Chester Crown Court Sentencing Results

Explore 442 verdicts at Chester Crown Court (Chester). Updated with the latest court outcomes.

August 2024 4 cases

Daniel Wollaston

Arson with reckless endangerment to life *

Sentence

3 years imprisonment with 3 years on licence, and 10 months concurrent for perverting the course of justice

On December 14, 2024, Daniel Wollaston started a fire by setting curtains alight in a bedroom at a block of flats in Nantwich, Cheshire, with reckless endangerment to life, leading to the evacuation of residents from 12 homes. He and Charlotte Wollaston attempted to blame a child for the incident, telling officers the child used a lighter. The child later disclosed that Daniel was responsible, and further enquiries revealed their attempts to pervert the course of justice.

Pleaded not guilty initially. Actions described as deplorable by Detective Constable Joseph Scott, who noted he showed no concern or remorse and tried to use a child as a scapegoat.

8 Aug 2024

Alec Cosgrove

Supply of heroin and cocaine *

Sentence

3 years and 9 months imprisonment

Alec Cosgrove was involved in the supply of heroin and cocaine in Macclesfield between March 24 and April 16, 2024. He also possessed with intent to supply crack cocaine and heroin on April 16, 2024. The drugs were ordered for forfeiture and destruction.

Pleaded guilty to four drug offences and was remanded in custody.

1 Aug 2024

Charlie Maher-Burns

Supply of heroin and cocaine *

Sentence

3 years imprisonment

Charlie Maher-Burns was involved in the supply of heroin and cocaine in Macclesfield between January 13 and April 16, 2024. He also possessed with intent to supply crack cocaine and heroin on April 16, 2024. The drugs were ordered for forfeiture and destruction.

Pleaded guilty to four drug offences and was remanded in custody. Ordered to pay £228 victim surcharge.

1 Aug 2024

Gary Edwards

Harassment *

Sentence

5.5 years imprisonment

Gary Edwards harassed his ex-partner over several years, starting from 2017, including physical assaults such as grabbing her by the throat, punching, kicking, destroying possessions, and locking her out of the home, including an incident where he shut her in the garage while heavily pregnant. He sent abusive messages demanding money and threatening violence between 2017 and 2021. In October 2022, he approached the victim's home in Ellesmere Port, verbally abused her and her new partner, and threatened to blow up the house. Officers found drug paraphernalia at his home, leading to charges for supplying a psychoactive substance.

Pleaded guilty to threats to damage property, harassment, and supplying a psychoactive substance. Indefinite restraining order imposed.

1 Aug 2024

July 2024 7 cases

Gareth Lancaster

Supply of Cocaine *

Sentence

3 years imprisonment

On December 10, 2023, Gareth Lancaster was stopped by police for erratic driving on Himalayan Birch Close in Ellesmere Port. He provided false details, and officers discovered a white plastic bag containing a large amount of snap bags of cannabis, a mobile phone, and 28 Diazepam tablets not prescribed to him. Further enquiries established that he had been selling cannabis and cocaine to multiple customers.

Pleaded guilty to being concerned in supply of cocaine, possession with intent to supply a controlled drug of Class B (Cannabis), and possession with intent to supply a controlled Class C drug (Diazepam) at an earlier hearing. Arrested after erratic driving and found with drugs in the vehicle.

31 Jul 2024

Ruhul Mohammed Shamsuddin

HMO Licence Contraventions *

Sentence

Banned for 3 years

Ruhul Mohammed Shamsuddin, operating via companies including Lordsons Estate Agents, was convicted of multiple offences at two properties in Southend-on-Sea. At 12 Clifftown Road, a terraced house above a food outlet, offences included overcrowding in contravention of HMO licence conditions, failure to display manager details, unsafe third floor balustrade, dangerous flooring in entranceway and stairs, unmaintained fire alarm control, defective fire alarm/detector in first floor hallway, and blocked fire escape. Similar overcrowding and fire risk offences occurred at a second address, leaving inhabitants in unacceptable conditions.

Pleaded not guilty to initial offences but subsequently pleaded guilty to similar offences at a second address. Banning order secured by First Tier Tribunal Property Chamber after conviction for banning order offences. Could face imprisonment and fine up to £30,000 if breached. Applies to England only.

31 Jul 2024

Bradley Neild

Possession with intent to supply Class B cannabis *

Sentence

12 months in prison suspended for 18 months

Bradley Neild, of Kohli Avenue, Winsford, was arrested during a dawn drug raid at his home in December 2024. He was found in possession of cannabis, cannabis edibles, and drug paraphernalia with a street value estimated between £8,000 and £18,000. Further analysis of his mobile phone messages indicated he had been dealing drugs for several years, including offering a delivery service, despite claiming it was only for a few weeks due to debt.

Pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply Class B cannabis. Police investigation revealed he was a well-established dealer involved in supplying cannabis and related products for several years.

22 Jul 2024

Luke Cooper

Grievous bodily harm without intent *

Sentence

16 months imprisonment

On June 19, the victim, a 59-year-old man, was walking in the Morrisons car park in Ellesmere Port when he was nearly hit by a car driven by Luke Cooper. After confronting Cooper about the incident, the victim was punched in the face, causing him to fall and sustain multiple fractures to his cheekbone. Cooper drove away from the scene while shouting obscenities and was later identified and arrested through CCTV footage. He initially claimed self-defence during questioning.

Pleaded guilty to grievous bodily harm without intent. Also received a five-year restraining order.

21 Jul 2024

Sefa Sarikaya

Rape *

Sentence

7 years imprisonment

Sefa Sarikaya forced a woman to have sex and stopped her seeing friends and family over a number of months. He changed the password on her phone to constantly check it, dictated what she should wear and what makeup she could use, forced her to give up employment so she was financially dependent on him, demeaned her, and physically assaulted her. The woman eventually went to the police, but Sarikaya denied the allegations. Following a trial in March, he was found guilty.

Found guilty of three counts of rape, one count of controlling and coercive behaviour, and one count of assault. Found not guilty of two other charges of rape, intentional strangulation, and one count of assault by beating. Will be on the sex offenders register until further order.

19 Jul 2024

Ryan Mchugh

Controlling and coercive behaviour and assault *

Sentence

70 months in prison

Ryan McHugh assaulted his ex-partner in Chester. Cheshire Police received a call in February 2024 about the assault. Officers found the victim with facial injuries including swelling and a black eye. McHugh had hit her with an unopened can of alcohol, pulled her by the hair, punched her, hit her with a whiskey glass, and kneed her forehead. He was verbally abusive, threatened to burn down her house, controlled her phone and social media, and had previously fractured her face. He was arrested and charged.

Pleaded guilty to controlling and coercive behaviour, section 20 assault, and section 18 assault.

5 Jul 2024

Robert Spiers

Possession with intent to supply *

Sentence

3 years imprisonment

Robert Spiers was arrested in Knutsford on April 24, 2024, while in possession of quantities of cocaine and heroin with intent to supply. He pleaded guilty to the charges at an earlier hearing on May 23, 2024.

Pleaded guilty to two charges of possessing cocaine and heroin with intent to supply. Ordered to pay £228 victim surcharge and forfeiture of drugs, mobile phones, 26 nitrous oxide canisters, and a drugs press.

4 Jul 2024

June 2024 13 cases

Daniel Allcock

Sexual activity with a child *

Sentence

6 years imprisonment

Daniel Allcock, a 27-year-old from Crewe, committed multiple sex offences against a 15-year-old girl between December 2023 and April 2024. He contacted the victim, who was 14 at the start, via social media, falsely presenting himself as a 19-year-old. He groomed her, arranged meetings, and engaged in sexual activity with her on several occasions. Concerns were raised by the victim's school and social services, prompting a police investigation. Allcock had a prior history of sexual offences. He was arrested on 18 April 2024.

Pleaded guilty. Also ordered to serve 4 years extended licence, placed on sex offenders register for life, sexual harm prevention order, and restraining order.

28 Jun 2024

James Jackson

Burglary *

Sentence

3 years imprisonment

James Jackson, 38, of no fixed address, conducted a series of burglaries across Brighton starting on February 8, 2024. He smashed into a restaurant in Ship Street, causing extensive damage but stealing nothing reported. On February 13, he forced entry into a bakery in North Road, stealing two electronic tablets and high-value produce. On March 17, he broke into a jewellery shop in Dukes Lane, stealing pieces worth nearly £100,000. On April 1, he targeted a bar in Western Road, smashing a glass panel and stealing an electronic tablet and money. He was arrested on April 10, rearrested and charged shortly after, and found guilty following a trial.

Pleaded guilty to two burglary charges and was found guilty of two more. PC Dan Stockley commented that small businesses were victims and Jackson showed complete disregard for the harm caused to local traders.

27 Jun 2024

Daniel Peters

Sexual assault of a girl under 13 *

Sentence

24 months imprisonment suspended for 2 years, 180 hours unpaid work

As family friend and special constable, sexually assaulted girl under 13 by touching her in his van in layby May 2020 en route to sleepover in Northwich, and again on ride at Gulliver's World theme park same month.

Pleaded guilty to two counts of sexual assault of a girl under 13 by touching.

21 Jun 2024

Denis Puka

Conspiracy to commit burglary *

Sentence

56 months imprisonment

Denis Puka, 28, along with Erisjan Laska and a third unidentified man, conducted a series of burglaries across Cheshire and Lancashire on three successive nights in June 2024. They used a Seat Leon with false registration plates, masks, tools, and walkie-talkies. Targets included seven properties, such as the home of footballer Scott Hogan in Northwich on June 7, where nothing was stolen but the family was disturbed; two addresses in Blackpool on June 5, where one was ransacked but nothing stolen; properties in Grappenhall, Knutsford, and another in Northwich on June 6, from which a Breitling and Rolex watch worth £9,000 were stolen; and a mansion in Warrington on June 7, where they fled after being disturbed. They based themselves in an Airbnb in Warrington. The vehicle was recovered in Warrington with incriminating items inside. Traced via CCTV.

Pleaded guilty to seven counts of conspiracy to commit burglary. No previous convictions. Judge noted the operation was sophisticated and well-planned, causing devastation to victims.

18 Jun 2024

Erisjan Laska

Conspiracy to commit burglary *

Sentence

56 months imprisonment

Erisjan Laska, 29, along with Denis Puka and a third unidentified man, conducted a series of burglaries across Cheshire and Lancashire on three successive nights in June 2024. They used a Seat Leon with false registration plates, masks, tools, and walkie-talkies. Targets included seven properties, such as the home of footballer Scott Hogan in Northwich on June 7, where nothing was stolen but the family was disturbed; two addresses in Blackpool on June 5, where one was ransacked but nothing stolen; properties in Grappenhall, Knutsford, and another in Northwich on June 6, from which a Breitling and Rolex watch worth £9,000 were stolen; and a mansion in Warrington on June 7, where they fled after being disturbed. They based themselves in an Airbnb in Warrington. The vehicle was recovered in Warrington with incriminating items inside. Traced via CCTV.

Pleaded guilty to seven counts of conspiracy to commit burglary. One previous conviction for minor driving offences. Married to a British woman with pending Home Office application, father of two. Judge criticized him for minimising offences and failing to understand the trauma caused.

18 Jun 2024

Giedrius Arcisauskas

Sexual Assault *

Sentence

13 years imprisonment and 1 year on licence

On February 27, 2024, at a party in Ellesmere Port, Giedrius Arcisauskas was alone in a bedroom with a girl under 13, where he sexually assaulted her. The victim's mother heard a scream, intervened, and reported the incident to the police. His mobile phone was seized, revealing six indecent images of children, leading to additional charges.

Found guilty after a four-day trial. Handed an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order and ordered to sign the sex offenders register for life. DS Paul Harrison commented on the family's bravery and the devastating impact on the victim and her family.

12 Jun 2024

Francis Constantine

Aggravated Burglary *

Sentence

10 years imprisonment plus an extended three years on licence

In December 2024, Francis Constantine and Jonjo Swaine used a fake Facebook account to lure the victim out of their home in Ellesmere Port while the victim was selling a car seat. Constantine forced entry into the address on Brooklyn Drive, threatened the victim's 13-year-old daughter with a knife, stating he would 'knock her out' if she came closer, and participated in the theft of a motocross bike before fleeing to Liverpool.

Pleaded guilty to aggravated burglary. Aged 27, of no fixed abode.

9 Jun 2024

Jonjo Swaine

Burglary *

Sentence

30 months imprisonment

In December 2024, Jonjo Swaine and Francis Constantine used a fake Facebook account to lure the victim out of their home in Ellesmere Port while the victim was selling a car seat. Swaine forced entry into the address on Brooklyn Drive, stole a motocross bike during the confrontation where Constantine threatened the victim's 13-year-old daughter with a knife, and then fled to Liverpool with the stolen item.

Pleaded guilty to one count of burglary. Aged 22, of Wilburn Street.

9 Jun 2024

Faysul Alam

Burglary *

Sentence

9 months imprisonment, suspended for 2 years, 20 days rehabilitation activities, and 250 hours unpaid work

Faysul Alam participated in a stealing spree, stealing from The Indian in Northwich and The Royal Oak in Walsall. On March 1, he stole alcohol, cash, and an industrial blender worth approximately £820 from The Indian in Northwich. The Royal Oak burglary occurred in August 2024. He was arrested on March 26 after police stopped a red Vauxhall Insignia on Holmes Chapel Road, where he was found in possession of a balaclava, crowbar, and screwdriver, and was driving on a provisional licence without insurance.

Pleaded guilty to charges including theft and driving offences. Also convicted of two counts of driving without a licence and two counts of driving without insurance. Sentenced by Judge Steven Everett, the Honorary Recorder of Chester.

3 Jun 2024

Bradley Axford

Possession with intent to supply class A and B drugs *

Sentence

2 years imprisonment, suspended for 2 years, plus 30 days of rehabilitation activities and 150 hours of unpaid work

Bradley Axford was stopped by police on London Road for riding a bicycle through a red light in January 2023. He attempted to flee but was apprehended on Northwich Road. A search revealed he possessed cocaine, ecstasy, cannabis, ketamine, cash, a contact book, and a mobile phone, indicating involvement in drug dealing.

Pleaded guilty to four counts of possession with intent to supply class A and B drugs. Has previous convictions for possession of prohibited substances and weapons. Ordered to surrender £230 in ill-gotten gains and related items.

3 Jun 2024

Mohammed Alam

Burglary *

Sentence

8 months imprisonment, suspended for 2 years, 20 days rehabilitation activities, and 200 hours unpaid work

Mohammed Alam participated in a stealing spree, targeting Indian restaurants. On March 1, he stole alcohol, cash, and an industrial blender worth approximately £820 from The Indian in Northwich. On March 22, he stole four barrels of beer worth around £740 from Anmol in Warrington. He was arrested on March 26 after police stopped a red Vauxhall Insignia on Holmes Chapel Road, where he was found in possession of a balaclava, crowbar, and screwdriver.

Pleaded guilty to charges related to the stealing spree. Sentenced by Judge Steven Everett, the Honorary Recorder of Chester.

3 Jun 2024

Macauley Coutts

Burglary *

Sentence

40 months imprisonment

Macauley Coutts burgled a property on Blakeley Lane in Mobberley on March 4 by smashing the back doors to gain entry between 9.40am and 6pm while the residents were out. He searched every room and stole spare keys to two Audi vehicles and two watches. His blood was discovered at the scene, leading to forensic matching and his eventual arrest on April 11 after evading police.

Pleaded guilty to burglary. Blood found at the scene led to his identification.

2 Jun 2024

Llewellyn Parry-Jones

Dangerous Driving *

Sentence

19 months imprisonment

On May 3, Llewellyn Parry-Jones was driving a white van while disqualified and without a licence or insurance. He was reported for drink-driving, tailgated a car, collided slowly with a pedestrian, drove around stationary cars in Vicar's Lane towards Little John Street nearly causing a crash, resisted arrest by reversing into a squad car, and was found with cannabis. He gave a breath test reading of 63mcg per 100ml, nearly twice the legal limit.

Pleaded guilty early. Judge labelled his defence as a pack of lies. Mitigating factors included the fourth anniversary of his father's death and the impact on his long-term partner, who has mental health issues.

2 Jun 2024

May 2024 4 cases

Bradley Walsh

Conspiracy to Supply Drugs *

Sentence

2 years imprisonment, suspended for 1.5 years

Bradley Walsh was involved in a drugs conspiracy as a street-level supplier of cannabis, cocaine, and ecstasy. The conspiracy operated for three years from March 2020 and was part of the 'DMO' drug line, which was stopped by Cheshire Police. He supplied Class A and Class B drugs around Cheshire, leading to his arrest and sentencing.

Admitted three counts of conspiring to supply cannabis, cocaine, and ecstasy. Sentence includes 20 days of rehabilitation activities and 150 hours of unpaid work, as ordered by Judge Steven Everett.

30 May 2024

Sarah Rigby

Controlling and coercive behaviour *

Sentence

20 months imprisonment suspended for 2 years

Sarah Rigby, 41, of Sunningdale Close, Winsford, subjected her boyfriend to controlling and coercive behaviour over six months in their shared home. The abuse included preventing him from using the toilet in the house, forcing him to sleep on the floor with windows open, assaulting and scratching his face, controlling his diet, forcing him to pay for her private treatments and reports, making him obtain codeine prescriptions for her habit, verbally abusing him with names like 'fat', 'lazy', 'sweaty', 'a whale', 'dopey', 'thick', 'smelly', 'dog', isolating him from family, frisking him to prevent taking food, accusing him of stealing, requiring cameras to watch him, evicting him from the house even when she was absent, and threatening to leave him if she did not get pregnant. The victim reported her to police in early March 2022; her phone messages confirmed the offending. Trial began 26 February 2024; she pleaded guilty on 28 February 2024.

Pleaded guilty two days into her trial in February 2024. Must complete 35 days of a rehabilitation activity. Restraining orders granted for five years to prevent contact with victim or his parents.

24 May 2024

Benjamin Lewis

Causing death by dangerous driving *

Sentence

10 years imprisonment

Benjamin Lewis, 31, of Neston, Wirral, was driving his blue BMW in convoy with his partner on the A5117 near Dunkirk on the Wirral, around 9.20pm on 25 November 2021 when the crash happened. He was overtaking another car on the single-track road when he collided with a silver Citroen car, coming the other way, being driven by Ellie Crossley, 20. Her long-time friend Rebecca Doughty, also 20, was a passenger in the car at the time. Lewis had driven his car into the opposite lane and was heading straight towards them when the crash happened. There were two solid white lines in the middle of the road, indicating that drivers in neither direction should overtake. Both Ellie and Rebecca were seriously injured in the crash and died shortly afterwards. Witnesses reported seeing Lewis driving at excessive speeds in the lead up to the crash. It had been raining and the roads were wet and it was dark. Lewis was said to lose control of his car when it became clear that he was going to crash into the oncoming vehicle. His car had also been found to have a worn rear tyre.

Pleaded guilty to two counts of causing death by dangerous driving. Relatives and friends of victims read out moving Victim Personal Statements at the sentencing hearing.

8 May 2024

Alfred Brereton

Criminal damage *

Sentence

Imprisonment

Alfred Brereton drove a tractor at a police car, causing more than £10,000 worth of damage, as reported in the article.

Deliberately rammed a police car with a tractor.

2 May 2024

April 2024 1 case

Jordan Masterson

Misconduct in public office *

Sentence

three-and-a-half years' imprisonment

Jordan Masterson, a serving police officer with Cheshire Constabulary, responded to a 999 call at a woman's home in December 2021 following a reported disturbance. After turning off his body-worn camera, he engaged in sexual relations with the vulnerable woman while her children were asleep upstairs. He later returned to her home, again turning off his camera, and asked her not to tell anyone. The woman reported the incident to police, leading to an investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct. Masterson resigned from the force and attempted to discredit the woman in his report.

Convicted of one count of misconduct in public office. A restraining order banning contact with the victim was imposed. Pleaded that he engaged in sexual intercourse but denied telling her not to speak about it.

5 Apr 2024

March 2024 4 cases

Luke Hirst

Conspiracy to supply Class A drugs *

Sentence

12 years imprisonment

Luke Hirst, 37, of Deeside, allowed his farm, Tirlas Goch, to be used as a storage and distribution point for heroin and cocaine imported by Guy Remington. The drugs, hidden in a trailer, were unloaded at the rural farm for privacy before being parcelled up and distributed throughout the UK via the nearby A55 and motorway network. Hirst was arrested nearby in a taxi on 20 September 2023 when police moved in on the farm. Mobile phones seized contained messages showing the high level of organisation involved.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply Class A drugs.

21 Mar 2024

Guy Remington

Conspiracy to import and supply Class A drugs *

Sentence

18 years imprisonment

Guy Remington, 48, from Hereford, imported heroin and cocaine from Europe through the Channel Tunnel by hiding them in secret compartments in a trailer. He made nine trips between May and September 2023, bringing millions of pounds worth of drugs into the UK. The drugs were taken to Luke Hirst’s farm, Tirlas Goch in Deeside, for distribution. On 20 September 2023, police arrested Remington at the farm after he brought in another consignment. Cocaine and heroin with a potential street value of over £64 million was recovered.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to import and supply Class A drugs.

21 Mar 2024

Thomas Smith

Conspiracy to supply Class A drugs *

Sentence

18 years imprisonment

Thomas Smith, 41, from Liverpool, a Class A drug dealer, collected heroin and cocaine from Luke Hirst’s farm in Deeside for onward distribution through his network of suppliers in Liverpool. The drugs were part of a large-scale operation importing millions of pounds worth of Class A drugs from Europe between May and September 2023. Smith was arrested at a house in Garrowby Drive, Liverpool on 18 October 2023. Mobile phones seized contained evidence of the sophisticated criminal operation. Cocaine and heroin with a street value over £64 million was recovered overall.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply Class A drugs, possession with intent to supply MDMA, and possession of cannabis.

21 Mar 2024

Morgan Towner

Conspiracy to supply Class A drugs *

Sentence

7 years imprisonment

Morgan Towner, 47, of Leatherhead in Surrey, collected heroin and cocaine from Luke Hirst’s farm in Deeside and transported them to the south of England using a van with a hidden compartment designed to conceal the drugs. The drugs were part of an organised crime gang's operation importing millions of pounds worth of Class A drugs from Europe between May and September 2023. Towner was arrested on 26 October 2023 at a house in Station Road, Leatherhead. Mobile phones seized contained messages evidencing the high level of planning in the operation.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply Class A drugs.

21 Mar 2024

February 2024 5 cases

Matthew Melling

Negligence under health and safety law *

Sentence

fined £6,300 and 250 hours of unpaid community service

Matthew Melling, as a director of Flip Out Chester, failed to mitigate safety risks at the trampoline park. From December 2016 to February 2017, 270 customers were injured, with 11 suffering life-changing spinal injuries and others experiencing facial and other harms, due to the unsafe Tower Jump feature.

Pleaded guilty to a single count of negligence under health and safety law. Judge Michael Leeming noted that the defendants were negligent rather than deliberate, and both had been chastened by the process.

27 Feb 2024

David Elliot Shuttleworth

Negligence under health and safety law *

Sentence

fined £6,500 and 250 hours of unpaid community service

David Elliot Shuttleworth, as a director of Flip Out Chester, oversaw operations where customers, including children, were injured using the Tower Jump feature. Between December 2016 and February 2017, 270 injuries occurred, including 11 spinal injuries requiring surgery and various other harms like facial and dental injuries, due to negligence in addressing safety risks despite daily incidents.

Pleaded guilty to a single count of negligence under health and safety law. Judge Michael Leeming noted a 'cavalier' approach to safety and that the sentence was less than many hoped for.

27 Feb 2024

Andrew Thompson

Child sexual abuse offences *

Sentence

8 years imprisonment

Andrew Thompson, a 32-year-old teaching assistant and volunteer with a children’s activity group in Cheshire, committed 33 child sexual abuse offences against more than 15 young boys. His offending was discovered when another volunteer found a hidden camera he had installed under a toilet in a Warrington hall used by the youth group. Indecent images were found on the downloaded footage, and Thompson was identified as he had filmed himself placing the camera. Arrested on 23 December 2022, his devices revealed further indecent images, videos of him abusing children at the school where he worked, and images from a school trip.

Pleaded guilty to 33 charges including making and taking indecent images of children, possessing indecent images, voyeurism, and sexually assaulting a child under 13. Made subject of a sexual harm prevention order prohibiting contact with children, banned from working with children, and restraining orders imposed to prevent contact with victims.

19 Feb 2024

Nathan Bake

Facilitating child sexual exploitation *

Sentence

16 years imprisonment

Nathan Bake, a 28-year-old car mechanic from Runcorn, Cheshire, served as second-in-command of a dark web site called The Annex, which had nearly 90,000 users worldwide and facilitated the sharing of extreme child abuse images, including 'hurtcore' involving violence against babies and toddlers. He moderated the site under the username 'Pink', answered user queries, offered advice on evading detection, and was involved in other sites like Lolita's Paradise. Following his arrest in November 2022, authorities recovered over 3.6 million indecent images from his devices, along with children's tights, underwear, and sandals at his home. The site was a sophisticated operation with staff shifts and meetings, and Bake rose through the ranks after the previous head moderator's arrest in May 2022.

Pleaded guilty to 12 offences related to moderating and creating sites on the dark web for sharing child abuse material. Judge Patrick Thompson considered him a dangerous offender and ordered an extended licence period of four years. He was diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome at age 16 and has converted to Islam, finding some peace in scriptures.

14 Feb 2024

Alice Wood

Murder *

Sentence

Life imprisonment with a minimum term of 18 years

Alice Wood, 24, murdered her fiance Ryan Watson, 24, by deliberately driving her Ford Fiesta at him after an argument following a party in Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent on May 6, 2022. The incident occurred near their home in Rode Heath, Cheshire, where Wood reversed aggressively towards Watson, struck him, and then drove at him again, dragging him under the car for 158 metres, resulting in his death. She claimed it was a tragic accident but was convicted based on CCTV footage and evidence of her losing her temper.

Pleaded not guilty but was found guilty by a jury. Judge Michael Leeming stated she used her car as a weapon, showed no true remorse, and was over the drink-drive limit.

2 Feb 2024

January 2024 3 cases

Matthew Turner

Burglary *

Sentence

20 months imprisonment, suspended for 2 years

Matthew Turner, a 24-year-old decorator employed by a trusted firm, stole three watches worth more than £30,000 from the Duke of Westminster's bedroom at Eaton Hall near Chester in August 2022 while carrying out renovation work. The items included a Cartier London Tank JC watch worth £18,000, a Panerai Luminor Marina watch worth £7,000, and a Breitling watch worth £7,000, which held sentimental value as it was a gift from the duke's late father and mother. One watch was recovered after being spotted on an auction site, but the other two were not; Turner was motivated by drug debts and refused to disclose their location.

Pleaded guilty to burglary; was addicted to cocaine at the time; judge noted he escaped prison 'by the skin of his teeth' and ordered 200 hours of unpaid work and 30 days of rehabilitation activity; also admitted a separate theft offence.

26 Jan 2024

Dean Garforth

Conspiracy to supply cocaine, cannabis, and weapons *

Sentence

19 years and 6 months imprisonment

Dean Garforth, aged 32 from Regency Park, Widnes, used the EncroChat network from March to July 2020 to coordinate the supply of substantial amounts of Class A and Class B drugs, including cocaine and cannabis, as well as weapons and ammunition. After fleeing to Spain, he was located in Marbella and arrested on 24 October 2022 following a joint operation by the National Crime Agency, Spanish National Police, and Cheshire Police. He resisted arrest by riding an e-bike into an officer. Extradited to the UK on 14 March 2023, he was charged with conspiracy to supply cocaine, conspiracy to supply cannabis, and conspiracy to supply weapons and ammunition.

Ringleader of a drugs gang using EncroChat network. Extradited from Spain. Pleaded guilty to charges. Later ordered to pay back £40,331 in confiscation order on 11 February 2025.

25 Jan 2024

Mark Davison

Supply of class A and B drugs *

Sentence

5 years and 7 months imprisonment

Mark Davison, 28, from Great Sutton, was involved in dealing class A and B drugs including cocaine, ketamine, and cannabis in Ellesmere Port. Detectives tracked two mobile phones used to arrange drug deals via text messages, linking them to Davison. On 18 December 2023, police raided his home on Acre Road, discovering a 'graft phone' loaded with drug-related messages, cash, and paraphernalia. The overwhelming evidence led to his guilty plea.

Pleaded guilty to dealing cocaine, ketamine, and cannabis. Prior to sentencing, police raided his home and found a 'graft phone' with drug messages, cash, and paraphernalia.

16 Jan 2024

November 2023 4 cases

Mike Swarbrick

Supply of Class A drugs *

Sentence

30 months imprisonment

On Saturday, December 30, 2023, Mike Swarbrick was involved in a dispute in Chester city centre at around 3am and left the scene in a taxi. Police traced him to his home in Nearne Place, Ellesmere Port, where they discovered a large cannabis farm, cash, and a quantity of cocaine. Tests revealed traces of his DNA on the drugs, and mobile phones showed messages indicating his active involvement in the sale of illegal drugs. He was arrested and charged.

Pleaded guilty to being concerned in the supply of Class A drugs (cocaine), production of Class B drugs (cannabis) and possession of Class A drugs (cocaine). Initially denied involvement but later admitted guilt.

28 Nov 2023

David Norbury

Breach of sexual harm prevention order and sex offenders register *

Sentence

2 years imprisonment

David Norbury, a 52-year-old sex offender from Shores Green Drive in Wincham, failed to notify police of his online alias 'TrendyBear109758' as required by the sex offenders register. He also breached a sexual harm prevention order by entering and remaining at an address with a child under 16 between June 25 and August 27, 2023. This is his second breach of an SHPO in three years; previously, he received an eight-week sentence for deleting his internet search history.

Pleaded guilty to failing to comply with the sex offenders register and breaching a sexual harm prevention order (SHPO). Judge Patrick Thompson stated that due to the seriousness of the offences, only a custodial sentence could be justified. 4 months for failing to comply with notification requirements, consecutive to 20 months for breaching SHPO.

25 Nov 2023

Richard Webb

Indecent assault on a child *

Sentence

8 years imprisonment

Richard Webb sexually abused his victim over the course of six years, with the first incident occurring in the 1990s. The abuse involved six counts of indecent assault on a child, leading to the victim disassociating from her childhood and suffering long-term emotional trauma.

Found guilty after a four-day trial. The victim reported that the abuse ruined her life and she will forever be trying to deal with it. Police praised the victim's bravery in coming forward.

20 Nov 2023

Russell Wilcox

Possession of prohibited firearms *

Sentence

18 months imprisonment

Police executed a warrant at Russell Wilcox's home address in Longridge, Knutsford, on August 29, 2023, where they seized four sawn-off shotguns along with ammunition. Wilcox, aged 52, was arrested at the scene.

Pleaded guilty to being in possession of four firearms of a length less than 60cm. Ordered to pay £187 victim surcharge. Remanded in custody since first court appearance on September 1 due to the seriousness of the offence.

10 Nov 2023

October 2023 1 case

Jermaine Scott

Grievous Bodily Harm *

Sentence

3 years imprisonment

Jermaine Scott, diagnosed with HIV in 2005, rekindled a relationship with the victim in summer 2009 without disclosing his diagnosis. He did not take his medication regularly and had unprotected sex with her, leading to her infection. In October 2009, at a sexual health clinic, he provided false information. The victim tested positive for HIV, and the relationship ended. Scott fled the area, was arrested in 2011 but released due to insufficient evidence, and deported. The case reopened with new medical evidence showing high likelihood of transmission during their relationship and genetic links in HIV strains. He was charged in 2020 and extradited in 2022.

Pleaded guilty to grievous bodily harm. Diagnosed with HIV in 2005 but not taking medication regularly. Provided false name and medical details at clinic.

17 Oct 2023

August 2023 1 case

Georgia Bilham

Sexual Assault *

Sentence

24-month community order, 150 hours of unpaid work, 35 rehabilitation days, restraining order for 5 years, sign sex offenders' register for 5 years, and sexual harm prevention order for 5 years

Georgia Bilham created a false online Snapchat persona named George Parry to deceive a short-sighted teenager into believing she was a man. She maintained this deception by wearing a hood to hide her identity and claimed paranoia due to alleged involvement with gangsters. On May 11, 2021, she crashed a car while with the victim and was convicted of sexually assaulting the teenager by kissing her, as the victim had not given true consent due to the deception.

Judge Michael Leeming stated she took advantage of the complainant's naivety and that she presented as a boy to deceive the victim. She was cleared of other charges but expressed regret for her actions.

18 Aug 2023

April 2023 3 cases

Arif Patel

Fraud and money laundering *

Sentence

31 years in prison

Arif Patel, a 57-year-old from Preston, Lancashire, ran a scam through his company Faisaltex Ltd, involving chains of fake business transactions to steal VAT repayments on false exports of textiles and mobile phones. He also imported and sold counterfeit clothes worth at least £50 million if genuine. The fraud funded a £90 million property empire across the UK and overseas, and he fled to Dubai in 2011.

Masterminded a carousel tax fraud gang; convicted in absence; confiscation order for £90,503,211 and assets including properties and a Ferrari.

1 Apr 2023

Arif Umarji Patel

Carousel tax fraud *

Sentence

31 years imprisonment

Arif Umarji Patel, 57, of Preston, orchestrated a carousel tax fraud attempting to steal £97 million through false VAT repayment claims on exports of textiles and mobile phones. His gang imported and sold counterfeit clothes worth at least £50 million if genuine. Proceeds funded a property empire in London, Preston, Morocco, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey, including a Ferrari 575 Superamerica. Tried and convicted in absence after fleeing to Dubai in July 2011.

Sentenced in absence following conviction for fraud and money laundering. Subject to confiscation order of £90,503,211.96 under Proceeds of Crime Act 2002. Mastermind of carousel tax fraud and counterfeit clothing operation.

1 Apr 2023

Mohamed Jaffar Ali

Fraud and money laundering *

Sentence

31 years in prison

Mohamed Jaffar Ali, 61, from Dubai, assisted in the fraud and money laundering operations by handling finances as part of Arif Patel's gang, which involved carousel fraud to evade VAT on false exports and imports of textiles, mobile phones, and counterfeit goods.

Co-accused and financial enabler for Arif Patel; convicted in absence; subject to confiscation order for £677,000.

1 Apr 2023

Disclaimer: The information on this page is compiled from publicly available court records and published media reports. It is provided strictly for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as a definitive record of any individual's criminal history or legal status.

Offence names marked with an asterisk (*) reflect descriptions used in media reporting and may not correspond to the formal legal charge or indictment. Sentencing details are as reported and may be subject to subsequent appeal, variation, or correction by the courts.

All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The presence of a name on this page does not imply guilt, and some listed individuals may have had convictions overturned, sentences reduced, or charges withdrawn after the date of publication.

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Colvin House, Castle St, Chester CH1 2AN, Chester, CH1 2AN, United Kingdom

+441244317606

Wheelchair accessible parking, Wheelchair accessible entrance

Monday - Friday: 09:00 - 17:00

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About Chester Crown Court

Chester Crown Court, located in Chester, is a Crown Court that handles serious criminal cases including murder, rape, robbery, and other indictable offences. With 442 sentencing records in our database, it is one of the Crown Courts serving the Chester area. Crown Courts sit with a judge and jury, and have the power to impose the full range of sentences available under UK law.

The court can be found at Colvin House, Castle St, Chester CH1 2AN, CH1 2AN.

Accessibility provisions at this court include wheelchair accessible entrance and wheelchair accessible parking.

For enquiries about cases heard at this court, you can contact the court by telephone on +441244317606.

All sentencing information published on this page has been sourced from publicly-available records and verified by our editorial team. If you believe any information is inaccurate or should be removed, you can submit a removal request directly from the relevant listing above.

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Chester Crown Court Sentencing Results

Daniel Wollaston

Alec Cosgrove

Charlie Maher-Burns

Gary Edwards

Gareth Lancaster

Ruhul Mohammed Shamsuddin

Bradley Neild

Luke Cooper

Sefa Sarikaya

Ryan Mchugh

Robert Spiers

Daniel Allcock

James Jackson

Daniel Peters

Denis Puka

Erisjan Laska

Giedrius Arcisauskas

Francis Constantine

Jonjo Swaine

Faysul Alam

Bradley Axford

Mohammed Alam

Macauley Coutts

Llewellyn Parry-Jones

Bradley Walsh

Sarah Rigby

Benjamin Lewis

Alfred Brereton

Jordan Masterson

Luke Hirst

Guy Remington

Thomas Smith

Morgan Towner

Matthew Melling

David Elliot Shuttleworth

Andrew Thompson

Nathan Bake

Alice Wood

Matthew Turner

Dean Garforth

Mark Davison

Mike Swarbrick

David Norbury

Richard Webb

Russell Wilcox

Jermaine Scott

Georgia Bilham

Arif Patel

Arif Umarji Patel

Mohamed Jaffar Ali

About Chester Crown Court

Nearby Courts

Chester Magistrates Court

Mold Crown Court

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