Birmingham boutique shop, where she was hired to target members of the rival family.

Played a leading role in the assassination plot, motivated by infatuation with Mohammed Nazir. Spent nearly 200 days in custody in Armenia awaiting extradition and has been described as having an 'amateurish' approach.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Wayne Kenneth Brown

Animal welfare offences

August 21, 2025

Sentence: 12-month community order, 25 Rehabilitation Activity Requirement days, 80 hours of unpaid work, and a 10-year ban from keeping animals

Wayne Kenneth Brown and Margaret Jean Southall neglected their horse, Dynamite, who was underweight, suffering from a severe skin disease, and had wounds, scabs, ulcers, thickened skin, and bleeding from self-trauma due to intense itching. The horse also had diarrhoea, ulcers in his stomach from lack of adequate food, sand in his large intestine, and inflammation in his small and large intestines. Despite these conditions, they failed to seek urgent veterinary attention or provide basic preventative care. The horse was euthanised at their home before he could be seized for treatment.

Pleaded guilty to animal welfare offences. Aged 55 and shared ownership of the horse with Margaret Jean Southall.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Margaret Jean Southall

Animal welfare offences

August 21, 2025

Sentence: 12-month community order, 25 Rehabilitation Activity Requirement days, £200 costs, and a 10-year ban from keeping animals

Margaret Jean Southall and Wayne Kenneth Brown neglected their horse, Dynamite, who was underweight, suffering from a severe skin disease, and had wounds, scabs, ulcers, thickened skin, and bleeding from self-trauma due to intense itching. The horse also had diarrhoea, ulcers in his stomach from lack of adequate food, sand in his large intestine, and inflammation in his small and large intestines. Despite these conditions, they failed to seek urgent veterinary attention or provide basic preventative care. The horse was euthanised at their home before he could be seized for treatment.

Pleaded guilty to animal welfare offences. Aged 83, shared ownership of the horse with Wayne Kenneth Brown, and decided to euthanise the horse before veterinary care could be provided.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Rebecca Harris

Assault

August 19, 2025

Sentence: more than eight years imprisonment

Rebecca Harris, aged 35, an Aston Villa fan, slashed a woman with a samurai sword and was involved in additional violent behaviour, including mooning a judge and chanting 'Tommy Robinson' and 'EDL' during attacks on police and others in Solihull.

Declared 'dangerous' by the judge and jailed for slashing a woman with a samurai sword, along with other violent incidents including racist attacks.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Sandra Webb

Assault by beating

August 14, 2025

Sentence: £100 fine

Sandra Webb, aged 68, threw a cold drink over her adult daughter on July 15, 2025, at their home in Smith's Wood, Solihull, amid her alcohol addiction. This assault occurred shortly before she was due to complete a suspended sentence from 2023 for threatening her daughter with a knife. She admitted the charge and was remanded in custody due to the incident taking place in the family home and her prior conviction. The judge noted the case had been blown out of proportion and that imprisonment was wholly disproportionate.

Judge described the case as minor and disproportionate to the offence. She was remanded in custody prior to sentencing and had a previous suspended sentence for threatening her daughter with a knife. Ordered immediate release and advised to address her alcohol addiction.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Asif Khan

Breaches of tobacco regulations

August 11, 2025

Sentence: 16 months suspended for 18 months, 200 hours of unpaid work, and up to 30 days of rehabilitation activity

Asif Khan, the 33-year-old shopkeeper of Bob Shop 6 on Ladypool Road in Sparkbrook, was involved in selling hundreds of illegal vapes, counterfeit cigarettes, packets of hand rolling tobacco, and oral snuff in January 2024. Some vapes contained nicotine concentrations exceeding 50 per cent above the legal limit and had enough liquid for 9,000 puffs, surpassing the permitted threshold of around 600 puffs. These products were targeted at young people, contributing to a rise in children vaping.

Pleaded guilty to three trade marks offences, four breaches of tobacco regulations, two consumer protection charges, and a charge under the Proceeds of Crime Act. The judge noted that Bob Shops are often fronts for money laundering.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Andrew Millard

Possession with intent to supply class A drugs

August 8, 2025

Sentence: Two years and four months imprisonment

Andrew Millard, a 41-year-old father-of-four from Bentley Grove, Weoley Castle, was stopped by police while driving a white Mercedes in Solihull on May 16, 2023, after failing to indicate a turn. Police found him in possession of £160 in cash, scales, bags containing cocaine worth approximately £350 and £80, and a Nokia phone with incriminating messages. He initially denied being a street dealer but later confessed. Two other men in the car were not charged in relation to this incident.

Pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply class A drugs. Had 14 previous convictions, last offence in 2014. Judge noted the impact on his family and that he was a hard-working family man earning £50,000 a year.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Natalie Johnson

Theft

August 8, 2025

Sentence: 12 weeks imprisonment

Natalie Johnson attempted to shoplift items from Iceland in Kings Heath on June 2, 2025, by trying to leave without paying, which breached a suspended sentence imposed in November 2024 for similar thefts. She has a criminal history of 41 offences, 29 of which were theft-related, linked to her addiction to heroin and cocaine. She previously placed her children in the care of her mother to protect them from her drug use and offending.

Admitted theft and breaching a suspended sentence. Judge Dean Kershaw criticised her ongoing thefts due to drug addiction and urged her to seek help, noting her history of giving up her children to a family member.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Cameron Brockman

Wounding with intent

August 7, 2025

Sentence: 2 years and 11 months imprisonment and a seven-year football ban

On November 2, 2024, Cameron Brockman, a Maidstone United fan, delivered a vicious flying kick to the head of a 16-year-old Birmingham City fan outside the Masons Arms in Solihull, following an initial attack by two other men. The victim suffered severe injuries, including a broken skull, jaw, nose, and loss of three teeth. Brockman had a history of football-related violence, including a previous fight with Southend United fans, and was under a court-imposed ban from attending matches at the time.

Admitted to wounding with intent and affray. Judge Roderick Henderson noted his potential for reform but imposed immediate imprisonment, stating he could have killed the victim. Defence highlighted a difficult and unstable upbringing, and that he has taken steps to address his behaviour.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Mohammed Ibrhim

Murder

August 6, 2025

Sentence: Life imprisonment with a minimum term of 16 years and 8 months

Mohammed Ibrhim stabbed his neighbour, Morteza Ajdani, in the stomach with a kitchen knife during an argument in the kitchen of their shared house in multiple occupation on Warwick Road in Acocks Green on February 1, 2025. The incident stemmed from ongoing bad blood between them, including prior disputes over a stolen wallet and a violent struggle. Ibrhim wiped the knife clean, discarded it, and falsely claimed Ajdani had injured himself. The event was captured on CCTV, and Ibrhim only confessed after initially maintaining his lie.

Pleaded guilty to murder on the day of trial. Judge Andrew Smith KC stated that previous arguments provided no justification for the attack. Defence noted Ibrhim's kindness and personal struggles, including homelessness and inability to provide for his family.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Roman Le

Conspiracy to produce cannabis

July 30, 2025

Sentence: 6 years and 2 months imprisonment

Roman Le headed a gang that operated at least eight cannabis farms in residential and commercial properties, including a disused hotel in Clayton-le-Moors, Lancashire. He posed as a property developer to source and rent properties, using scaffolding to disguise the operations. The farms, staffed by exploited illegal migrants, produced cannabis worth millions of pounds. He was arrested on 4 November 2020 at his home in Birmingham.

Pleaded not guilty to conspiring to produce cannabis and was found guilty after an eight-day trial.

Sources: lancs.live

Imraj Randhawa

Possession with intent to supply class A drugs

July 23, 2025

Sentence: two and a half years imprisonment

Imraj Randhawa was observed supplying cocaine and heroin to known drug users in Bedworth, Warwickshire, just two days after starting his illegal activities. On October 15, police stopped him in his Ford Kuga, finding drugs worth around £200, a claw hammer, mobile phones, and cash in his car. Further searches at his home uncovered additional drugs, paraphernalia, weapons including a machete, and a list of contacts. He was still building his client base at the time of arrest.

Pleaded guilty to two counts of possessing class A drugs with intent to supply. Judge expressed sadness at the sentence and reduced it as much as possible, citing personal circumstances including job loss, brother's drug debt, and the defendant's own addiction to alcohol and cocaine.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Gary Henry

Fraudulent evasion of income tax

July 19, 2025

Sentence: Eight months imprisonment suspended for 21 months, including 30 days of rehabilitation activity and 150 hours of unpaid work

Gary Henry, a 58-year-old quality control manager at Jaguar Land Rover, was involved in an illegal tax evasion scam. He submitted bogus expenses claims to HM Revenue and Customs for the years 2016 to 2021, receiving nearly £32,000 in tax relief he was not entitled to. He was influenced by a man named Femi Mwangi, who allegedly acted as an accountant and took a 40 per cent commission. Henry ignored letters from HMRC on Mwangi's advice and retained his job at JLR.

Admitted being knowingly concerned in the fraudulent evasion of income tax. Burst into tears during sentencing and vowed to repay the money obtained.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Farzana Kauser

Importing cocaine

July 18, 2025

Sentence: 13 years and 4 months imprisonment

Farzana Kauser masterminded the smuggling of cocaine from Cancun, Mexico, to the UK by using her children as couriers. Between August and November 2024, the group made five trips, with the final one on November 11, 2024, involving her children carrying 180kg of cocaine with a street value of £14.4 million. The operation involved booking short trips to Amsterdam or Dublin, timing flights to coincide with those from Cancun, and passing through customs with unaccompanied suitcases loaded with drugs.

Pleaded guilty to importing 180 kilograms of cocaine. Led a family-based organised crime group, instructing her children on smuggling techniques.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Hareece Ali

Assault and Harassment

July 18, 2025

Sentence: 5.5 years imprisonment

Hareece Ali harassed and assaulted two former partners. For the first victim, he cut off a clump of her hair with a knife, threatened to throw acid in her face, and sent over 1,000 messages in a week, including threats and abusive language, while also using fake social media accounts. For the second victim, during their short relationship, he pressured her to spend £30,000 of her personal injury payout on him, punched her multiple times in various incidents, threatened to kill her friends and children, smashed her window, and threatened to bury her on the beach. He fled to Turkey but resumed the abuse upon returning to the UK.

Admitted two counts of harassment and three offences of assault. Judge described his behaviour as dreadful and revolting, and his lawyer noted he was brash and self-centred but had shown remorse.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Emma Rolls

Strangulation and Assault Occasioning Actual Bodily Harm

July 17, 2025

Sentence: 15 months imprisonment, suspended for two years, 25 days rehabilitation activity, 200 hours unpaid work, and £120 compensation

Emma Rolls launched an unprovoked attack on Bethany Arris on March 16, 2025, at a house in Wiselack Place, Worcester, while the victim was collecting her belongings after ending a relationship. Rolls warned Arris to 'take that look off your face', then pushed her into a radiator, strangled her for 20 to 25 seconds causing difficulty in breathing and visible finger marks, grabbed her hair, punched her in the face and head several times, and kneed her, resulting in bruising, bleeding, and severe trauma to the victim.

Pleaded guilty to strangulation and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Has a history of violence with 13 previous convictions, including nine offences against the person. Judge Sjolin Knight highlighted her unresolved childhood trauma and spared jail, urging her to seek therapy and change her behaviour.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Mohammed Wahid Mohammed

Rape

July 17, 2025

Sentence: 12 years imprisonment with an extended five-year licence

Mohammed Wahid Mohammed, a 22-year-old Syrian national and asylum seeker, was working illegally at Villa Supermarket in Handsworth when he encountered a 12-year-old girl who had run away from home on September 24, 2024. He groomed her by offering a vape, crisps, and a fizzy drink, then took her upstairs to a bedroom where he locked the door and repeatedly raped her, despite her stating she was only 12. The victim had initially pretended to be older. After the assault, she was rescued at a nearby takeaway by an Asian family, one of whom physically confronted the defendant. He was arrested shortly after and claimed the girl had consented, but this was invalid due to her age.

Admitted two counts of sexually assaulting a girl under the age of 13; found guilty by a jury of three charges of rape, which he had denied; Judge Roderick Henderson described him as a 'dangerous' offender and noted he exploited the victim due to her youth and vulnerability; he wept during the hearing.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Mohammed Ibrahim

Causing death by dangerous driving

July 16, 2025

Sentence: 13 years and 3 months imprisonment

Mohammed Ibrahim was racing another car at speeds up to 84mph in a 30mph zone on Boxing Day, 2023, in Shard End. He lost control of his BMW while overtaking, collided with a quad bike and then an oncoming MG carrying four generations of a family. This resulted in the deaths of Amanda Riley, 49, and Linda Philips, 72, at the scene, and serious injuries to other family members, including a fractured sternum, a broken leg requiring surgery, and bruising to the lungs. Ibrahim fled the scene but was later arrested.

Pleaded guilty to two counts of causing death by dangerous driving and three counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving. Judge Paul Farrer KC condemned him for fleeing the scene and stated that he knew what he had done. He had no previous convictions and was described as having led a positive life prior to the incident.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

James Herlock-Green

Fraud by abuse of position

July 15, 2025

Sentence: 2 years and 3 months imprisonment

James Herlock-Green, while serving as treasurer for an NHS Unison branch at Birmingham Women's and Children's Hospital, stole approximately £125,000 from union funds between 2019 and 2022. He misused the money, attempted to conceal his actions by providing incomplete financial records and lying about his employment status, and failed to honour a subsequent repayment agreement. The theft involved drawing cheques from the branch account to himself or his partner, and it was uncovered during an investigation prompted by concerns over financial management.

Pleaded guilty to fraud by abuse of position. Blamed gambling habit, but judge stated the excuse was 'not good enough'. References highlighted his good character and efforts to change since the offending was discovered.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Adrian Edwards

Attempted Robbery

July 14, 2025

Sentence: 2 years and 7 months imprisonment

Adrian Edwards, aged 45, targeted a Budgens shop in Edgbaston on January 31, attempting to steal two 5kg bags of rice and a bottle of milk. He reacted aggressively when stopped, pulling out a knife and trying to 'saw' a worker's wrist during a struggle, then escaped by diving under the shutters. He returned to the same shop on February 4 to steal more rice. He also targeted several Tesco stores in a five-week spree, stealing rice, fabric softener, and other items on dates including February 15, 21, 28, and March 3 and 7, often reacting aggressively when challenged. He was arrested on March 9 while sleeping in a bus stop in Handsworth. His actions caused fear and demoralisation among staff and negatively impacted the stores' brand image.

Admitted attempted robbery, six counts of theft and one offence of possessing cannabis. Had 26 previous convictions, mostly for theft. Defence noted he was living a chaotic life, sleeping rough, and using drugs out of desperation. Judge commended the bravery of victims and acknowledged remorse.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Aairus Rehman

Attempted Murder

July 11, 2025

Sentence: 22 years imprisonment

Aairus Rehman, along with Shomari Mapp and Shaquon Richardson-Bowen, arrived at Glendower Road in Perry Barr in a stolen Skoda around 11pm on May 18, 2024. Rehman fired three shots at the home of Eian and Helena Lothian, one of which shattered an upstairs window, striking Mr Lothian with glass. The group had conducted reconnaissance earlier, including following Mrs Lothian, and set fire to the Skoda afterwards to cover their tracks. The motive for the attack remains unknown, and the victims, who share the home with their two daughters and grandson, reported ongoing fear and trauma.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Amjad Alshameri

Attempting sexual communication with a child

July 11, 2025

Sentence: 18-month community order with 30 days rehabilitation activity and 100 hours unpaid work

Amjad Alshameri, using the Snapchat username 'Mo.Million07', contacted an undercover police officer posing as a 13-year-old girl named 'Liv'. He asked about her age, whether she liked older men, requested photographs, commented on her appearance, asked if she liked muscles after sending a gym photo, inquired if she was a 'naughty girl', and discussed topics including whether she was ready for sex and her previous relationships. This occurred on April 15, 2025, and he was linked to the account via his mobile number.

Pleaded guilty to the charge. Judge followed probation's recommendation for a community order instead of imprisonment, based on a pre-sentence report.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Shomari Mapp

Attempted Murder

July 11, 2025

Sentence: 20 years imprisonment

Shomari Mapp, along with Aairus Rehman and Shaquon Richardson-Bowen, arrived at Glendower Road in Perry Barr in a stolen Skoda around 11pm on May 18, 2024. Mapp was driving the vehicle during the attack on the home of Eian and Helena Lothian, where Rehman fired three shots, one shattering an upstairs window. The group had conducted reconnaissance earlier, including following Mrs Lothian, and set fire to the Skoda afterwards. The motive remains unknown, leaving the victims with lasting fear and trauma.

Found guilty of attempted murder and arson after a trial. Judge Andrew Smith KC described him as dangerous and noted that the offence involved a planned attempted murder with a firearm. He had no prior convictions and was described by friends and family as respectful and talented, with aspirations to start his own business.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Shaquon Richardson-Bowen

Attempted Murder

July 11, 2025

Sentence: 20 years imprisonment

Shaquon Richardson-Bowen, along with Aairus Rehman and Shomari Mapp, arrived at Glendower Road in Perry Barr in a stolen Skoda around 11pm on May 18, 2024. Richardson-Bowen was armed with a knife and damaged a car on the driveway during the attack on the home of Eian and Helena Lothian, where Rehman fired three shots, one shattering an upstairs window. The group had conducted reconnaissance earlier, including following Mrs Lothian, and set fire to the Skoda afterwards. The motive remains unknown, causing significant trauma to the victims.

Found guilty of attempted murder and arson after a trial. Judge Andrew Smith KC described him as dangerous and noted that the offence involved a planned attempted murder with a firearm. He had no prior convictions and was on a path of self-destruction due to personal losses, but has since engaged in rehabilitative activities in prison, including mentoring and courses.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

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