Liverpool Crown Court Sentencing Results

Explore 533 verdicts at Liverpool Crown Court (Liverpool). Updated with the latest court outcomes.

17-Year-Old Boy From Oxton

Section 18 wounding, robbery and violent disorder

January 22, 2026

Sentence: 5 years and 4 months imprisonment

An unnamed 17-year-old boy from Oxton was part of a gang that robbed a 14-year-old boy on Old Chester Road in Birkenhead on May 23, 2025, at 4.20pm. The gang threw bricks, assaulted the victim, knocked him off his bike, and stole it, resulting in a serious head injury requiring brain surgery. He was arrested shortly after and charged with section 18 wounding, robbery, and violent disorder.

17-Year-Old Boy From Tranmere

Section 18 wounding, robbery and violent disorder

January 22, 2026

Sentence: 6 years and 6 months imprisonment

An unnamed 17-year-old boy from Tranmere was part of a gang that robbed a 14-year-old boy on Old Chester Road in Birkenhead on May 23, 2025, at 4.20pm. The gang threw bricks, assaulted the victim, knocked him off his bike, and stole it, resulting in a serious head injury requiring brain surgery. He was arrested shortly after and charged with section 18 wounding, robbery, and violent disorder.

Adrian Waring

Child rape

January 22, 2026

Sentence: 22 years, 8 months imprisonment (14 years, 8 months in prison, 8 years on licence)

Adrian Waring, 35, raped an innocent and defenceless baby girl under the age of 12 months and filmed the attack. His offences included two counts of rape, six counts of making indecent photographs of a child, sexual assault, possession of extreme pornography, sexual activity with a living animal, and possession of cocaine.

Pleaded guilty to multiple child sex offences, possession of cocaine and bestiality. Given indefinite restraining order, indefinite sexual harm prevention order, and must sign the Sex Offenders Register for life.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Warren Mchugh

Section 18 wounding, robbery and violent disorder

January 22, 2026

Sentence: 8 years and 6 months imprisonment

Warren McHugh, aged 20, of Palm Hill, Oxton, participated in a gang robbery on May 23, 2025, targeting a 14-year-old boy on Old Chester Road in Birkenhead at 4.20pm. The gang threw bricks at the boy, assaulted him, knocked him off his pedal bike, and stole it, causing a serious head injury requiring brain surgery. A member of the public who intervened was also targeted with bricks. McHugh was arrested the following day and charged on May 26, 2025, with section 18 wounding, robbery, and violent disorder.

12 months added for breach of suspended sentence order. Pleaded not guilty but convicted.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Craig Middleton

Rape

January 21, 2026

Sentence: 10 years imprisonment

Craig Middleton, 53, from Wirral, raped a woman aged in her 20s at two properties in Leeds in 2009. The case was part of a Merseyside Police investigation. He was convicted following a trial where he denied the offences.

Convicted of two counts of rape after denying the offences; jury saw through his lies. Detective Inspector Peter Rexwinkel praised the victim for undergoing the trial trauma.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Diarmuid Mccarthy

Theft

January 21, 2026

Sentence: 5-year Criminal Behaviour Order

Diarmuid McCarthy, 54, of no fixed abode, was caught stealing items from Sainsbury’s and other shops in Southport, leading to a ban from several stores including Sainsbury's, B&M, and M&S.

Convicted of stealing items from Sainsbury’s. The CBO prohibits him from entering Sainsbury’s on Lord Street, B&M on both Lord Street and Tulketh Street, Marks & Spencer on Chapel Street, TG Jones on Chapel Street or any shop/store after being issued with a banning notice.

Sources: lancs.live

Kamal Snagg

Possession of crack cocaine with intent to supply

January 20, 2026

Sentence: 28-month community order with 180 hours of unpaid work and rehabilitation activity requirement of up to 25 days, plus £150 court costs

On November 15, 2024, shortly before 12.30am, Kamal Snagg was caught in the back of a taxi on Berry Street, Liverpool city centre, next to St Luke's Church (Bombed Out Church), dealing crack cocaine in a hand-to-hand transaction with Roy Walker. He was found with a small amount of cannabis, and a search of his home on Aigburth Road revealed £70 of crack cocaine, empty snap bags, and digital scales with white powder residue. Phone analysis showed messages offering various cannabis products for sale. Snagg claimed he was coerced due to threats to stab his little sister over a drug debt owed by his mother, and that the drugs belonged to someone named 'Benjy'. He admitted the offenses under duress but acted freely to help his mother.

Of previous good character, aged 19 at time of offending. Pleaded guilty. Judge noted difficult background, trauma, and intention to join the army. Warned not to waste the chance and to stop using cannabis.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Bradley Moore

Possession of cocaine with intent to supply and being concerned in the supply of cocaine

January 19, 2026

Sentence: 3 years and 9 months imprisonment

Bradley Moore, aged 25, of Brook Cottage Close in St Helens, ran two county lines supply chains dealing cocaine in the St Helens area. From February to March 2025, he operated the first line, sending flare messages to up to 983 recipients advertising 'Power flake' cocaine. On March 26, 2025, police searched a property on Park Road, finding 57.6g of cocaine, cannabis, and cash; Moore was heavily intoxicated and taken to Whiston Hospital. He resumed operations after a court appearance on October 24, 2025, turning his phone back on by 5pm that evening. The second line, starting in August 2025, involved 4,429 bulk messages and significant traffic. On November 7, 2025, police seized phones and cannabis from his home. He claimed threats but admitted the offences. He has 14 prior convictions for 18 offences, including drug possession, but none for supply.

First custodial sentence. Pleaded guilty to possession of cocaine with intent to supply and two counts of being concerned in the supply of cocaine. Sentence reduced by 113 days for time on electronically monitored curfew. Recorder Andrew Vinson noted significant role, expected financial reward, running two county lines, previous convictions, and on bail for further offence. Defendant has been abstaining from drugs and working in prison kitchen.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Nerissa Powell

Theft

January 19, 2026

Sentence: two-year community order with a rehabilitation activity requirement of up to 25 days, a nine-month drug rehabilitation requirement and a building choices programme, fined £100

On September 21, 2024, at around 3am in the Islington area of Liverpool city centre, 21-year-old university student Lewis Clayton was walking home to his halls of residence after a night out, having consumed six or seven alcoholic drinks. Nerissa Powell, aged 37, approached him, engaged in conversation, laughed and joked with him. After briefly parting ways, Powell returned while another woman used Mr Clayton's phone. Powell put her arms around him in a hug and stole his heavy gold link chain necklace, valued at £8,000 and insured for £14,000. The next morning, Mr Clayton noticed the chain missing, used his phone records to trace it, and recovered it from a pawnbrokers in Belle Vale Shopping Centre where Powell had sold it for £3,000 later that morning, as shown on CCTV. Police confirmed her involvement. Powell denied the theft in interview, claiming she pawned it for others. She committed further shoplifting and drug possession offences while awaiting sentence due to long-term class A drug addiction. A co-defendant, Justine Barr, had charges dropped.

Pleaded guilty to theft and failing to surrender to bail. Has 25 previous convictions for 44 offences including theft, fraud and handling stolen goods. Gap in offending from 2010 to 2023 when employed. Failed to attend earlier hearing due to fear and family illness. Judge noted degree of planning but not sophisticated, item recovered, and recent lack of major offending.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Nimalarajah Mathiyadaranam

Murder

January 16, 2026

Sentence: life imprisonment with a minimum term of 29 years

On June 20, 2025, Nimalarajah Mathiyadaranam, aged 47, premeditatedly stabbed his estranged wife Nilani Nimalarajah, aged 44, to death in the shop where she worked, Low Cost Food and Wine on Stanley Road in Bootle. Motivated by anger over not being invited to a family celebration for his daughter's first menstrual period, he purchased a block of knives from Asda supermarket while disguised, stashed them in a JD Sports bag, travelled by bus to the area, and waited until the shop was empty. He entered around 5pm, stabbed her 18 times targeting her chest, head, abdomen, and other areas with a large knife, which snapped due to the ferocity of the merciless, sustained, and brutal attack. The assault was captured on CCTV, showing him dragging her, jabbing at her face and eyes, and manipulating the knife in her abdomen to ensure death. After the attack, he drank whisky and ingested pesticide in an attempt to poison himself. Their 17-year-old daughter witnessed the aftermath and called for help. Nilani suffered 14 stab wounds and four slash wounds, piercing her lung, heart, skull, and spine, and was pronounced dead at 5.53pm in hospital. Mathiyadaranam had prior convictions for violence and was under restraining orders prohibiting contact with Nilani and his eldest daughter due to previous harassment and assault.

Pleaded guilty to murder after initially denying the charge. Judge Brian Cummings KC highlighted premeditation, domestic violence, previous convictions, breach of restraining orders, public location, alcohol influence, and devastating impact on children as aggravating factors. No meaningful remorse shown.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Nimalarajah Mathiyaparanam

Murder

January 16, 2026

Sentence: life imprisonment with a minimum term of 28 years

On Friday 20 June 2025, Nimalarajah Mathiyaparanam, 47, of Warrington Road in Widnes, fatally stabbed his estranged wife, 44-year-old Nilani Nimalarajah, inside Low Cost Food and Wine on Stanley Road in Bootle, shortly after 5.05pm. Nilani suffered multiple stab wounds and was taken to hospital but passed away a short time later. Mathiyaparanam was detained at the scene but ingested an unknown substance, becoming critically ill and requiring hospital treatment for several weeks before recovering. The incident was witnessed by members of the public during rush hour traffic.

Admitted murder and possession of a knife blade/sharp pointed article in a public place on the second day of his trial. Had previously pleaded guilty to breaching his restraining order. The attack was pre-meditated and targeted, occurring in a public place during rush hour.

Sources: dailypost.co.uk

Peter Langley

Manslaughter by diminished responsibility

January 16, 2026

Sentence: hospital order with restrictions

Peter Langley killed his 77-year-old father, Alfred Langley, by inflicting a head injury at their home on Clipsley Lane in Haydock. The incident occurred on October 29, 2024, and was reported to Merseyside Police shortly after 10pm. Alfred was found dead inside the house. There was no history of domestic abuse in the family.

Pleaded guilty to manslaughter by diminished responsibility. To be served in custody at a secure hospital.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Stephen Phillips

Possession with intent to supply cocaine

January 16, 2026

Sentence: 9 years imprisonment

Stephen Phillips, 56, of St Helens, was stopped by Cheshire Police on October 16, 2025, while driving northbound on the M6. Officers discovered three cardboard boxes in the rear of his van, two of which contained 40kg of cocaine with an estimated street value of up to £4m. He was arrested at the scene and the investigation was led by the Merseyside Organised Crime Partnership between the National Crime Agency and Merseyside Police.

Pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply cocaine. Investigation led by Merseyside Organised Crime Partnership.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Valentin Vukulaj

Production of cannabis

January 15, 2026

Sentence: 20 months imprisonment

Valentin Vukulaj was involved in a large-scale cannabis cultivation operation at an address on Aigburth Road, Liverpool. Police attended the property on December 16, 2025, after reports of cannabis production. They discovered five growing rooms containing 504 cannabis plants, along with lighting, ventilation, and hydroponic equipment; the electrical supply had been bypassed. Vukulaj was found hiding in the loft and arrested. He claimed he was offered work by unknown males to tend to the already established grow, to pay off debts from a failed vegetable growing business in Albania due to the COVID pandemic. He entered the UK illegally by small boat. The operation had a predicted yield of 14-42kg of cannabis, worth £56,000-£254,000 wholesale or £141,000-£634,000 street value. He was never paid and claimed unawareness of the illegality in the UK.

Pleaded guilty to production of cannabis. Of previous good character, under pressure to pay back a debt in Albania, first time in custody, does not speak English, away from family. Assisted by interpreter. Appeared via video link from HMP Liverpool.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Peter Myers

Sexual assault of a child under 13

January 15, 2026

Sentence: two-year community order, 30 rehabilitation days, alcohol abstinence monitoring order, £500 compensation

In July 2024, Peter Myers, 57, of Ringcroft Road in Broadgreen, approached a 12-year-old boy and his 11-year-old friend while they walked home from school. He followed them, made inappropriate comments calling the victim handsome and touching his body including his bottom, referred to the younger boy as 'sexy kecks', boasted of being a professional boxer called 'Big P', and offered to pay for the victim's gym training. The victim sat on a wall where Myers grabbed his hand and placed his hand on the victim's thigh. The incident was reported to school safeguarding, parents, and police. CCTV identified Myers, who was arrested on August 11, 2024. He denied the assault initially but was found guilty at trial in December 2025 of sexual assault of a child under 13.

Found guilty after trial. No prior sexual convictions. Poor health considered. Judge noted impact on victim. Restraining order, five-year sex offenders register, five-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Christopher Lawton

Assault occasioning actual bodily harm

January 15, 2026

Sentence: 18 months imprisonment

On September 30, 2025, at around 11.30pm, Christopher Lawton, aged 45, of Mount Pleasant Avenue in St Helens, pushed victim Damon Birch out of Perry's Bar on Duke Street in St Helens and kicked him forcefully in the head while he was on the floor, rendering him unconscious for up to four minutes. The attack was motivated by a mistaken belief, based on information from a woman in the bar, that Birch was a rapist, though Birch had no such convictions. Lawton walked away from the scene. Birch sustained extensive bruising to his chest and abdomen, constant shoulder pain, headaches, and significant mental trauma, including anxiety and fear of going out. Lawton has prior convictions, including 12 years for rape and indecent assault in 2004 for attacking a mother and daughter.

Admitted one count of assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Judge noted the vicious attack on a defenceless individual while intoxicated, increasing seriousness. Mitigating factors include guilty plea, anxiety and paranoid psychosis, and caring for terminally ill mother. 10-year restraining order imposed.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

James Owen

Fraud by abuse of position

January 15, 2026

Sentence: 16 months imprisonment suspended for 2 years, 200 hours unpaid work, 20 rehabilitation days

James Owen, a 36-year-old dad-of-one from Widnes, worked for Liverpool City Council's market services between 2019 and 2024. He used the council's credit card (PDQ) machines to process 341 fraudulent refunds directly into his personal bank account between October 2023 and September 2024, stealing a total of £39,973. An internal review uncovered the discrepancy.

Pleaded guilty to fraud by abuse of position. Life spiralled out of control following death of a friend, turned to alcohol and cocaine, accruing unmanageable debt. Judge noted council would seek recovery through civil action.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Callum Jones

Assault causing actual bodily harm

January 13, 2026

Sentence: 4 years and 6 months imprisonment

Callum Jones subjected his victim to more than two years of harassment and abuse, including repeated physical assaults requiring hospital treatment, non-fatal strangulation, criminal damage, coercive and controlling behaviour, threats to kill, threats towards children, and harassment. The victim reported numerous incidents to Merseyside Police involving damage to her address. Jones was arrested and charged in 2025. He resides at Murat Grove, Waterloo.

Pleaded not specified. Also given a 15-year restraining order against his victim. Detective Constable Ben Thomas commented on the shocking period of abuse.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Carl Powell

Perverting the course of justice

January 13, 2026

Sentence: 15 months imprisonment, suspended for 15 months

Carl Powell, 47, father of Caitlin Powell, from Makin Street, Walton, assisted in concealing the dog attack on his 26-day-old grandson by helping fabricate the story of a stranger's dog attack. He claimed to have thrown the dog Boss in the river but actually handed it to Rebecca Cahill without disclosing the incident. The attack occurred on October 4, 2023, and the baby was taken to Ormskirk Hospital the next day.

Admitted to perverting the course of justice. Judge noted actions driven by fear of losing daughter and grandson being taken into care. Has 24 prior convictions for various offences.

Sources: lancs.live

Anthony Burns

Causing death by dangerous driving

January 13, 2026

Sentence: 10 years imprisonment, disqualified from driving for 150 months

On July 10, 2024, Anthony Burns, driving an HGV at 56mph in torrential rain and advisory 40mph conditions on the westbound M62 near junction 8 at Warrington, failed to notice a queue of stationary traffic caused by a temporary closure. He ploughed into the rear of an Uber taxi driven by Rashid Mehmood, which was transporting Ryanair pilots Jamie Fernandes and Matthew Greenhalgh from Luton Airport to Liverpool John Lennon Airport. The taxi was crushed between two lorries, killing the two pilots who were asleep in the back and seriously injuring the driver. Burns claimed he was on autopilot and did not register the traffic until too late, with CCTV showing he braked only one second before impact. No defects in the vehicle, no phone use, and no drugs or alcohol were factors.

Admitted two counts of causing death by dangerous driving and one count of causing serious injury by dangerous driving. Judge noted profound remorse, pre-existing mental disorder exacerbated by the incident, and a generally good driving record despite historic convictions. Must serve at least two thirds of the prison term before eligibility for release and pass an extended retest to drive again.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Aaron Newsome

Perverting the course of justice

January 13, 2026

Sentence: 12 months imprisonment, suspended for 15 months

Aaron Newsome, 24, from Evington in Skelmersdale, along with Caitlin Powell, 20, fabricated a story that their 26-day-old son was attacked by a stranger's dog at a bus stop to cover up an incident where their French bulldog, Boss, bit off the baby's toes on October 4, 2023. They arrived at Ormskirk Hospital on October 5, 2023, with the injured baby. Text messages revealed their lies and Newsome's cruel joke about needing a one-legged sleep suit. He became angry when police wanted to examine his phone.

Admitted to perverting the course of justice. Judge noted panic and shock, but primary concern should have been protecting the child. Assessed at low risk of reconviction.

Sources: lancs.live

James Flaherty

Distributing indecent images of children

January 12, 2026

Sentence: 3 years imprisonment

James Flaherty, aged 28 and formerly of Boundary Street in Kirkdale, was caught sharing and distributing indecent images of children via messaging apps Telegram and TeleGuard between May and October 2024. Police seized a Samsung Galaxy tablet from his home on October 22, 2024, containing 134 category A images/videos (most serious abuse), 57 category B, and 97 category C, depicting male and female children aged 4 to 16. Evidence showed at least 10 chats where he traded images on a 'one for one' basis. This occurred during drink and drug binges, shortly after his previous sentence ended. He claimed no recollection due to substance misuse but was deemed a high-risk sex offender.

Admitted three counts of distributing images of children, possession of indecent images, three charges of making indecent images and three breaches of a SHPO. Judge Gary Woodhall noted the offending was sexually motivated and required him to own up to his attraction to children. Prior convictions include 40 months for attempted sexual communications with a child and distributing indecent images in December 2020, and a four-month suspended sentence in September 2023 for possession of a bladed article and cannabis.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Terrance Junior James Smith

Being concerned in the supply of crack cocaine and heroin

January 12, 2026

Sentence: 4 years, 3 months imprisonment

Terrance Junior James Smith and his brother operated a county line in Woodchurch, exploiting a 16-year-old boy to sell heroin and crack cocaine. They were arrested in May 2025 when officers seized drugs and mobile phones during an investigation led by Project Medusa. The gang took advantage of the vulnerable teenager, promising riches but exposing him to crime and violence.

Of no fixed address. Pleaded guilty to being concerned in the supply of crack cocaine and heroin. Part of a county lines operation exploiting a 16-year-old boy.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

William Patrick James Smith

Being concerned in the supply of crack cocaine and heroin

January 12, 2026

Sentence: 6 years imprisonment

William Patrick James Smith and his brother operated a county line in Woodchurch, exploiting a 16-year-old boy to sell heroin and crack cocaine. They were arrested in May 2025 when officers seized drugs and mobile phones during an investigation led by Project Medusa. The gang took advantage of the vulnerable teenager, promising riches but exposing him to crime and violence.

Of Milton Crescent, Heswall. Sentenced for being concerned in the supply of crack cocaine and heroin. Part of a county lines operation exploiting a 16-year-old boy.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Ryan Gee

Attempted murder

January 12, 2026

Sentence: life imprisonment with a minimum term of 15 years and 193 days

On July 22, 2025, Ryan Gee, 35, attended a probation appointment at The Pavilions in Ashton-on-Ribble, Preston, while on supervision from a previous sentence. During the meeting with a female probation officer in her 30s and a male support officer, he armed himself with a large kitchen knife and an imitation black handgun from his rucksack. He stabbed the female officer in the shoulder and under her armpit, chased her to reception, and stabbed her again in the stomach, causing four wounds requiring surgery. He then locked himself in reception with a female receptionist, pointing the imitation firearm at her head while holding the knife, and stated he wouldn't harm her. He left a letter blaming another probation officer and had a notebook detailing his grievances. Police arrived quickly, tasered and arrested him after he said 'you're going to have to shoot me'. The victim received first aid and was discharged from Royal Preston Hospital on September 2, 2025, with permanent physical and severe psychological impacts.

Pleaded guilty to attempted murder, false imprisonment, possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence, two offences of possession of a bladed article and threatening a person with an offensive weapon. If granted parole, on licence for life.

Sources: lancs.live

Yahya Hassan

Possession of class A and B drugs with intent to supply

January 9, 2026

Sentence: 4 years imprisonment

Yahya Hassan, a 25-year-old business student at Liverpool John Moores University, operated a drug dealing operation from Liverpool city centre and his student flat on Skelhorne Street. On February 1, 2024, he was caught with a bag containing £1,035 of cannabis, £418 of cocaine, £186 of MDMA, £68 of ketamine, £30 of LSD, and hallucinogenic 2CB, plus £166.80 cash and two phones with messages evidencing drug sales. After release on bail, on October 31, 2024, police found £6,185 of cannabis, £250 of magic mushrooms, £1,388 of cocaine, £108 of ketamine, £90 of LSD, £205-£410 of MDMA and 2CB tablets, £369 of MDMA, a vape with drug residue, and £8,760 cash in his flat. He issued 'menus' of available drugs including cocaine, LSD, magic mushrooms, ketamine, MDMA, and cannabis to customers. This led to him being expelled from his course one month before completion.

Admitted seven counts of possession of a class A drug with intent to supply and four counts of possession of a class B drug with intent to supply. Judge Charlotte Crangle noted his intelligence and community involvement but highlighted the repeat offending after the first arrest. Defence mentioned family circumstances including terminally ill father and delay in proceedings.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Steven Yates

Sexual abuse of a vulnerable adult

January 9, 2026

Sentence: 4 years and 9 months imprisonment

Steven Yates, 47, of Derby Road in Southport, committed a campaign of sexual abuse against a severely disabled woman in her 30s with learning difficulties since birth, permanent disability requiring crutches and wheelchair, and mental age of 6-12. While her mother was at the supermarket, Yates engaged in sexual activity without her capacity to consent, including rubbing and stroking her arms and legs, kissing her sexually with tongues, touching her breasts over clothing, making her stroke his thighs while discussing arousal, and asking to have sex in his bedroom. He threatened to have her put in a home if she told her mother. Later, he laughed at her outside Farmfoods. The abuse occurred prior to reporting, with a three-year delay until trial.

Found guilty of nine sexual offences by a jury following a trial. Maintains innocence. Previous conviction for malicious communications in 2020. Mental health issues including PTSD, depression, anxiety, self-harm, and suicide attempts. Physical health issues requiring walking sticks and carers. Wife is blind and reliant on him for care. Three-year delay in case. Sentencing by Judge Gary Woodhall. Also received indefinite sexual harm prevention order, 15-year restraining order, and lifetime sex offenders' register requirement.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Steven Naylor

Causing death by dangerous driving

January 8, 2026

Sentence: 12 years imprisonment

On April 25, 2021, Steven Naylor, aged 41, drove his Audi A4 at speeds up to 120mph while heavily under the influence of alcohol on the M62 motorway after leaving his wife's birthday party. He aggressively flashed his headlights and collided with the rear of 23-year-old Owen Baugh's motorbike near junction seven for Rainhill. Mr Baugh was thrown into the carriageway and fatally struck by another vehicle. Naylor's car veered off the road, crashing through a wooden fence and impaling him with a piece of fencing, causing serious injuries. He was hospitalized until June 10, 2021. A strong smell of alcohol was noted at the scene. Subsequently, Naylor and his wife exaggerated his injuries to avoid providing a blood sample and to claim unfitness to plead, leading to delays in prosecution. Evidence including videos and photos showed him engaging in normal activities such as playing rugby, kayaking, holidaying in Dublin, attending festivals, and shopping independently.

Pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving and perverting the course of justice. Banned from driving for 138 months and required to pass an extended retest. No previous convictions. Diagnosed with autism, history of mental health issues and family losses.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Rachel Tinsley

Wounding without intent

January 8, 2026

Sentence: two-year community order with a nine-month alcohol treatment requirement and a rehabilitation activity requirement of up to 25 days

On May 20, 2025, Rachel Tinsley, aged 39, met Byron Broadhurst in Warrington for drinking and sex. After consuming significant alcohol, she became agitated when he refused to buy more alcohol or drugs. She swung a bag containing a vodka bottle at his head in the street, leading to a physical altercation. Back at his flat on Bewsey Road, she armed herself with a metal and glass lantern and smashed it against the side of his head, causing profuse bleeding and a wound requiring five stitches, leaving a permanent scar. Broadhurst thought he was going to die. Tinsley left the scene and later claimed she only whacked him with his car key. She has 14 prior convictions for 26 offences, including 18 months for wounding in 2019. The incident occurred in a toxic relationship with prior police involvement.

Pleaded guilty to wounding without intent. Judge Charlotte Crangle gave her a chance to address alcohol issues, considering time spent on remand and curfew equivalent to approximately five months. Restraining order banning contact with victim for five years.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Lisa Naylor

Perverting the course of justice

January 8, 2026

Sentence: 54 months imprisonment

Lisa Naylor, aged 40, assisted her husband Steven in a cover-up following the fatal crash on April 25, 2021, by exaggerating the extent of his injuries to prevent blood sample analysis and claim unfitness to plead, causing significant delays in the prosecution. This involved misrepresentations to medical experts, police, and courts, despite evidence of Steven's active lifestyle including rugby, kayaking, holidays, and shopping. The deceit prolonged the agony for the victim's family while the Naylors enjoyed normal activities.

Pleaded guilty to perverting the course of justice. No previous convictions. Suffered personal tragedies including the murder of her brother and death of her child. Described as the 'glue of the family' with charitable work and caring responsibilities.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Lisa Haughey

Conveying a prohibited article into a prison

January 6, 2026

Sentence: 12 months imprisonment suspended for 2 years, 125 hours unpaid work, rehabilitation activity requirement up to 10 days

Lisa Haughey, 42, from Greenwood Avenue in Wigan, agreed to smuggle cannabis into HMP Liverpool for £500 to support her cocaine addiction, which worsened after her father's death in December 2023. She initially backed out twice but relented after threats to smash up her house. On December 13, 2024, during her third visit, she passed a parcel containing 207g of cannabis resin (street value £1,000-£2,000, higher in prison) to inmate James O'Brien, hidden in his trousers. Guards discovered it via CCTV and search. Her phone revealed messages showing pressure from organisers. She has a 13-year-old daughter living with her grandmother and a 21-month-old daughter living with her. She has since moved, quit cocaine, addressed mental health, and secured a job as a support worker for drug addicts.

Pleaded guilty to conveying a prohibited article into a prison. Judge noted her drug misuse, caring responsibilities, and progress in rehabilitation. Previous convictions for drink driving and possession of cocaine do not aggravate. Warned that any further offence will activate the sentence.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Ermal Tarja

Production of cannabis

January 6, 2026

Sentence: 20 months imprisonment

Ermal Tarja, aged 23, was smuggled into the UK in a lorry approximately four months before his arrest to work as a gardener in a large-scale cannabis production site located in a maisonette above commercial premises on Aigburth Road. The operation consisted of four separate growing rooms, one active with 74 plants and hydroponic equipment, capable of producing 2kg to 6.2kg of cannabis with a street value of £20,720 to £93,240. The site was raided by Merseyside Police on December 8, 2025, where Tarja was found hiding under a bed on the second floor with £87.23 in cash; the electricity supply had been dangerously bypassed. He was paid £500 per month to tend the plants and only allowed to leave for food shopping. This was due to his father's debt of 10 million Albanian lek (approximately £90,000), with threats that his family would be kidnapped if he did not work.

Pleaded guilty to production of cannabis. No previous convictions. Sentenced by Recorder Anna Pope, who noted his young age, lesser role under direction, pressure and exploitation, remorse, and early guilty plea. Likely to lead to deportation due to illegal status.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Edward Griffith-Davies

Causing a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity

January 5, 2026

Sentence: 4 years and 4 months imprisonment

Edward Griffith-Davies, 42, joined a depraved Telegram group and four other online forums for child sexual abuse material over more than a decade. To gain access, he photographed a young boy naked holding a sign with the group's name and shared it, expressing desire for further sexual activity with the boy. He became a moderator of the group, described as an organised criminal group. Police investigation identified his involvement in discussions on child sexual abuse. He downloaded over 100 category A indecent images since 2011, 300 category B, and 500+ category C; distributed 27 category A and 10 category B items in six months; possessed six prohibited images and 24 extreme pornographic images involving animals. Formerly of St Helens, now of Brytirion in Bedwas, South Wales.

Pleaded guilty. No previous convictions. Shown regret and remorse. Judge noted profound impact on victim and defendant's sexual interest in children. Also received 15-year restraining order, indefinite sexual harm prevention order, and must sign sex offenders' register for life.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

James Thompson

Supply of Cocaine

January 5, 2026

Sentence: 28 months imprisonment

James Thompson, 21, of Baltimore Drive in St Helens, was caught by undercover police acting suspiciously outside Morrisons Daily on Peckers Hill Road on December 11, 2024. He was observed handing an item to a man, who was found with a small quantity of cocaine. Thompson's phone contained messages from the preceding month indicating involvement in supplying class A drug cocaine to a small group of friends and associates. He attempted to flee but was apprehended. The offending stemmed from financial difficulties, including thousands of pounds in drug debts from cannabis use, leading him to supply cocaine while not working and facing relationship issues.

Admitted being concerned in the supply of cocaine. Judge noted small scale operation, mitigating factors including full responsibility, relationship breakdown, drug debt, steps to address behaviour, full-time work, improved relationship with daughter, immaturity, and 12-month delay. Defence highlighted out-of-character offending, abstinence from cannabis, employment, and reconciliation efforts.

Sources: manchestereveningnews.co.uk

Daniel Pettifer

Using threatening behaviour, assault and criminal damage

December 30, 2025

Sentence: 1 year imprisonment

On the evening of February 28, 2025, Daniel Pettifer, aged 35, of Croyde Road in Speke, attended the Premier, a JD Wetherspoon pub in Widnes. After consuming excessive alcohol, his drunken behaviour provoked other customers, leading to a confrontation. He jumped onto a table and threw a glass and chairs. Following his arrest and release on bail, he punched a wall at the home of a woman he was with during another incident. He appeared via video link from HMP Liverpool.

Admitted using threatening behaviour, assault, criminal damage and breaching a suspended sentence order. Judge Dennis Watson KC noted that his drunken conduct initiated the violence, despite accepting some violence was used against him. Prior suspended sentence for battery, theft and criminal damage in February 2024; breached restraining order in June 2024 (2 months imprisonment) and August 2025 (community order). Mitigating factors include loss of twins carried by ex-partner, death of grandad, mental health issues including severe self-harming and recent suicide attempt; employed at Warburtons bakery with settled address, both at risk.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Demi Fitzpatrick

Owner of a dangerously out of control dog causing injury

December 29, 2025

Sentence: £120 fine, £300 compensation, £85 court costs, £48 victim surcharge

On May 21, 2025, at an address in Kirkby, Robert Gaskell was working in Demi Fitzpatrick's kitchen when her American bulldog, Capone, escaped from an upstairs bedroom where it had been secured with a baby gate that was left open. The dog bounded down the stairs, locked its jaws onto Gaskell's left cheek, and bit his arm twice, causing injuries to his face and arm. Fitzpatrick, who was trying on a dress with a friend, ran downstairs and contained the dog in the living room. The victim was taken to Aintree Hospital, unable to work for 12 days, losing £9,000 in wages, and suffered physical and mental scars including fear of dogs and nightmares.

Admitted one count of being the owner of a dangerously out of control dog causing injury. Destruction order imposed on the dog Capone. Remorseful, low risk of reoffending, no history of similar incidents with the dog.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Edward Warde

Shoplifting

December 25, 2025

Sentence: jailed

Edward Warde went on a £3,000 shoplifting spree, leading to his return to jail for Christmas. He had recently been released from prison following a previous theft of over £10,000 worth of cigarettes.

Had not long been released from prison after stealing more than £10,000-worth of cigarettes.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Rebecca Joynes

Sexual activity with a child

December 25, 2025

Sentence: banned from classroom for life

Rebecca Joynes, a teacher, was found guilty of having sexual relations with two pupils, one of whom resulted in her having a baby.

Richard Johnstone

Assault with a knife

December 25, 2025

Sentence: 7 years imprisonment

Richard Johnstone stabbed a doorman after being refused entry to a venue due to his outfit.

Ryan Kimber

Theft

December 25, 2025

Sentence: banned from entering stores

Ryan Kimber was banned from every Home Bargains, M&S, and Tesco store, and prohibited from entering any car park in Merseyside.

Sean Slattery

Aggravated burglary

December 23, 2025

Sentence: 6 years and 8 months imprisonment

On February 29, 2024, Sean Slattery, together with three or four unknown offenders, targeted a 60-year-old woman's home on Lewisham Road in Norris Green, Liverpool, in a case of mistaken identity while searching for drugs and money. The balaclava-clad gang smashed their way in via the patio door around 9.30pm. The victim, arriving home from work, heard loud bangs and locked herself in the bathroom. The intruders ransacked the house, kicked open the bathroom door, and one brandished a machete while demanding information about 'the b****' and 'where it is'. The woman was so terrified she urinated herself. They also searched the loft. After failing to find anything, they fled to a waiting car. Blood smears matching Slattery's DNA were found throughout the house, and a machete, handbag, and umbrella were recovered nearby. Slattery was arrested on March 24, 2024, with a balaclava and glove seized from his home. He had disposed of his phone used during the incident.

Admitted one count of aggravated burglary. Judge Simon Medland KC noted the offence was related to the drugs underworld and imposed a significant sentence due to the terrifying impact on the victim. Prior convictions include drug-related offences in 2016 and 2024.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Ian Pender

Assault occasioning actual bodily harm

December 23, 2025

Sentence: 27 months imprisonment

On September 8, 2025, at Emerald Francis' address on Elstead Road, Ian Pender became enraged by the barking of her Staffordshire bull terrier, Rolo. He kicked the dog, threw a coffee table at Ms Francis, slammed a door into her face causing bruising, swelling and a large lump to the temple, destroyed her mobile phone, and stabbed the dog in the garden after it bit him, leading to the dog's euthanasia. Ms Francis had to move from her home due to the incident. Pender was in possession of a knife prior to the bite.

Pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm and breaching a community order. No evidence offered on count of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. Judge noted poor criminal record, pattern of drug use and violence towards women, but acknowledged steps to address ketamine addiction. Appeared via video link from HMP Liverpool.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Allan Wood

Fraud

December 23, 2025

Sentence: 5 years and 3 months imprisonment

Allan Wood, finance director of Cammell Laird shipbuilder in Birkenhead, stole nearly £1.9 million from the company between 2007 and 2020 through fraudulent payments to his personal accounts, including £650,000 in deposits for gambling and over £200,000 for personal expenses like Champions League final tickets and football season tickets. He hid transactions by backdating them and initially lied about reimbursing corporate hospitality, later claiming they related to a covert spying investigation. Discrepancies were first flagged by Barclays in 2018, but his deception continued until he left the company in 2020 with a £100,000 payoff. The fraud placed significant financial pressure on the business, affecting employees, shareholders, and the supply chain in the Wirral area.

Pleaded guilty to four counts of fraud. No previous convictions. Judge noted abuse of position of trust and impact on the company. Personal mitigation considered, including health issues and low risk of reoffending.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Andrew Fleming

Stalking

December 22, 2025

Sentence: 7.5 years imprisonment with 3 years extended licence

Andrew Fleming, 41, of Hampton Road, Southport, stalked a woman over an 11-month period, bombarding her with threats and messages, attempting to get her fired from her job, and turning up at addresses linked to her family to find her. He also committed further offences against a member of the woman’s family while awaiting sentencing. Arrested in November 2023, charged in September 2024.

Pleaded guilty to stalking and disclosing private images. Convicted after trial of two counts of intimidation, stalking, and careless driving. Further offences committed against family member while awaiting sentencing.

Sources: lancs.live

Kyle Worthington

Being concerned in the supply of heroin

December 19, 2025

Sentence: 58 months imprisonment

On October 23, 2025, Kyle Worthington, aged 31, of Stanwood Gardens in Whiston, was stopped by police while driving his Range Rover. Officers seized £60,000 worth of heroin (1.125kg, street value £45,000 to £67,500) from a hidden compartment in his Ford Ranger and from a vent in the roof space of his home. Small amount of cannabis and drug paraphernalia were also found. He became involved in drug trafficking due to his cocaine habit following a breakup with his partner, with whom he has two children aged seven and five.

First criminal offence. Pleaded guilty. Judge noted he is a living example of how drugs destroy lives, having lost his business and restricted access to his children. No previous convictions.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Mordi Collins Chukwunonso

Sexual assault

December 19, 2025

Sentence: 8 months imprisonment

On a date not specified, a 17-year-old girl was waiting alone for a train at St Helens Central Station when Mordi Collins Chukwunonso approached her and engaged in conversation. They boarded a service bound for Liverpool Lime Street separately, but he sought her out and sat opposite her in an otherwise deserted carriage. He asked where she lived and if he could come live with her, invited her to the train toilets and back to his place. CCTV captured him stroking her leg at least twice, leaving her intimidated, frightened, and uncomfortable. She left early at Edge Hill Station and took a photo of him on her phone. The victim now feels anxious on trains and unsafe alone.

Pleaded not guilty but was convicted in absence by jury. No remorse shown, continued to deny offence. Judge noted obstructive behaviour and fixation on paperwork. Previous conviction for malicious communications in 2024.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Melvin Miller

Rape of a child under 13

December 19, 2025

Sentence: 11 years imprisonment (concurrent)

Melvin Miller, a serial paedophile, filmed himself raping a girl for eight minutes to add to his collection of over 250,000 indecent images of children. The recent charges relate to historic rape of a girl under 13, with the abuse revealed to be worse than previously known. His offending initially came to light in 2020 when a victim confided in a friend, leading to police discovery of vile images and footage of rapes and sexual abuse of two girls.

Pleaded guilty to five counts of historic rape against a girl under 13. Previously sentenced to 16 years in 2020 and 15 years in 2022, both concurrent. Judge Neil Flewitt KC described the abuse as appalling.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Louis James

Conspiracy to commit fraud

December 17, 2025

Sentence: 28 months imprisonment

Louis James, aged 37 from Lapford Crescent in Kirkby, a long-term Liverpool FC employee since 2002 and in the ticket office from 2016, abused his position to facilitate a ticket fraud scheme. He processed 40-50 discounted £9 local general sale tickets per home game using fake details and memberships, handing them over to Joseph Johnson for resale at inflated prices on secondary markets. Messages from his phone revealed daily coordination with the syndicate from 2016, discussing profits like £15,000 from 22 memberships. The operation expanded beyond Liverpool to other clubs, with James playing a key role in ticket acquisition. He was dismissed in 2018 after being observed exchanging envelopes with Johnson, leading to seizure of his phone with 250,000 messages exposing the fraud, and arrests in 2019.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit fraud by abuse of position and two counts of conspiracy to commit fraud by false representation. Former Liverpool FC ticket office employee who abused his position to process and distribute tickets. Necessary to the early stages of the conspiracy.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Liam Rice

Conspiracy to commit fraud

December 17, 2025

Sentence: 34 months imprisonment

Liam Rice, aged 35 from Mount Crescent in Kirkby, participated in a fraudulent ticket resale operation targeting Liverpool FC and other Premier League clubs. As part of the syndicate led by Joseph Johnson, Rice helped manage logistics for obtaining and reselling thousands of tickets at inflated prices, using fake memberships to access discounted local supporter tickets. The group set up Seatfinder UK in 2018, operating from an office in Kirkby with computers for harvesting tickets, and expanded to international sales, including matches against Paris Saint-Germain and Napoli. Profits reached hundreds of thousands, with one message noting £305,457.81 from the season. The scheme abused internal systems and was exposed in 2018, leading to arrests in 2019.

Pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit fraud by false representation. Described as a manager overseeing operations and logistics. Banned from acting as a company director for 8 years. Has not reoffended since 2020 and involved in community work.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

James Johnson

Conspiracy to commit fraud

December 17, 2025

Sentence: 21 months imprisonment suspended for 2 years, 150 hours unpaid work, 2-month curfew

James Johnson, aged 34 from Westcombe Road in Anfield, a former Liverpool FC tour guide reassigned to the ticket office in 2014 until 2017, aided a ticket fraud conspiracy by processing discounted local tickets using the same credit card and fake details. He collaborated with Louis James and Joseph Johnson (no relation), helping create memberships and acquire tickets for resale at inflated prices, contributing to profits of hundreds of thousands. After leaving the club, he worked briefly for the syndicate's Seatfinder UK. The scheme involved over 1,000 fake LFC memberships and expanded to other Premier League clubs. Internal audits in 2018 revealed his involvement, leading to observations of him with Joseph Johnson and eventual arrests in 2019.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit fraud by abuse of position and one count of conspiracy to commit fraud by false representation. Former Liverpool FC employee who assisted in ticket acquisition and later worked for Seatfinder UK for small wages. No previous relevant convictions; has changed his life positively.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

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