Chester Magistrates' Court Sentencing Results

Explore 53 verdicts at Chester Magistrates' Court (Chester, Chester). Updated with the latest court outcomes.

Jimmy Mccann

Dangerous driving

December 1, 2025

Sentence: 8 months imprisonment

On November 29, 2025, at around 8pm, Jimmy McCann was spotted driving a black Ford Mondeo erratically on the M6 northbound at junction 19, displaying cloned plates. He swerved across lanes, reached speeds of up to 120mph, slowed to 40mph on the hard shoulder, then fled, leading to a police chase onto the M62 where he made a U-turn. Officers rammed his vehicle to stop the pursuit. He was arrested for multiple offences including drug driving.

Pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, driving whilst disqualified and driving without insurance. Banned from driving for 30 months and required to pass an extended test.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Rachel Lawrence

Possession of a bladed article in a public place and using threatening behaviour

November 24, 2025

Sentence: 12 month prison sentence, suspended for two years

On September 7, 2025, at around 5.10pm in the village of Burton near Neston on The Wirral, Rachel Lawrence confronted a property lawyer investigating a boundary dispute with her neighbour. She followed the lawyer and his colleague to their vehicles, holding a pair of 5.5-inch garden scissors in her fist at head height, approaching within one metre of the lawyer's face. Lawrence condemned the lawyer's client as a liar, questioned if she would stab him with the scissors, attempted to grab his phone while he called police, and stated 'this is my road - I can do whatever I want.' She then stormed back to her £400,000 Grade II Listed 17th Century cottage, muttering an expletive. The incident arose from an ongoing bitter boundary dispute, during which Lawrence had previously called police about her neighbour. The lawyer, based in Liverpool, feared for his safety, suffered emotional distress, and withdrew from the case.

Pleaded guilty to possession of a bladed article in a public place and using threatening behaviour. Ordered to pay £200 in compensation, £272 in costs and a surcharge. JP Jean Banford noted the seriousness of the offence and rejected the defendant's claim of weeding.

Sources: manchestereveningnews.co.uk

Kerion Griffiths

Dangerous driving

November 12, 2025

Sentence: 12 months imprisonment suspended for 18 months, 18-month driving ban, £272 court charge, 12-month supervision period

On Saturday, August 2, 2025, Kerion Griffiths, 31, of Longfield Avenue, Chester, overtook a group of bikes at over 100mph on a Kawasaki ZX1000 motorbike at temporary traffic lights. He failed to stop when pursued by police, reaching speeds over 125mph on 70mph, 50mph, and 20mph roads, leading to the pursuit being abandoned due to risk. One week later, on August 9, he was pulled over on the A41 Chester Road in Ellesmere Port, where cannabis was found in his rucksack, and he tested positive for cannabis. A search of his home revealed more cannabis. He was charged on October 14, 2025, and pleaded guilty at his first court appearance.

Pleaded guilty to failing to stop for police, dangerous driving, drug driving, and possession of cannabis. Prior to sentencing, admitted guilt in interview. If reoffends during supervision, could face custodial sentence.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Catrin Jones

Drink driving

November 10, 2025

Sentence: £677 fine, £356 costs, £154 surcharge, 2 years driving disqualification

On October 10, 2025, at approximately 4.57am, Catrin Jones, 23, from Rossett, Wrexham, was seen on council CCTV drunkenly entering her Ford Fiesta with her partner after a birthday party. She drove erratically from Bridge Street in Chester towards Handbridge, swerving on the road, before pulling into a layby near Chester International School. Police found the engine off but keys in the ignition, with Jones in the driver's seat engaged in activity with her partner. She stumbled out, smelt of alcohol, slurred her words, and failed a roadside breath test. Evidential tests showed 92 micrograms of alcohol in 100ml of breath, over twice the legal limit of 35 micrograms. She was arrested and taken into custody.

Admitted drink driving. Of good character prior to offence. Remorseful. Offered drink driver awareness course to reduce ban by 25%. Judge noted loss of good character due to conviction.

Sources: manchestereveningnews.co.uk

Ceri Chase

Assault

November 4, 2025

Sentence: 12 month community order with 80 hours of unpaid work and 10 days of rehabilitation activity, £250 compensation to each victim

On September 13, 2025, Ceri Chase, 29, a healthcare assistant, along with Chelsea Smith and a third unidentified woman, attacked two sisters in the street in Chester due to a prior relationship between one victim's partner and a relative of Chase. Chase punched the first victim in the face, dragged her to the floor, and then joined in hitting the second victim on the back while she was down. The incident was captured on CCTV. Victims suffered bruising, black eye, swollen bumps, and cuts. Chase claimed she was drunk from a birthday event and is an infrequent alcohol user.

Admitted two charges of assault. No kicking involved, accepted punching to the back of the head and body. Alcohol played a part due to birthday event. Restraining order for two years to stay away from first victim.

Sources: manchestereveningnews.co.uk

Chelsea Smith

Assault

November 4, 2025

Sentence: 12 month community order with 80 hours of unpaid work and 10 days of rehabilitation activity, £250 compensation to first victim

On September 13, 2025, Chelsea Smith, 28, a cleaner, along with Ceri Chase and a third unidentified woman, attacked two sisters in the street in Chester due to a prior relationship between one victim's partner and a relative of Chase. Smith, wearing long black boots, got on top of the first victim on the floor and hit her, then rushed back to take her down again, hitting her on the back. The incident was captured on CCTV. Victims suffered bruising, black eye, swollen bumps, and cuts. Smith claimed she was encouraged to drink heavily at a brunch and is an infrequent alcohol user.

Admitted one charge of assault. Adamant no kicking, accepted punching. Was 10 out of 10 drunk after bottomless brunch. Lives quietly, cares for nine-year-old son with special needs, works as cleaner. Restraining order for two years to stay away from first victim.

Sources: manchestereveningnews.co.uk

Lorraine Dodd

Criminal damage and being drunk and disorderly

October 31, 2025

Sentence: £80 fine, £16 surcharge, £85 prosecution costs, £60 probation costs

On October 25, 2025, Lorraine Dodd, 43, of Hoole Road, argued with McDonald's staff in Foregate Street, Chester, because they would not admit her dog. She shouted and swore at staff after police told her to move on, leading to her arrest. While in the police van, she spat on the side, causing it to be temporarily decommissioned for cleaning. This incident breached two community orders (18 months and 12 months) and a suspended sentence, all from 2025. She has mental health issues triggered by finding her partner dead, leading to alcohol problems, homelessness, and non-compliance with orders due to heavy drinking and hospitalization.

Pleaded guilty to criminal damage and being drunk and disorderly. Breached two community orders and a suspended sentence. Magistrates declined to invoke the suspended sentence, warning she is 'burning up her last chances'. Probation supports continued compliance now that she has accommodation and is addressing alcohol issues.

Sources: chesterstandard.co.uk

Iosif Grancia

Theft

October 27, 2025

Sentence: 6 months imprisonment, suspended for 18 months, £500 compensation

Iosif Grancia and his wife, along with their young children, conducted a shoplifting spree at Cheshire Oaks designer outlet. On June 15, 2025, they stole four pairs of shoes, a T-shirt, T-shirts, and shorts valued at approximately £500 from the Nike store, using children to carry bags out without payment. On August 24, 2025, they returned and stole items valued at £800 from the same store, again using children to facilitate. On August 31, 2025, they stole three jumpers worth £235 from Tommy Hilfiger and a handbag worth £239 from Coach, de-tagging and leaving without payment. They were detained by police after their vehicle was identified on CCTV, found in possession of stolen goods. A search of their home found no items. Children were actively used to facilitate the offences.

Pleaded guilty to four offences of theft. Previous convictions for theft and handling stolen goods from Ireland and Germany, including suspended sentences in 2020 and 2021. Judge noted deliberate shoplifting expedition involving children, crossing custody threshold but suspended due to childcare commitments.

Sources: manchestereveningnews.co.uk

Ana-Mirabella Grancia

Theft

October 27, 2025

Sentence: 4 months imprisonment, suspended for 18 months, £500 compensation

Ana-Mirabella Grancia and her husband, along with their young children, conducted a shoplifting spree at Cheshire Oaks designer outlet. On June 15, 2025, they stole four pairs of shoes, a T-shirt, T-shirts, and shorts valued at approximately £500 from the Nike store, using children to carry bags out without payment. On August 24, 2025, they returned and stole items valued at £800 from the same store, again using children to facilitate. On August 31, 2025, they stole three jumpers worth £235 from Tommy Hilfiger and a handbag worth £239 from Coach, de-tagging and leaving without payment. They were detained by police after their vehicle was identified on CCTV, found in possession of stolen goods. A search of their home found no items. Children were actively used to facilitate the offences.

Pleaded guilty to four offences of theft. Employed part-time as a cleaner and in receipt of state benefits. Judge noted deliberate shoplifting expedition involving children, crossing custody threshold but suspended due to childcare commitments.

Sources: manchestereveningnews.co.uk

Robert Kelly

Dangerous driving

October 24, 2025

Sentence: 16 weeks imprisonment suspended for 12 months, disqualified from driving for 2 years

Robert Kelly, 31, of East Street, Leeds, was driving a Volkswagen Golf along 70mph-limit Watkinson Way, Widnes at 9.35pm on Thursday, October 23, 2025, reaching speeds of more than 130mph while 'racing' another vehicle. Officers in an unmarked police vehicle spotted and stopped him near Earl Drive. He was arrested and charged with dangerous driving.

Pleaded guilty to dangerous driving. Must pass an extended driving test to regain licence. Breached bail conditions not to engage in car meets or anti-social driving.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Nozir Rahman

Refusal to carry assistance dog

September 10, 2025

Sentence: £580 fine, plus £80 victim surcharge and £300 costs

Nozir Rahman, a 31-year-old taxi driver from Chester, refused to carry assistance dogs for two blind customers in February 2025. The customers had booked a taxi via KingKabs to Chester Railway Station, explaining they had assistance dogs. Rahman arrived but declined to take the dogs and drove away, leading to a report to the Cheshire West and Chester Licensing Authority and his subsequent interview under caution.

Pleaded guilty to the offence. Gave three different reasons for not carrying the dogs and will be reviewed by the General Licensing Sub-Committee for fitness to continue as a licensed driver.

Sources: cheshire-live.co.uk

Darren O’Reilly

Burglary

September 1, 2025

Sentence: 6 months imprisonment

Darren O’Reilly entered the private quarters of the Peacock pub on Christleton Road, Boughton, on the afternoon of 28 August 2025. He accessed the office, took cash from the safe, and stuffed it into his backpack. He was spotted by staff, made an excuse about looking for a friend, and left. The incident was captured on the pub’s CCTV, which led to his identification through facial recognition software. He was detained by Merseyside Police on 29 August 2025 for another matter, and the stolen cash was recovered.

Pleaded guilty to burglary at the first opportunity. Caught via CCTV and facial recognition technology, as stated by PC Dan Malone.

Sources: cheshire-live.co.uk

Ellis Rigby

Theft from a motor vehicle

August 20, 2025

Sentence: 26 weeks imprisonment and a £154 court surcharge

Ellis Rigby, 23, broke into several vehicles and a commercial property in Latchford and Warrington between June 28 and August 10, 2025, stealing items such as makeup, washing products, bank cards, sunglasses, and cash. He used the stolen bank cards for transactions at various stores, was identified through CCTV footage and bank records, and was arrested on August 19, 2025.

Pleaded guilty to four counts of theft from a motor vehicle and one count of shoplifting.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

John Whitmore

Dangerous Driving

July 23, 2025

Sentence: 12 months imprisonment and a driving ban for 2 years and 6 months

John Whitmore, driving a Mazda 3 while disqualified and without insurance, was spotted in Crewe on June 23, 2025, during a police operation targeting illegal drivers. He panicked and led police on a high-speed chase, reaching speeds of 90mph in 70mph zones, driving through 30mph areas, going the wrong way around roundabouts, and forcing other motorists to take evasive action. The pursuit ended when he stalled at a roundabout. He tested positive for cannabis and was wanted for failing to appear in court for a previous driving offence.

Pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, failing to stop, driving whilst disqualified, and driving without insurance. Police noted he panicked during the incident and chose the worst day possible for the offence, leading to a more severe sentence.

Sources: stokesentinel.co.uk

Paul Ince

Driving offense

July 23, 2025

Sentence: Driving ban

Paul Ince was involved in a driving-related offense that resulted in a ban.

Matthew Cumpsty

Dangerous driving

July 16, 2025

Sentence: 12-month community order, 200 hours unpaid work, and 16-month driving ban

Matthew Cumpsty was driving his Mercedes E220 while under the influence of cocaine. He jumped a red light at the junction of Vicars Cross Road and Green Lane in Chester on April 1, 2025, colliding with a JCB tractor pulling a tanker containing animal waste. The impact caused the 31-tonne tractor and tanker to crash into two houses, destroying their facades and rendering one structurally unsafe. No injuries were reported, but one householder fled in his pyjamas.

Admitted to drug driving and dangerous driving. Stated he has never been in trouble before and was devastated. Ordered to pay £199 in costs and a surcharge.

Sources: manchestereveningnews.co.uk

Lucy Cleary

Assaulting an emergency worker

July 16, 2025

Sentence: 12-month community order with 10 rehabilitation activity requirement days, £160 fine, £300 compensation to the police officer, £50 compensation to the pub, and 12-month exclusion from the Penny Black pub

On April 15, 2025, Lucy Cleary, 28, was ejected from the Penny Black pub in Northwich after an altercation with another customer. She returned, pushed the bar manager, threw drink glasses and chairs, narrowly missing customers, and continued the disturbance. When police arrived, she resisted arrest, pushed and punched a female officer several times to the head, causing a lump on the officer's eyebrow, before being subdued with PAVA spray.

Pleaded guilty to common assault, criminal damage, and assaulting an emergency worker. No prior convictions; judge noted she was of good character and gave full credit for the guilty plea, accepting her claim that she struck the officer once.

Sources: manchestereveningnews.co.uk

Daniel Gibson

Assault

July 10, 2025

Sentence: 4 years imprisonment

Daniel Gibson was involved in a brutal attack in a town centre, leading to his sentencing, though specific details about the incident, including what exactly happened, when it occurred, and other circumstances, are not provided in the text.

Andrew Griffiths

Drink driving

July 2, 2025

Sentence: Disqualified from driving for 25 months and up to five days of rehabilitation activity

Andrew Griffiths was driving an Audi car in Erbistock, Wrexham on May 11, 2025, when his alcohol level was above the legal limit. He was charged with driving a motor vehicle over the alcohol limit and convicted following a court hearing.

Will be subject to gross misconduct procedures. Ban can be reduced by 25 weeks if he completes an approved drink driving course by December 7, 2026.

Sources: dailypost.co.uk

Jonathan Heron

Burglary

June 6, 2025

Sentence: Six months imprisonment

Jonathan Heron broke into a fitness studio on Chester Way on June 1, 2025, and stole a small quantity of cash before fleeing the scene.

Brian Cooper

Breach of Criminal Behaviour Order

May 31, 2025

Sentence: 16 weeks in prison

On May 13, 2025, Brian Cooper entered a property in Blacon without permission, violating his five-year CBO that banned him from most of the Blacon area and certain accommodations.

Mike Amesbury

Assault

February 24, 2025

Sentence: 10 weeks imprisonment

Mike Amesbury assaulted Paul Fellows, 45, following a row in the street in Frodsham, Cheshire, in the early hours of October 26. Footage showed Amesbury punching Mr Fellows to the head, knocking him to the ground, then following him on to the road and punching him at least five times more. He was heard saying, 'You won’t threaten your MP again will you, you f****** soft lad?'

Pleaded guilty to assault. Judge stated an immediate custodial sentence was necessary as a punishment and a deterrent.

Sources: standard.co.uk

Nichola Ions

Theft from a shop

November 13, 2024

Sentence: 32 weeks imprisonment

Between October 1 and November 12, 2024, Nichola Ions and Peter Murray targeted several stores in Ellesmere Port, including Aldi, Marks & Spencer and Boots, stealing £1,167 worth of meat joints and beauty products without paying. They were also wanted by North Wales Police for similar offences in Flintshire. Following investigations, officers traced and arrested both suspects.

Pleaded guilty to two counts of theft from a shop. Had been handed a suspended sentence in September.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Thomas Forster

Possession of cocaine

November 1, 2024

Sentence: £120 fine

Thomas Forster, 43, of Hoole Road, Chester, was made homeless when his flat was turned into an Airbnb, leading to a mental health spiral. Cheshire Police officers responded to an unrelated incident and detected a smell of cannabis. He was seen smoking a joint and handed over a large tin of tobacco and cannabis plus a wrap of cocaine. He has a prior conditional discharge for cannabis possession from November 2024, which he breached. His last similar offending was in 2017. He is staying at the Dene Hotel, suffers from mental and physical pain, attempted suicide, uses cannabis for pain relief, and is seeking medical prescription and help for cocaine use.

Pleaded guilty to possession of cannabis and cocaine. Breached conditional discharge from November 2024, which was allowed to continue. Also ordered to pay £48 surcharge and £85 prosecution costs. No separate penalty for cannabis.

Sources: chesterstandard.co.uk

Hayat Ibrhim

Causing injury by careless/inconsiderate driving

October 31, 2024

Sentence: 26 weeks imprisonment suspended for 2 years, 200 hours unpaid work, 2-year driving ban

On or about March 13, 2024, at Lookers Chester car showroom on Sealand Road, Hayat Ibrhim, 36, of St Domingo Vale in Liverpool, was viewing a potential new car and struggled to engage the vehicle. After being shown by staff, the car accelerated and struck Karen Smaali, who was standing a few metres away also intending to buy a car. Smaali suffered head injuries and had her leg amputated in hospital. No aggravating factors like drinking involved.

Pleaded guilty. Full of remorse, strong mitigating factors including voluntary work and family responsibilities with seven children. No risk of reoffending. Costs £85, surcharge £154. Compensation deferred to civil court.

Sources: leaderlive.co.uk

Luke Weedall

Breach of criminal behaviour order and theft

October 10, 2024

Sentence: 8 weeks imprisonment

Luke Weedall, 37, of no fixed address in Northwich, breached a criminal behaviour order (CBO) issued on September 12, 2024, banning him from shops in Northwich including B&M, Home Bargains, Sainsbury's and Tesco. On September 30, he entered B&M at Northwich Retail Park and stole a Vax vacuum cleaner worth £89, and from nearby Tesco stole four Lenor scent booster pods worth £32. He returned to Tesco on October 2 and B&M on October 5, stealing cleaning products of unknown value.

Admitted all charges. Sentenced for flagrant disregard for people and their property, and offending while on licence.

Sources: chesterstandard.co.uk

Hamin Latif Rashed

Illegal tobacco offences

October 8, 2024

Sentence: 150 hours unpaid work, £1,027 costs, £114 surcharge

On October 14, 2024, officers from Cheshire West Trading Standards and Cheshire Police inspected Easy Shop, a general convenience store owned by Hamin Latif Rashed on Whitby Road, Ellesmere Port. Using trained sniffer dogs, they searched the premises and discovered illegal cigarettes and hand-rolling tobacco hidden in a concealed compartment behind a wooden board in a makeshift kitchen area. The board was disguised as a fuse box and socket, hinged to the wall with a magnetic lock. The goods included disposable vapes with 12 times the legal limit of nicotine liquid, packs of cigarettes without health warnings, and counterfeit cigarettes and hand-rolling tobacco.

Charged with 10 offences contrary to the Trademarks Act and Tobacco and Related Product Regulations.

Sources: chesterstandard.co.uk

Lucius Njoku

Fraud by false representation

October 4, 2024

Sentence: 16 weeks imprisonment suspended for 12 months, 80 hours unpaid work, £154 surcharge, £85 costs

Lucius Njoku, 33, of Oliver Lane, deceived safeguarding procedures by working shifts at the Countess of Chester Hospital under the name of Joyce George between February 16 and April 25, 2024, including in the A&E department. He had the relevant qualifications for the job but went about it the wrong way due to financial issues after arriving in the UK as a student. No complaints about his work and no harm occurred, but it was an abuse of trust. Messages on seized phones mapped out shared shifts. Joyce George has returned to Nigeria with a warrant for her arrest.

Pleaded guilty to fraud by false representation. No previous convictions. Judge noted deception undermined DBS system but strong mitigation including qualifications and no harm caused.

Sources: chesterstandard.co.uk

Kyle Twist

Assault by beating

October 1, 2024

Sentence: 8 weeks imprisonment

On June 7, 2024, Kyle Twist, 33, of Woodlands in Llandudno Junction, was involved in an argument on a Prestatyn to Chester train over playing music loudly on a personal speaker. After a fellow passenger made a light-hearted comment about his singing, Twist threw the speaker at the victim's head. When the victim picked it up and reported to the train manager, Twist rugby tackled him and pushed him into a window. This incident followed a prior assault by beating in April 2024, for which a community order was initially imposed but later revoked.

Pleaded guilty to assault by beating. Previous community order from April revoked due to poor compliance. Concurrent 4 weeks for train offence. Ordered to pay £160 compensation. Multiple prior convictions including recent possession of offensive weapon. ADHD and recent personal issues cited in mitigation.

Sources: northwalespioneer.co.uk

Oliver Threlfall

Failing to comply with a section 35 direction

October 1, 2024

Sentence: £120 fine, £48 surcharge, £85 costs

On September 19, 2024, police were called to Frodsham Street after reports of a drunk man in public. Oliver Threlfall, 53, of Newry Park, was standing in front of people and urinating in the street. A section 35 direction was issued to exclude him from the area, but he sat on a bench and ignored requests to leave, leading to his arrest.

Pleaded guilty to failing to comply with a section 35 direction. Prior similar offence in December 2023. Chairman Ronald Marshall noted root cause is alcohol and advised seeking help.

Sources: chesterstandard.co.uk

Sian Hughes

Actual Bodily Harm

September 6, 2024

Sentence: 12-month suspended sentence, 12 weeks imprisonment suspended, 1 week imprisonment suspended, 20 rehabilitation activity days, 60 hours unpaid work, 36-month driving ban, £500 compensation, £187 surcharge, and £85 costs

Sian Hughes, 37, of Thomas Kelly Grove in Great Sutton, crashed her car on the A51 in Chester on February 12 and 13, 2024. During the incident, she bit Sergeant Andrew Burrage's arm, causing a deep scar, and shouted that she had HIV, leading to physical and mental scarring for the officer. She also assaulted PC Rowan Burt and failed to provide a specimen for analysis. Hughes refused testing for HIV at the hospital, though she later denied having it to police. The incident was exacerbated by her history of domestic abuse and occurred on the anniversary of her grandfather's death.

Pleaded guilty to three charges; described as genuinely remorseful and emotional; incident linked to personal loss and self-medication with alcohol; magistrates noted the assault crossed the custody threshold but saw potential for rehabilitation.

Sources: wirralglobe.co.uk

Jamie Smith

Driving while over the limit for a controlled drug

August 29, 2024

Sentence: £346 fine, £138 surcharge, £85 costs, and 28 months driving disqualification

Jamie Smith was stopped by police on three occasions between June 27 and July 8, 2024, at locations including a Red Row housing estate and the A55 near Chester, where he was found to smell strongly of cannabis and had red and bloodshot eyes. Blood samples showed THC levels ranging from 8 to 9.8 micrograms per litre, exceeding the legal limit of 2 micrograms per litre. He was charged with driving while over the limit for a controlled drug and possession of cannabis.

Pleaded guilty to the charges. Has ADHD and autism, and was a cannabis user following the loss of his father; has since stopped using cannabis and is attending counselling. Fully cooperative with police.

Sources: chesterstandard.co.uk

Liam Mckay

Assault

August 29, 2024

Sentence: Fine of £1,033, surcharge of £413, costs of £85, and £250 compensation

Liam McKay, while intoxicated at a colleague's leaving party in Chester on August 11, 2024, struck the victim with one blow, knocking him to the ground and causing a significant head wound. He appeared in court and the matter was stood down for a pre-sentence report, highlighting his excessive drinking and work pressures.

Admitted assault; described as owner and head chef working long hours under pressure; incident seen as a wake-up call for alcohol use; magistrates noted he abused a position of trust and was lucky not to face more serious charges.

Sources: chesterstandard.co.uk

Craig Mckenzie Abbotson

Using a hand-held mobile phone while driving

August 20, 2024

Sentence: £166 fine, £110 costs, and 6 penalty points on driving licence

Craig McKenzie Abbotson was caught using a hand-held mobile phone while driving a Land Rover on Congleton Road in Monks Heath on February 1, 2024. He claimed exceptional hardship would result from a driving ban, impacting his ability to support his family and maintain his business.

Pleaded guilty. Mitigating circumstances due to exceptional hardship, as losing his licence would affect family caring responsibilities and lead to loss of business and home.

Sources: chesterstandard.co.uk

James Spencer

Using threatening or abusive words or behaviour

August 19, 2024

Sentence: Fined £276 plus £110 surcharge and £85 costs

On March 23, James Spencer and Megan Price boarded a train from Liverpool to Chester, brandished a zombie knife, and made threats to stab, kill, and rape a child during a video call, as well as to beat someone up, causing alarm to other passengers including children.

Pleaded guilty to using threatening or abusive words or behaviour. Has 11 previous convictions and was also sentenced for a prior public order offence.

Sources: chesterstandard.co.uk

Kieran Rowlands

Drug-driving

August 16, 2024

Sentence: 16 months driving disqualification and £360 fine

Kieran Rowlands was stopped by police twice in June 2024 for drug-driving offences. On June 9, he was driving a Vauxhall Insignia without insurance in Handa Road, Ellesmere Port, and tested positive for cocaine with a roadside swipe showing 800mcg per litre of blood. On June 19, he was driving a Vauxhall Combo van in Blacon Avenue with a deflated tyre, where police found a bag of cocaine in his vehicle and he tested positive for both cocaine and its residue, Benzoylecgonine.

Pleaded guilty. No previous convictions. Lost his job as a mechanic due to the offence. Fell into drug use because of family health issues and is now supported by his parents through recovery.

Sources: chesterstandard.co.uk

John Armitage

Sexual Assault

August 15, 2024

Sentence: 12 weeks in prison, suspended for 12 months

On November 1, 2024, John Armitage sexually assaulted a woman on a bus in Blacon, Chester. He grabbed her backside while intoxicated, leading to an argument and threats. The victim reported the incident, stating it caused her anxiety, vulnerability on public transport, and the need for medication, counselling, and leave from her university course and work.

Convicted at trial on July 25. Initially denied the offence but later apologised. The offence was aggravated by being drunk. Ordered to pay £250 compensation, register as a sex offender, complete 20 rehabilitation days, and comply with a 12-month restraining order not to contact the victim.

Sources: chesterstandard.co.uk

Shane Mcgarr

Possessing offensive weapons

August 6, 2024

Sentence: 6 months imprisonment

Shane McGarr was caught carrying a meat cleaver, an air pistol, and another knife on Crown Street in Warrington town centre on August 4, 2024. During a stop and search by Cheshire Police at 8.20pm, he assaulted a police officer and was found with a quantity of cannabis. He has previous convictions for possessing offensive weapons in public places.

Pleaded guilty to possessing a knife in a public place, possessing a loaded air weapon in public, assaulting a police constable, and possession of a controlled class B drug. Previous criminal record for weapon offences; mandatory minimum term due to prior convictions; no exceptional circumstances to avoid imprisonment.

Sources: warringtonguardian.co.uk

Elias Williams

Using threatening behaviour to provoke fear of violence

July 25, 2024

Sentence: Fined £120, ordered to pay £85 court costs, and a £48 victim surcharge

Elias Williams punched and kicked a man to the ground outside the Quayside pub on Witton Street in Northwich on February 1, 2024, which was his first night out after turning 18. The incident was captured on CCTV, and the victim was part of a group of men from Northwich. Williams was with a woman at the time and was later arrested at the Witton Chimes pub. The victim did not come forward, so the extent of injuries is unknown.

Pleaded guilty to the charge. No previous convictions; incident occurred after consuming alcohol and not taking ADHD medication. The chairman of the bench described it as an unsavoury incident and hoped it would not be repeated.

Sources: chesterstandard.co.uk

Simon Jones

Assaulting a police officer with racial aggravation

July 19, 2024

Sentence: 12-month community order with 20 rehabilitation activity days and £100 compensation

On July 17, 2024, at around 4.15am, police were called to a property in Donnington Place, Blacon, Chester, where Simon Jones was trying to enter the homeowner's door. He was found drunk in the garden, very intoxicated, and believed the address to be his own. Upon arrival, he told officers to 'f*** off d**kheads'. When more officers arrived, he inquired if they were Wrexham or Cheshire Police, and upon confirmation of the latter, called them 'English c****'. He assaulted the officers during the incident.

Admitted two charges of assaulting a police officer, being drunk and disorderly, and racial aggravation. Early guilty plea. Alcoholic who relapsed due to job loss and personal issues. Expressed deep shame and remorse. No uplift applied to racial aggravation as it was the lesser offence. No costs or surcharge ordered, prioritising compensation.

Sources: chesterstandard.co.uk

Sandra Taker

Causing death by careless driving

July 18, 2024

Sentence: 16 weeks imprisonment, suspended for two years, and banned from driving for 12 months

Sandra Taker was driving a Toyota Rav-4 that pulled out into the path of Kenneth Harper's Citoren C3 on A56 Hoole Road in Chester on October 22, 2024, at around 5pm, causing a collision that resulted in Harper's death.

Paula Barlow

Being the owner in charge of a dog dangerously out of control causing injury

July 18, 2024

Sentence: 12-month community order, 25 days of rehabilitation activity, and £500 compensation

Paula Barlow's XL Bully dog attacked Stephen Lewis during a chance meeting in Joan Bartlett Close/Marbury Gardens on August 15, 2023. Barlow was present and tried to restrain the 60kg dog, which caused significant physical injuries to Mr. Lewis's hands and psychological upset, including anxiety and the need for ongoing physiotherapy and medication. The incident had a profound impact on the victim and his family.

Found guilty after trial; no similar convictions for 10 years; attempted to restrain the dog; dog was euthanised in January 2024; judge noted she was not truly sorry and that owning the dog had benefited her life.

Sources: chesterstandard.co.uk

Mohammed Ashraf

Theft

July 16, 2024

Sentence: 4 weeks imprisonment

Mohammed Ashraf stole various items from Tesco Express on London Road, Alderley Edge, on July 15, and stole cheese and chocolate from Sainsbury's Local on Canute Place, Knutsford, on May 28. He has a history of similar thefts and was of no fixed address at the time.

Pleaded guilty to two counts of theft from a shop. The custodial sentence was due to his previous poor record. He was previously ordered to pay £273.20 in compensation for other thefts.

Sources: chesterstandard.co.uk

Aidan Callaghin

Dangerous Driving

June 30, 2024

Sentence: 2 years imprisonment, suspended for 3 years, 300 hours of unpaid work, and 2 years supervision

Aidan Callaghin led police on two high-speed chases, reaching speeds over 100mph on the A50 in Knutsford and Lymm. The first pursuit began on May 31, 2024, when he failed to stop for police on Tabley Road, accelerating in a silver Vauxhall Astra and overtaking vehicles while disregarding speed limits and solid white lines. He continued through residential areas, and the chase ended when his vehicle crashed into a police vehicle. A second incident occurred on June 1, 2024, where he again failed to stop, driving at excessive speeds, including 89mph in a 30mph area, until stopped by police tactics.

Pleaded guilty to two charges of dangerous driving and other traffic offences. Magistrates noted the offences are so serious that only a custodial sentence can be justified, due to two counts of dangerous driving resulting in a collision with a police vehicle. He was also ordered to pay £85 costs and a £187 victim surcharge.

Sources: warringtonguardian.co.uk

Ian James Mcintyre

Shoplifting

June 13, 2024

Sentence: 18 weeks imprisonment

Ian James McIntyre, a prolific shoplifter with no fixed abode in Crewe, targeted stores across Nantwich, Shavington, and Crewe, leading to his breach of a Criminal Behaviour Order.

Carl Edwards

Recklessly causing a public nuisance

June 10, 2024

Sentence: 6 months imprisonment, suspended for 12 months, 20 hours rehabilitation activity, £85 costs, and £154 victim surcharge

Carl Edwards initiated a six-hour stand-off with police outside the Portal in Ellesmere Port on March 17, 2024. He called 999, identifying himself and stating his intent to set himself on fire using a jerrycan of petrol and a lighter inside a white Vauxhall Insignia parked to block a car park on Wellington Road. He was protesting the Department for Work and Pensions removing his benefits and had additional items in the car, including other lighters, a box of matches, and a baseball bat. This caused the evacuation of the Portal, considerable disruption, and endangered emergency workers due to petrol vapours.

Pleaded guilty to the offences. Was in a mental health crisis, expressed genuine remorse, and has a light criminal record with three historical convictions. The court noted the seriousness of the incident but acknowledged he is now seeking help.

Sources: wirralglobe.co.uk

Jonathan Hughes

Driving while disqualified

June 6, 2024

Sentence: Extended driving ban until September 2026, fined £120, costs of £85, and victim surcharge of £48

Jonathan Hughes drove a car on April 30, 2024, while disqualified from driving until July 2026 and without insurance. He was spotted by police on Rossmore Road and Westminster Road, attempted to switch seats with the passenger upon being stopped, and gave a 'no comment' interview. At the time, he was helping a pregnant friend transport a second-hand washing machine.

Had 39 previous convictions including significant vehicle offences. Was recalled to prison and served four weeks. Defence stated he was helping a pregnant friend and drove a short distance foolishly.

Sources: wirralglobe.co.uk

Harry Newton-Jones

Drink-driving and drug-driving

May 27, 2024

Sentence: 4 months driving disqualification, £600 fine, £240 victim surcharge, and £85 costs

Harry Newton-Jones was found in the back of his broken-down vehicle on the A55 in Chester on February 22, 2024, with a breath alcohol reading of 83mcg per 100ml, more than twice the legal limit, and drugs in his system (cocaine at 25mcg per 100ml of blood and cannabis at 3.4mcg). Police also discovered six white bags of powder on his person. He had recently split from his partner, which led to his actions, and he works in construction seeking a promotion.

Pleaded guilty to all charges. Defendant is remorseful, has been drink and drugs free since the incident, and was described as a 'complete idiot' by his defence. Judge noted it was a serious offence requiring punishment to balance remorse and the threshold for disqualification.

Sources: wirralglobe.co.uk

Faye Rochford

Possession of a custody dog

September 15, 2023

Sentence: £40 fine and £500 kennel fees

On September 11, 2023, Cheshire Police officers were called to Faye Rochford's property in Ellesmere Port due to reports of an XL-Bully dog living there. The dog, named Luna, was being walked without a muzzle and was unneutered. Rochford struggled to put a harness on Luna in the back garden and admitted the dog was hard to train and control. Luna was later assessed by a police expert as wary but not aggressive, eventually showing a friendly nature. Defence clarified Luna is a pitbull terrier, a banned breed, though Rochford had registered her as a Staffordshire Bull Terrier unaware of the ban.

Pleaded guilty to possession of a custody dog. Contingency destruction order granted for dog Luna, giving two months to register her legally. £16 surcharge. No costs.

Sources: chesterstandard.co.uk

Matthew Hill

Drink-driving

September 9, 2023

Sentence: Fined £500, £200 surcharge, £85 costs, and banned for 12 months

On August 17, Matthew Hill was driving at speed on the A55, weaving through traffic, and made a last-minute manoeuvre to exit the road. He was pulled over by police, who found him over the legal alcohol limit with a breath test reading of 57mcg per 100ml of breath. He was arrested and has no prior convictions.

Pleaded guilty to driving above the legal limit. No previous convictions. Described as a poor decision by his lawyer. The ban can be reduced by a quarter if he completes a drink-driving rehabilitation course by September 2026.

Sources: leaderlive.co.uk

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