Burnley Crown Court Sentencing Results

January 2020 1 case

Gareth Haworth

Assault causing grievous bodily harm *

Sentence

21 months imprisonment, suspended for two years, and 150 hours of unpaid work

Gareth Haworth assaulted James Edwards by striking him with an ornamental garden pebble during a mid-morning attack on September 12, 2018, at flats on Rutland Street, causing a 4 cm wound to the forehead and temple. He shouted threats, including 'get outside I’m going to nail you' and 'open the door or I’ll burn the place down', before banging on the door and attacking when it was opened. While on bail for this offence, on September 7, 2019, he assaulted three police officers by spitting in their faces after being ejected from a bar and arrested for being drunk and disorderly. He also urinated on a police cell floor and blocked a toilet with an anti-ligature suit, causing damage.

Pleaded guilty. Has 26 previous convictions. Expressed remorse and has a mental health disorder. Judge warned that any breach of the order or new offence would result in immediate custody.

3 Jan 2020

December 2019 3 cases

Alexander Evans

Robbery *

Sentence

30 months imprisonment

Alexander Evans, 20, of Commercial Street, Oswaldtwistle, confronted a 23-year-old support worker at a house in Oswaldtwistle on August 11 around 6pm. He attempted to intimidate her outside the property, threw a fire extinguisher at her, followed her into the kitchen, pinned her against the fridge, held a screwdriver to her neck, and threatened to slice her up and rape her if she did not hand over her mobile phone. The victim, feeling petrified, gave him the phone and fled barefoot, seeking help from a member of the public. Evans was later arrested at his home.

Pleaded guilty to robbery. Despite recommendations from doctors and the probation service for a non-custodial sentence, Judge Sara Dodd classed him as a dangerous offender and noted his volatility, history of violence, and that only immediate imprisonment could address the risks.

27 Dec 2019

Stephen Borsellotti

Making indecent images of children *

Sentence

Two-year community order with a 40-day rehabilitation activity requirement, a two-month curfew, ordered to sign the sex offenders register for five years, and a five-year sexual harm prevention order

Stephen Borsellotti downloaded indecent images of children, including category A images showing victims as young as eight or nine years old in pain and distress, after joining a social media group chat on the Kik Messenger app. Police conducted an intel visit to his home on Church Street in September 2018 following information about potential sharing of indecent images on Tumblr, and recovered the images from his mobile phone. He admitted to clicking on a shared link and that his partner had previously destroyed his phone after discovering similar images in 2014.

Pleaded guilty to three counts of making indecent images of children. Expressed remorse and shame, had taxi licence revoked. Judge noted his long-standing sexual interest in children and that he has taken steps to address his behaviour.

17 Dec 2019

Thomas Nichols

Rape *

Sentence

13 years imprisonment and an extended 5 years on licence

Thomas Nichols targeted vulnerable drunk women in Hyndburn. In the first incident, he met the victim early in the morning while she was having a cigarette, took her and her friend to his shed, and later to her home where he raped her while she was asleep and affected by alcohol. In the second incident, he met another victim at a bar in Accrington, took her to his shed, and raped her despite her attempts to push him away and express that she was married and unwilling. Both attacks occurred in the early hours and involved manipulation and control.

Pleaded not guilty but was unanimously found guilty by a jury after a five-day trial. Classed as a dangerous offender. Judge Sara Dodd noted his predatory behaviour, arrogance, and that he showed no insight into his offending.

11 Dec 2019

November 2019 3 cases

Saif Sheraz

Affray *

Sentence

40 months imprisonment

Saif Sheraz, a paranoid drug addict, confronted and threatened window cleaner Paul Murphy with a large machete on Lodge Street in Accrington on November 7, 2018, after a verbal exchange, while under the influence of drugs. He waved the machete and shouted threats before fleeing. Upon arrest, he was found with 30 wraps of heroin and 31 wraps of crack cocaine worth over £600. Additionally, on July 3, 2019, he was caught drug dealing in Accrington, discarding 175 wraps of heroin and crack cocaine worth more than £1,000, and £175 in cash was seized.

Pleaded guilty to possessing heroin and crack cocaine with intent to supply, affray, having a machete, and concealing criminal property. No prior convictions; drug addiction and debts led to involvement in drug dealing.

18 Nov 2019

Liam Andrew Fishwick

Actual Bodily Harm *

Sentence

12 months imprisonment

Liam Andrew Fishwick, a former soldier who served in the army from 2007 to 2011 and was deployed to Afghanistan, repeatedly punched his pregnant partner about six times to her face or ear and made unpleasant threats towards her and a neighbour on July 31. The incident escalated onto the public street outside the Tinker and Budget pub in Oswaldtwistle, where he grabbed her, threw or pushed her against a wall, causing her to fall and bleed profusely. At the time, he was awaiting sentence for another assault and was subject to a suspended sentence for a previous ABH conviction against a former partner.

Pleaded guilty to an offence that incorporated an earlier assault and Actual Bodily Harm (ABH). Suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after military service and alcohol dependency. Expressed genuine remorse and had sought help, but failed to complete a required programme as part of a previous suspended sentence.

17 Nov 2019

Christopher Andrew Jolley

Robbery *

Sentence

five-and-a-half years imprisonment

Christopher Andrew Jolley, 26, of Longfield, Penwortham, robbed a 14-year-old boy and his 19-year-old friend at knifepoint in a semi-derelict house in Accrington around 4.30am. Intoxicated by drugs and alcohol, he forced the teenager to strip to his underwear to search for a cigarette lighter, waved and stabbed a curved knife into a wall, punched the 19-year-old, and caused a gash to the 14-year-old's jaw requiring 20 stitches. He took their belongings and gave the accompanying 13-year-old girl £5 for a taxi. The incident stemmed from an attempt to sell pills.

Pleaded guilty to two robberies. No history of violence or knife possession prior to this incident. Substance abuse issues exacerbated by grief from multiple bereavements. Judge ruled against classifying as dangerous offender.

4 Nov 2019

October 2019 7 cases

Jamie Mcphee

Burglary *

Sentence

34 months imprisonment

Jamie McPhee, 35, of River Hill, Worcester Park, Surrey, engaged in an abusive relationship with his ex-partner starting in 2017, involving verbal abuse, racial slurs, physical violence including pushing, throwing objects, slamming doors, and strangling her on the sofa. After the relationship ended in December 2018, he continued harassing her with threatening calls and texts from London, including threats to ruin her life, rip off her toenails, and throw acid in her face. On May 1, 2019, he travelled to Accrington, smashed the rear kitchen window of her home on Elizabeth Street, sprayed expandable foam over furniture and belongings, poured white spirit and paint stripper in bedrooms, and left a rounders bat in the kitchen. He was arrested at Oswaldtwistle Mills with a craft knife, admitting to smashing the house and stealing £1,000, and threatening to torch her parents' house. His behaviour was influenced by a cocaine habit causing paranoia; his brother William warned police of his fixation and threats.

Pleaded guilty to burglary, harassment, criminal damage and having a bladed article. Given a three-year restraining order with conditions not to enter Hyndburn. Defence noted it was a day of heightened emotional anxiety, out of character due to paranoia and cocaine misuse in a toxic relationship.

23 Oct 2019

Isa Akhtar

Grievous Bodily Harm *

Sentence

18-month jail sentence, suspended for 18 months with a nine-month alcohol treatment requirement and a 30-day rehabilitation activity requirement

Isa Akhtar, then 17, was chilling out with friends including victim Haidar Ali Hussain on the Black Path near Tesco and Accrington train station on July 7, 2018. During a drunken altercation prompted by a suggestion to fight, Akhtar stabbed Hussain in the chest and stomach with a knife, causing two superficial wounds. Hussain ran away shouting he was bleeding and sought help at Tesco, later treated at Blackpool A&E for wounds and breathing difficulties, expected to fully recover. Akhtar and Hussain had a history of playful fights. After the incident, Akhtar admitted stabbing his friend, cried, and expressed suicidal thoughts. Background includes hearing, sight, and eczema issues leading to bullying, exacerbated by alcohol.

Pleaded guilty to GBH and possessing an offensive weapon. Early guilty plea, remorse shown, age 18 considered. Judge noted defendant was horrified by actions.

22 Oct 2019

Fraser Robertson

Robbery *

Sentence

3 years imprisonment

Fraser Robertson, 26, and Oliver Taylor, 29, wearing balaclavas and dark clothing, approached Lisa Walmsley from a nearby alleyway as she arrived home to Alexandra Close in Clayton-le-Moors at 7pm on May 9, 2018. Robertson, the taller one, stopped her from closing the van door, reached in, grabbed the strap of her handbag, and pulled hard, dragging her along the seat until she let go or the strap snapped. The handbag contained an iPhone, e-cigarette, spare keys, passport, driving licence, bank cards, and £190 cash. The incident occurred in front of her young son. They fled through house gardens, hid in a shed at Sparth House hotel, discarding incriminating apparel. Tracked by police dog Rhyker and arrested. Originally charged with possessing an imitation firearm, but allegation not pursued as no object was used or displayed.

Pleaded guilty to robbery on the day of trial. Addicted to amphetamines at the time, genuinely remorseful, dad-of-one, on remand since August 2019.

18 Oct 2019

Oliver Taylor

Robbery *

Sentence

3 years imprisonment

Fraser Robertson, 26, and Oliver Taylor, 29, wearing balaclavas and dark clothing, approached Lisa Walmsley from a nearby alleyway as she arrived home to Alexandra Close in Clayton-le-Moors at 7pm on May 9, 2018. Robertson, the taller one, stopped her from closing the van door, reached in, grabbed the strap of her handbag, and pulled hard, dragging her along the seat until she let go or the strap snapped. The handbag contained an iPhone, e-cigarette, spare keys, passport, driving licence, bank cards, and £190 cash. The incident occurred in front of her young son. They fled through house gardens, hid in a shed at Sparth House hotel, discarding incriminating apparel. Tracked by police dog Rhyker and arrested. Originally charged with possessing an imitation firearm, but allegation not pursued as no object was used or displayed.

Pleaded guilty to robbery on the day of trial. Changed person with improved health and well-being, unenviable record but no prior violence or public order offences, offence out of character.

18 Oct 2019

Abdul Kazi

Sexual assault *

Sentence

12-month prison sentence, suspended for 18 months with a 30-day rehabilitation activity requirement and a six-month curfew

Abdul Kazi, 66, of Water Street, Accrington, sexually assaulted three teenage girls on buses over 18 months. He sat behind victims and touched or stroked their waists, arms, breasts, shoulders, and hair. Incidents captured on CCTV; he was identified via police appeal. Victims reported feeling anxious, violated, and scared to use buses. One victim photographed him after moving seats.

Unanimously found guilty by a jury on five counts of sexual assault after denying the charges. Lost his market lease and shamed in the community and mosque. Made subject to a 10-year sexual harm prevention order and ordered to sign the sex offenders register. Defence highlighted his age (66), previous good character, and that offences were opportunistic.

17 Oct 2019

Stuart Smith

Fraud and Burglary *

Sentence

7 years imprisonment

Stuart Smith, a 48-year-old bogus roofer from Whalley Road, Accrington, deliberately targeted a 92-year-old vulnerable woman in Accrington. On March 13, 2019, he attended her home claiming urgent roof repairs were needed, agreeing on a price but requesting cash payment. Lacking cash, she entrusted him with her bank cards and PIN numbers. He then withdrew hundreds of pounds from various banks in Accrington town centre. On March 26, 2019, at around 10am, he burgled her home, entering through the front door wearing a dark hat, blue coat, dark trousers, and trainers, stealing her purse. He subsequently withdrew more money (£100 and £200) from cash machines and used the cards to top up his mobile phone, totaling over £1,150 stolen. A neighbour identified him from CCTV footage. He has previous similar convictions for targeting elderly women in Hyndburn. The victim stated the incident left her a nervous wreck, constantly on edge, and destroyed her peace of mind.

Pleaded guilty to eight counts of fraud. Found guilty of burglary after a seven-day trial. Judge noted it was one of the meanest offences possible and highlighted similarity to previous convictions for targeting vulnerable elderly people. Defendant reacted to sentence saying 'Wow. What an absolute joke'.

11 Oct 2019

Lee Damian Dawson

Breach of restraining order *

Sentence

15-month conditional discharge and 40 hours unpaid work

Lee Damian Dawson, 44, of Stephen Street, Blackburn, was found at his victim's home on Ambleside Close in Huncoat on July 2, 2019, after resuming their relationship without applying to rescind the restraining order. The original offense in January 2019 involved grabbing his partner by the throat, repeatedly punching her, accusing her of infidelity, taking her phones, and preventing her from leaving her Huncoat home.

Pleaded guilty to breaching a restraining order. Judge slammed him and his partner for flagrantly breaching the order and deceiving the probation service. Complied well with probation, stopped drinking, and is setting up a new business.

9 Oct 2019

September 2019 3 cases

Christopher Ankers

Burglary and ABH *

Sentence

5 years and 4 months imprisonment

Christopher Ankers, 43, from Accrington, broke into Iain Chadwick's bungalow on Queensborough Road in Accrington through the kitchen window at around 3am. He approached the victim's bedroom, leading to a confrontation where Ankers headbutted Mr Chadwick, knocking out his front top tooth, and threatened to kill him unless he handed over money. Mr Chadwick defended himself with a bayonet in a scabbard, striking Ankers and pushing him off. A scuffle ensued in the hallway, and Mr Chadwick eventually threw Ankers out empty-handed. Ankers was arrested the next day after being identified by blood left on a hallway mirror. He was disguised with a hood and intruded into the victim's bedroom while he was asleep.

Pleaded guilty to burglary and ABH. Has 34 convictions for 86 offences, including 23 previous house burglaries. Was on licence at the time. Judge noted it was his 24th domestic burglary and a dreadfully serious offence.

13 Sep 2019

David Lowe

Possession of a knife in a public place *

Sentence

12 months in jail

On July 24, 2019, David Lowe, 29, of no fixed address but previously from Huncoat, called police from a public telephone on Paxton Street, Accrington, claiming he possessed a machete in an attempt to get himself imprisoned for structure and routine. Police found him with a seven-inch carving knife instead. He made full admissions and pleaded guilty at the first opportunity. He hoped to relocate to Manchester with charity help to avoid negative influences.

Pleaded guilty to possession of a knife in a public place. In breach of release licence from previous eight-month sentence. Has 10 previous convictions for 14 offences, including similar offences. Alcoholic, drug abuser, mental health problems. Expressed remorse and desire for prison routine. Judge noted serious aggravating features.

5 Sep 2019

Sky Stamp

Assault causing actual bodily harm *

Sentence

18-month community order with 30 days rehabilitation and 6 weeks curfew

Sky Stamp, 18, of Glebe Street, Great Harwood, threw a pint glass at Glenda Walsh, her partner's mother, at the Roebuck Inn in Rishton on May 17, 2019, after being confronted and lunged at during a pub row. The reckless act, accepted as not deliberate due to provocation, caused a serious cut above Mrs Walsh's right eye requiring six stitches, a permanent scar, anxiety, insomnia, and three weeks off work.

Pleaded guilty to assault causing actual bodily harm. No previous convictions. Lost job in care sector. Low risk of reoffending. Defence noted extreme remorse and out-of-character act due to provocation.

5 Sep 2019

August 2019 1 case

Alexander Cryne

Attempted robbery *

Sentence

2 years and 8 months imprisonment

On June 8, 2019, Alexander Cryne, aged 39, consumed a bottle of vodka with Red Bull at his father's house before walking to the Coral bookmakers on Queen Street in Great Harwood armed with a plastic bag and a curved edge 10-inch knife. Wearing sunglasses and a hoodie, he approached manager Graham Holden at the counter and demanded money while holding the knife. The manager pressed the panic alarm, causing customers to flee. Cryne left empty-handed after the manager refused. He returned to his father's home and handed himself in to police nearly three weeks later, giving full admissions. The incident was described as a 'cry for help' amid personal struggles including separation from his partner of 17 years, family members diagnosed with cancer, and recent job loss as a fire engineer.

Pleaded guilty to attempted robbery and possessing a knife. Judge noted he had reached a low point in life but was generally a hard-working man with a family. Expressed genuine remorse and vowed not to drink again.

2 Aug 2019

July 2019 2 cases

Kevin King Yates

Burglary *

Sentence

7 years imprisonment

Kevin King Yates, 25, of Comrie Crescent, Burnley, carried out a three-month spree of burglaries between November 9, 2018, and January 25, 2019, targeting more than 50 properties in affluent parts of East Lancashire including Whalley, Colne, Higham, Barnoldswick, Simonstone, Read, Fence, and Accrington. He smashed windows with stones or bricks to enter homes, often at night and sometimes while occupiers were asleep, stealing car keys and high-value vehicles such as Audis, Mercedes, and Volkswagens worth £500,000 in total. He was paid up to £1,500 per vehicle and also took watches, computer equipment, jewellery, and mountain bikes. Around 60% of East Lancashire burglaries in this period were linked to him. He was tracked to the Hilton Hotel in Blackpool after a wanted appeal and arrested violently, with a knuckleduster and wrapped mobile phone seized. In one incident, he stole an Audi and MacBook from a Whalley home and was traced via Apple to Padiham. Another targeted a 71-year-old man in Accrington living with his disabled wife, cutting a perfect circle in the window to steal an Audi. Stolen vehicles were used in further crimes under false plates. Yates admitted in interview to burgling for cars and valuables, often with others but as the intruder.

Pleaded guilty to five burglaries and three car thefts; asked for 51 other offences to be taken into consideration. Has 34 prior convictions for 66 offences. Judge noted the offences targeted affluent areas at night, sometimes with occupiers present, causing anxiety and fear.

11 Jul 2019

Haben Mihretab

Voyeurism *

Sentence

20 weeks custody

Haben Mihretab hid in the middle cubicle of the women's toilets at Tesco in Accrington for 37 minutes, peering over twice to watch a teenage girl victim. The toilets were used by 18 women and three children during this time. He fled the store, was confronted by the victim and her boyfriend outside Wilko's, begged for forgiveness, got on his knees, and asked to be punched. He followed the victim for 10 minutes, causing further distress. Recognized from prior voyeurism incidents in Wigan and Blackburn. CCTV evidence confirmed his presence.

Pleaded guilty to voyeurism. Fifth conviction for similar offenses. Indefinite sexual harm prevention order prohibiting entry to female toilets. Asylum seeker from Eritrea with difficult upbringing.

5 Jul 2019

June 2019 4 cases

Mohammed Shazad Akram

GBH *

Sentence

15-month jail term, suspended for two years with an eight-month curfew and 240 hours unpaid work

On March 6, 2018, at around 5.30pm on Blackburn Road in Accrington, Mohammed Shazad Akram, 28, of Union Road, Oswaldtwistle, punched his neighbour Shahed Mahmood once to the face during an argument over parking. The incident occurred after Mahmood attended Akram's home and made a hurtful comment about Akram's deceased brother. Akram believed Mahmood was moving towards him and struck him, causing Mahmood to keel over and hit his head on the pavement, resulting in a traumatic brain haemorrhage, multiple skull fractures, and life-changing injuries requiring life support, surgery to remove parts of his skull, and ongoing medication.

Pleaded guilty to GBH on the day of trial. No previous convictions. Ordered to pay £2,500 compensation to the victim. Judge noted it was not pre-meditated and the defendant was mortified by his actions.

28 Jun 2019

Daniel Kirk Harwood

Public order offence *

Sentence

15-month community order with a 20-day rehabilitation activity requirement, 60 hours unpaid work and a two-year restraining order

Daniel Kirk Harwood, 28, got into a confrontation with victim Damien Landsberger inside Baggys Wine Bar in Great Harwood before punching him to the face. The incident escalated into a larger brawl involving co-defendant Lewis Cameron Hester, who struck the victim forcefully, causing him to fall. When Mr Landsberger left the pub, Harwood punched him again, and Hester delivered a massive blow to his face, resulting in a broken jaw that required wiring and four plates fitted. Harwood claimed self-defence in his police interview.

Pleaded guilty to a public order offence. Has 12 convictions for 21 offences, including affrays, burglary and dangerous driving. Judge Sara Dodd commented that his behaviour was entirely unacceptable and instigated by himself.

18 Jun 2019

Mark Parkinson

Robbery *

Sentence

2 years imprisonment

Mark Parkinson, 32, of Hesketh Street, Great Harwood, produced a large kitchen knife during an attempt to steal 12 cans of beer from the Nisa Convenience Store on Blackburn Road in Great Harwood. He was recognised by staff from a previous shoplifting incident. When approached by worker Lisa Eccles, he held up the knife, causing her to flee in fear. As he left the store, he shouted threats to 'cut you up and stab you both' to two staff members. The incident occurred prior to June 14, 2019.

Pleaded guilty to robbery and possessing a knife in a public place. Defence stated it was a shoplifting incident gone wrong, out of character due to alcohol relapse after relationship break-up. Spent four months on remand.

14 Jun 2019

Anthony Reeves

Grievous Bodily Harm *

Sentence

27 months imprisonment

Anthony Reeves, 49, a homeless drug user, repeatedly stabbed Lee Thompson at his home on Wellington Street in Accrington on March 23, 2017, after Thompson offered him shelter. The incident occurred around 5am following drinking and amphetamine use the previous night. Thompson suspected an affair between Reeves and his girlfriend Kelsie Walker, leading to a heated argument. During the altercation, Reeves used a 10-inch kitchen knife to stab Thompson in the head, left shoulder, chest, and side, fracturing his breastbone and causing wounds to his arm and index finger. Thompson initially thought he was going to die and later told police he inflicted the injuries himself, but Reeves admitted responsibility.

Pleaded guilty to GBH following an aborted trial. Defence claimed excessive self-defence, rejected by Recorder Tom Gilbart. Has mental health issues but made significant progress since incident and no longer uses drugs.

3 Jun 2019

May 2019 2 cases

Paul Mark Lomax

Common assault *

Sentence

20 weeks imprisonment

Paul Mark Lomax, 39, of Blackburn Road, Accrington, burst into Kevin Austin’s home on Stratford Way in Accrington on December 1, 2018, and was shocked to see his ex-partner sat on the sofa. His shock turned to anger and he picked up a wine bottle from the floor before smashing it over her head without any warning. He then punched her twice to the head leaving a lump, picked up Mr Austin’s house and car keys, walked back and punched her once more, and threatened to burn the house down if she was still there when he returned. He had received a five-year restraining order against his ex-partner in February 2017 with conditions not to approach her.

Pleaded guilty to breaching the restraining order, common assault and theft. Has 66 convictions for 131 offences including violence and burglaries. Was recalled on licence for a previous 20-month burglary sentence. Grieving the loss of his sister and had slid back into substance misuse. Apologises and recognises the impact of his actions.

10 May 2019

John Carroll

Attempted robbery *

Sentence

4 years imprisonment with extended 2 years on licence

On February 6, 2019, John Carroll, under the influence of a significant amount of drugs, attempted to rob Matthew Taylor, an employee at the McDonald's restaurant on Hyndburn Road, Accrington. Wearing a scarf and hoodie, Carroll grabbed Taylor by the shoulder, held a hammer to his head, and demanded money while pushing him towards the tills. Two cleaning staff witnessed the incident, chased Carroll outside, tackled him to the ground, and seized the hammer. They flagged down police, who arrested Carroll and recovered a Stanley knife, a chisel, and a pillow case from him. The shift manager had alerted staff to flee and sought help. Taylor reported feeling shocked, scared, and more paranoid about work.

Classed as a dangerous offender. Pleaded guilty to attempted robbery, possessing an offensive weapon and having an article with a blade or point. Has 27 previous convictions for 51 offences. Long-standing heroin addiction since teenager. Expressed remorse and needs intervention for drug addiction.

9 May 2019

April 2019 1 case

Charlie John David Hope

Burglary *

Sentence

54 months imprisonment

Charlie John David Hope, 22, of Wilfred Street, Accrington, targeted four homes in Accrington and Huncoat over a six-week period in 2018, stealing jewellery, cash, a games console, two cars (Ford Fiesta and Ford Kuga), sunglasses, a watch, handbag, money, and electrical items. The spree began on June 14, 2018, at Hudson Street, Accrington, where he took electrical items, jewellery, and keys to a Ford Fiesta, which he stole. On June 26, 2018, at Foxwood Chase, Huncoat, he stole a wallet, cash, sunglasses, and keys to a Ford Kuga, which he also stole. On July 4, 2018, at Lodge Street, Accrington, he took a watch, handbag, and money. On July 31, 2018, at Manchester Road, Accrington, he stole a games console and keys to a Golf, which he used in a burglary at Fife Street, Accrington (taken into consideration). After being bailed, he burgled another property in Accrington on August 30, 2018, stealing hundreds of pounds worth of computer equipment. The offences were committed after taking drugs and falling into debt following a relationship breakdown and the death of his uncle.

Pleaded guilty to five counts of burglary and three counts of theft; asked for a sixth burglary to be taken into consideration. Pre-sentence report noted he was easily led, emotionally immature, and diagnosed with ADHD. Judge Sara Dodd commented on the seriousness of the offences, noting violations of victims' security including a disabled man and a young mother with a three-year-old child.

10 Apr 2019

March 2019 10 cases

Mark Anthony Nicholson

Attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child *

Sentence

18 months imprisonment

Mark Anthony Nicholson engaged in graphic sex chat with a volunteer posing as a 12-year-old schoolgirl called ‘Gabby’ over social media, starting on August 29, 2018. During video conversations, he said he was wearing girls' knickers and a bra, told of his fantasies, called her a ‘pretty little stunner’, and offered to pay £20 for her knickers. He graphically explained what he would like to do to her. A sting operation was carried out by the paedophile hunter group Fleetwood Enforcers on September 6, 2018, leading to his arrest.

Pleaded guilty. Ordered to sign the sex offenders register and made subject to a sexual harm prevention order for 10 years. Judge commented that his actions were repulsive, wholly inappropriate, illegal and shameful, and that he committed the offence because of an unhealthy interest in young girls. Prior convictions for indecent exposure in the 1990s and jailed in 2012 for breaching a non-molestation order. Concerns about mental health and prolific drug use.

27 Mar 2019

Aqib Baig

Supplying class A drugs *

Sentence

28 months imprisonment

Aqib Baig, 20, of York Street, Church, was caught twice supplying crack cocaine and heroin to fund his own drug addiction. On June 11, 2018, in Accrington, he was seen acting suspiciously with two other males and fled upon spotting an unmarked police car, throwing a package containing class A drugs under a nearby car. On September 6, 2018, on Henry Street in Church, police blocked his Volkswagen Golf and recovered £95 cash, a mobile phone with drug-related messages, and a mint tin with more heroin and crack cocaine. The total value of the seized class A drugs was £750. Baig, a car wash worker who became involved in drugs due to unemployment and bad company, started with cannabis before progressing to class A drugs.

Pleaded guilty at the first opportunity to four counts of supplying class A drugs. No previous convictions. Judge noted loss of good character for helping drug dealer. Family expressed shame and regret.

21 Mar 2019

Adeeb Mirza

Affray *

Sentence

13-month jail sentence suspended for 18 months with 30-day rehabilitation activity requirement

Adeeb Mirza, along with Saffeullah Mirza and Hmaad Bashir, launched a revenge attack on Zain Al Ubedin and his wife Naheed Zain at a Texaco garage in Nelson on January 1, 2018. They used their hire car to block the victims and began a sustained assault, witnessed by frightened members of the public. The attack stemmed from family shame over Mrs Zain's relationship with the younger Mr Al Ubedin after her 2013 divorce. The victims had recently moved into a new house in Nelson as a married couple.

Pleaded guilty to affray. Judge noted considerable provocation but unacceptable reaction. Out of trouble for nearly seven years.

20 Mar 2019

Hmaad Bashir

Affray *

Sentence

13-month jail sentence suspended for 18 months with 30-day rehabilitation activity requirement

Hmaad Bashir, along with Adeeb Mirza and Saffeullah Mirza, launched a revenge attack on Zain Al Ubedin and his wife Naheed Zain at a Texaco garage in Nelson on January 1, 2018. They used their hire car to block the victims and began a sustained assault, witnessed by frightened members of the public. The attack stemmed from family shame over Mrs Zain's relationship with the younger Mr Al Ubedin after her 2013 divorce. The victims had recently moved into a new house in Nelson as a married couple.

Pleaded guilty to affray. Unable to control emotions, acted on impulse fueled by desire for revenge after feeling provoked for a long time.

20 Mar 2019

Saffeullah Bashir

Affray *

Sentence

18-month community order with 100 hours unpaid work and six-month curfew

Saffeullah Bashir, along with Adeeb Mirza and Hmaad Bashir, launched a revenge attack on Zain Al Ubedin and his wife Naheed Zain at a Texaco garage in Nelson on January 1, 2018. They used their hire car to block the victims and began a sustained assault, witnessed by frightened members of the public. The attack stemmed from family shame over Mrs Zain's relationship with the younger Mr Al Ubedin after her 2013 divorce. The victims had recently moved into a new house in Nelson as a married couple.

Pleaded guilty to affray. Fast food restaurant worker who acted with impulse and strong desire to exact revenge.

20 Mar 2019

Saffeullah Mirza

Affray *

Sentence

13-month jail sentence suspended for 18 months with 30-day rehabilitation activity requirement

Saffeullah Mirza, along with Adeeb Mirza and Hmaad Bashir, launched a revenge attack on Zain Al Ubedin and his wife Naheed Zain at a Texaco garage in Nelson on January 1, 2018. They used their hire car to block the victims and began a sustained assault, during which Saffeullah removed a glass bottle from the boot and used it as a threatening weapon. The attack stemmed from family shame over Mrs Zain's relationship with the younger Mr Al Ubedin after her 2013 divorce. The victims had recently moved into a new house in Nelson as a married couple.

Pleaded guilty to affray. Judge commented he shouldn't be in court and was only there because of the other two defendants. Highly educated, studying a degree, lost good character.

20 Mar 2019

Lee Thomas Jourey

Racially aggravated assault *

Sentence

14 months imprisonment suspended for 2 years with a nine-month alcohol treatment requirement, 100 hours unpaid work and a six-month curfew

On June 2, 2018, Lee Thomas Jourey, 29, from Stacksteads, was ejected from The Cornerstone pub in Bacup for behaving aggressively towards customers. Police found him extremely drunk on Alma Street and drove him home, warning him not to return. At 3.45am on June 3, he called police threatening to stab landlady Jeanette Stone with a knife at the pub, then made a second call threatening self-harm. Officers found him in Rawtenstall. At the police station, he racially abused an officer, then at Royal Blackburn Hospital, spat at the officer, required restraint, continued racial abuse and threats, and verbally abused a hospital reception worker, calling her a 'fat f****** slag', leaving her feeling degraded and wanting to quit.

Pleaded guilty. Recorder Nicholas Fewtrell described actions as 'appalling and disgusting' and gave him a 'last chance' to avoid jail, noting his alcohol problems and previous convictions for ABH, knife possession, racially aggravated public order, and a suspended sentence for malicious communication.

18 Mar 2019

John Edward Nutter

Making indecent images of children *

Sentence

eight-month jail sentence, suspended for 18 months, with a 40-day rehabilitation activity requirement

John Edward Nutter, a 54-year-old married man from Booth Road, Waterfoot, downloaded 203 indecent images of children between 2014 and 2017, including 13 category A (most serious), 20 category B, and 170 category C images, with the most explicit involving a young girl and a baby. He was caught after Yahoo reported his online activity to the National Centre for Missing and Exploited Children, leading to a National Crime Agency warrant executed at his home in April 2017, where officers seized a laptop, desktop computer, and two mobile phones. Nutter also engaged in explicit and 'peculiar and worrying' sex chats on social media and Skype over a seven-year period, including expressing interest in teenage boys, though he claimed it was pure fantasy. In interview, he admitted the email address was his but denied intentionally viewing the images, stating he clicked off them immediately.

Pleaded guilty to three counts of making indecent images. Given a sexual harm prevention order and ordered to sign the sex offenders register for ten years. Defence stated he is thoroughly ashamed, no distribution or production of images, possibly influenced by low ebb after mother's death and seeking assistance for sexual behaviour issues. Judge noted his 'dirty little secret is no longer' and emphasized that viewing such images contributes to child abuse.

11 Mar 2019

Glynn Derek Threlfall

Breaching a restraining order *

Sentence

8 weeks imprisonment

Glynn Derek Threlfall, 26, of Lina Street, Accrington, breached a two-year restraining order issued in February 2017 after pleading guilty to ABH. The order prohibited him from going within 100m of his former partner's address on Barnes Street in Church. On Boxing Day 2018 at 7.45pm, while drunk, he attended the address to retrieve a mattress, being abusive, aggressive, and shouting. There was no direct contact with the former partner, and no distress reported from her. A dispute existed over mattress ownership. The breach occurred six weeks before the restraining order's end.

Pleaded guilty to breaching a two-year restraining order. Has 20 convictions for 40 previous offences. Was subject to a 12-month conditional discharge for assault and criminal damage against his new partner. Suffers from bipolar disorder and ADHD. Judge noted a 'pretty poor' probation report but acknowledged some effort in attending appointments.

7 Mar 2019

Joanne Mccarthy

Burglary *

Sentence

12-month jail sentence, suspended for two years with a 15-day rehabilitation activity requirement and 200 hours unpaid work

Joanne McCarthy, 37, of Belfield Road, Accrington, was caught on April 20, 2018, at around 8.30pm boxing up over 7,500 Yankee candles worth £30,000 inside Celebrate Gifts on Cannon Street in Accrington. She provided a false name to police, claiming the owner asked her to be there. No forced entry was evident, but shop keys had gone missing a week prior. The office was trashed with drawers emptied and computers removed. A Mercedes Sprinter Van was waiting outside. In her interview, she expressed remorse, stating it was out of character. The burglary was planned, not impulsive, and likely involved accomplices due to the volume and weight of items.

Pleaded guilty to burglary. Diagnosed with depression and anxiety, on waiting list for support from Mind Matters. Judge noted the facts were strange and that others likely involved who escaped.

1 Mar 2019

February 2019 12 cases

George Walker

Child sexual abuse *

Sentence

More than eight years imprisonment

George Walker, a former Lieutenant and Captain in the Army Cadets in Burnley and Haslingden in the 1970s, befriended boys aged as young as 13 and their families, using the opportunity to systematically sexually abuse them. Publicity from his 2017 conviction encouraged four more victims to come forward.

Pleaded guilty to a further 22 offences of child sexual abuse. Sentence runs concurrent to the 2017 sentence of five years and three months.

28 Feb 2019

Stuart Beetham

Affray *

Sentence

three-year community order with a 50-day rehabilitation activity requirement

On October 4, 2018, in the early hours, Stuart Beetham joined Kerry Anne and her friends Stephen Meadowcroft and Christian Katsis who were drinking at a flat on Church Street in Accrington town centre. Perceived as jealous of Kerry Anne's attention to the other men, Beetham became argumentative and was asked to leave. He returned shortly after, pulled a small compact crossbow from his trousers, and pointed it at everyone in the flat, causing genuine fear. After Kerry Anne confronted him, he left, returned apologetic, but armed police were called around 7am, leading to lockdowns and evacuations. Beetham, 34, of Church Street, was arrested later that day at his sister's address in Oswaldtwistle.

Pleaded guilty to affray. Defence highlighted physical and mental health issues needing addressing; generally a law-abiding citizen otherwise. Judge Andrew Woolman noted the frightening nature of the incident, possibly influenced by jealousy after drinking.

26 Feb 2019

Victoria Kelly

Producing cannabis and possessing cannabis with intent to supply *

Sentence

12-month community order with 150 hours unpaid work

Police executed a warrant at Victoria Kelly’s home on School Street in Stacksteads on September 30, 2017, recovering remnants of a cannabis setup upstairs, including 1,450g of cannabis worth £18,000 on the street, a grow tent, transformers, filters, timers, and £2,430 in cash. The electricity meter had been bypassed, and she admitted to tending the plants daily under direction from her then partner.

Pleaded guilty. Involved through naivety and exploitation by then partner, who ended the relationship. No prior convictions. Described as lonely and isolated.

24 Feb 2019

Imtiaz Hussain

Drug dealing and possession of firearm *

Sentence

4.5 years imprisonment

Imtiaz Hussain hid a shotgun in a kennel and drugs in a recycling tub as part of his drug dealing activities. He was caught by police and sentenced accordingly.

Drug dealer who hid shotgun in kennel and drugs in recycling tub.

24 Feb 2019

Connor Dewhurst

Burglary *

Sentence

Not stated

Connor Dewhurst, along with Daniel Beardsworth and David Cairney, committed a string of burglaries as part of a gang.

Part of burglary gang jailed for total of ten years for string of crimes.

24 Feb 2019

David Cairney

Burglary *

Sentence

Not stated

David Cairney, along with Daniel Beardsworth and Connor Dewhurst, committed a string of burglaries as part of a gang.

Part of burglary gang jailed for total of ten years for string of crimes.

24 Feb 2019

David Hindson

Robbery *

Sentence

11 years imprisonment

David Hindson, from Accrington, robbed an alcoholic man on a secluded path using a knife. The victim was targeted in a vulnerable state.

Classed as a 'dangerous offender'.

24 Feb 2019

Daniel Beardsworth

Burglary *

Sentence

Not stated

Daniel Beardsworth, along with Connor Dewhurst and David Cairney, committed a string of burglaries as part of a gang.

Part of burglary gang jailed for total of ten years for string of crimes.

24 Feb 2019

John Ward

Conspiracy to commit burglary *

Sentence

3 years and 9 months imprisonment

On 26 May 2018, a group of travellers, including John Ward, gained access to the Thwaites Brewery site on Penny Street, Blackburn, and set up an encampment. They refused to leave despite requests, evicted a security guard, and the group looted office buildings, stealing televisions, computer equipment, high-value alcohol, and electrical copper wiring, causing over £300,000 in damage including smashed windows, damaged furniture, flooding, and contamination leading to the site's closure.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit burglary and conspiracy to commit criminal damage.

21 Feb 2019

Thomas Ward

Conspiracy to commit burglary *

Sentence

4 years and 3 months imprisonment

On 26 May 2018, a group of travellers, led by Thomas Ward, gained access to the Thwaites Brewery site on Penny Street, Blackburn, and set up an encampment. They refused to leave despite requests, evicted a security guard, and Thomas Ward, referring to himself as 'Big John' and 'Big Dave', attempted to blackmail Thwaites employees by demanding £20,000. The group looted office buildings, stealing televisions, computer equipment, high-value alcohol, and electrical copper wiring, causing over £300,000 in damage including smashed windows, damaged furniture, flooding, and contamination leading to the site's closure.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit burglary, conspiracy to commit criminal damage and blackmail.

21 Feb 2019

John Fennell

Burglary *

Sentence

40 months imprisonment

John Fennell, 24, from Oswaldtwistle, along with an unknown accomplice, committed two burglaries on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day 2018-2019. First, they smashed through a patio door at a luxury home on Clough Lane in Simonstone, disabled the alarm, ransacked the property including two children's bedrooms, and stole dozens of sentimental items worth over £62,000, including an Audi TT. Fennell left a Christmas jumper under the owner's pillow as a calling sign, and one offender made a middle finger gesture to CCTV. Second, in the early hours of New Year's Day, he broke into another family home on Ward Way in Rawtenstall while the family was at a party. He was arrested after a short chase with public assistance.

Pleaded guilty to burglary and burglary with intent to steal. On licence from previous 34-month sentence for handling stolen goods. Prior convictions for dangerous driving and supplying cannabis. Judge commented on the despicable nature of the offences, noting the calling sign jumper and defiant gesture. Defence highlighted strained relationship, drug abuse, and early guilty pleas; most property recovered with defendant's help.

14 Feb 2019

Abrar Hussain

Wounding with intent to cause GBH *

Sentence

13 years imprisonment

Abrar Hussain, 35, of Ross Street, Brierfield, attacked Ishtiaq Ahmed with a metal baseball bat up to 15 times on January 12, 2018, in Brierfield, shattering the victim's elbow which required a metal plate and left a 10-inch scar, and causing severe bruising to the torso, legs, and thighs. The victim, a dad-of-two, was left traumatised and feared for his life. Hussain then tracked down Mr Ahmed to his father's home in Rawtenstall on Burnley Road and threatened him and his family to withdraw his police statement.

Found guilty after a six-day trial. Given an indefinite restraining order. Judge Jeffries QC noted it was a sustained attack and emphasized protecting witnesses from threats.

10 Feb 2019

October 2018 1 case

Paul Williams

Theft *

Sentence

12-month community order with 120 hours unpaid work and 12-week curfew

Paul Williams, a bar manager at the Warner Arms pub in Accrington town centre, stole £3,500 from the safe on March 4, 2018, after becoming annoyed that the job did not include proper accommodation as expected, forcing him to sleep on the floor. He took the money primarily to pay off gambling debts accrued since age 16, which became problematic from 2012, and partly out of revenge. He denied the theft initially but later accepted sole responsibility. Williams, of Chorley Road, Swinton, has sought help for his addiction and not gambled since May 2018. He now works with his wife at another pub.

Pleaded guilty to theft. Ordered to pay £3,500 compensation. Gambling addiction and feelings of revenge cited as motives. Judge noted breach of trust but offence out of character.

5 Oct 2018

Gareth Haworth

Alexander Evans

Stephen Borsellotti

Thomas Nichols

Saif Sheraz

Liam Andrew Fishwick

Christopher Andrew Jolley

Jamie Mcphee

Isa Akhtar

Fraser Robertson

Oliver Taylor

Abdul Kazi

Stuart Smith

Lee Damian Dawson

Christopher Ankers

David Lowe

Sky Stamp

Alexander Cryne

Kevin King Yates

Haben Mihretab

Mohammed Shazad Akram

Daniel Kirk Harwood

Mark Parkinson

Anthony Reeves

Paul Mark Lomax

John Carroll

Charlie John David Hope

Mark Anthony Nicholson

Aqib Baig

Adeeb Mirza

Hmaad Bashir

Saffeullah Bashir

Saffeullah Mirza

Lee Thomas Jourey

John Edward Nutter

Glynn Derek Threlfall

Joanne Mccarthy

George Walker

Stuart Beetham

Victoria Kelly

Imtiaz Hussain

Connor Dewhurst

David Cairney

David Hindson

Daniel Beardsworth

John Ward

Thomas Ward

John Fennell

Abrar Hussain

Paul Williams

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