Liverpool Crown Court Sentencing Results

Explore 467 verdicts at Liverpool Crown Court (Liverpool). Updated with the latest court outcomes.

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

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

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

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

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

Joseph Johnson

Conspiracy to commit fraud

December 17, 2025

Sentence: 54 months imprisonment

Joseph Johnson, aged 37 from Chelford Road in Eccleston, St Helens, orchestrated a sophisticated ticket fraud scheme involving collusion with Liverpool FC ticket office staff. Over several years, more than 1,000 fake LFC memberships were created using false names and details to obtain discounted £9 tickets intended for local fans. These tickets were resold at significantly inflated prices on secondary websites like Viagogo, StubHub, and Ticketbis, generating hundreds of thousands of pounds in profit. The operation expanded internationally, including to other Premier League clubs, and involved setting up Seatfinder UK, registered in Dubai, with an office in Kirkby. The scheme was uncovered in 2018 through internal audits and led to arrests in 2019. Johnson boasted about his role in WhatsApp messages, referring to himself as 'Billy big balls'.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit fraud by abuse of position and two counts of conspiracy to commit fraud by false representation. Described as the mastermind of the operation. Banned from acting as a company director for 8 years.

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

Adam Hardman

Sexual assault of a child

December 16, 2025

Sentence: 4 years imprisonment

Adam Hardman, 39, from Norley Road in Leigh, was found guilty of two counts of sexually assaulting a child. The incidents were reported by the victim, leading to his arrest and prosecution. He appeared in court following an earlier hearing where the guilty verdict was delivered.

Found guilty on two counts of sexual assault. Ordered to sign the sex offenders register and handed a Sexual Harm Prevention Order. Victim commended for bravery by DC Caroline Wharmby.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Colin Anditon

Supply of Class A drugs

December 16, 2025

Sentence: 3 years and 5 months imprisonment

Colin Anditon was caught dealing drugs on two occasions in 2024. On January 16, 2024, in Birkenhead, he was observed engaging in a drug deal in an alleyway off Corporation Road with a female taxi passenger, selling crack cocaine and heroin. He was detained with £46 cash, and his associate Leanne Taylor had 51 wraps of heroin and five wraps of crack cocaine concealed in her underwear. The taxi passenger possessed two wraps of crack cocaine and one wrap of heroin. On May 2, 2024, he was arrested in Oxton after entering and leaving a property on Beresford Road; a search found 20 wraps of heroin and nine wraps of crack cocaine in a coat belonging to him. The offences involved county lines drug dealing.

Sentenced for drug dealing offences in January and May 2024. Previously served 25 years to life in the USA for involvement in a drive-by shooting, transferred to UK in 2012. Recalled to prison on licence after new arrests. Has 13 prior convictions for 26 offences. Mental health issues noted.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Paul Doyle

Dangerous driving and attempting to cause grievous bodily harm with intent

December 16, 2025

Sentence: 21 years and 6 months imprisonment

On May 26, 2025, during celebrations for Liverpool FC’s Premier League title, Paul Doyle, 54, drove his car into crowds on Dale Street in Liverpool city centre, ploughing into pedestrians including overturning a baby’s pram and trapping people under the vehicle. He had previously followed traffic measures but lost control, using his car as a weapon with intent to cause serious harm. Footage showed aggressive driving, undertaking vehicles, ignoring hazards, shouting obscenities, and continuing despite pauses. Victims included 29 people aged from six months to 77 years, with severe physical and psychological injuries such as Teddy Eveson (6 months) thrown 15ft, Susan Passey (77) spending 27 nights in hospital and fearing permanent mobility issues, and others suffering PTSD and trauma.

Pleaded guilty to all 31 charges on the second day of his trial after a jury had been sworn in. Must serve at least two thirds of his sentence. Judge noted prolonged and shockingly bad driving generating fear and panic, driven by impatience and arrogance.

Sources: bristolpost.co.uk

Sean Duffin

Rape

December 16, 2025

Sentence: 12 years imprisonment

Sean Duffin, 46, of no fixed abode, assaulted, raped, and strangled a woman at an address in Wirral in July 2023. He denied the charges but was found guilty by a jury at Liverpool Crown Court.

Found guilty by jury after denying offences; handed a lifetime restraining order and placed on the Sex Offender Register for life. Detective Sergeant Rebecca Robinson noted that Duffin put his victim through trial trauma.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

William Osu

Fraud

December 16, 2025

Sentence: jailed

Officers found William Osu's 'graft device', leading to his condemnation for preying on vulnerable people. Specific details of the crime involve fraudulent activities targeting vulnerable individuals.

Condemned for 'preying' on vulnerable people after officers found his 'graft device'.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Philip Darby

Wounding with intent

December 12, 2025

Sentence: 9 years imprisonment with 5 years extended licence

Philip Darby, aged 62, of Beech Rise in Kirkby, attacked his neighbour Matthew Hilton with a meat cleaver on May 8, 2025, following a feud lasting over seven years. The assault occurred at a block of flats on Beech Rise, where Hilton presented severely injured with his nose and chin hanging off and a slice to his neck. Hilton was placed in a coma for six weeks, required a tracheostomy, blood transfusions, and hospitalisation for over four months until October 3, 2025. He now suffers permanent facial scarring, memory loss, and requires a pureed diet. Darby confessed to police, stating the victim deserved it due to prior threats and attacks. He has prior convictions for battery in 2008 and possession of a bladed article in 2018 related to the same feud.

Admitted wounding with intent. Sentenced on basis of excessive self defence following provocation. Deemed a dangerous offender due to severity of violence, prior convictions, and lack of remorse. Judge noted good work record and health issues in mitigation.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Christopher Evans

Sexual assault of a child

December 12, 2025

Sentence: 12 years imprisonment

Christopher Evans, 63, of Clock Face Road in St Helens, committed a series of child sex offences against the same victim between 2023 and 2024, including two counts of sexual assault, possessing indecent images, and causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity.

Found guilty of two counts of sexual assault; previously admitted possessing indecent images and causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity. Described as a 'depraved' paedophile by police.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Aaron Terry

Assault occasioning actual bodily harm

December 11, 2025

Sentence: 2 years imprisonment

On April 27, 2025, Aaron Terry, aged 32, of Ferrey Road in Fazakerley, approached Nikita Blake, a woman he knew from childhood and had 'bad blood' with, who was standing alone outside the Blarney Stone pub on Renshaw Street in Liverpool city centre. CCTV footage captured Terry grabbing her by the neck, forcing her to the ground, repeatedly punching her in the head, and delivering a vicious knee strike to her face, rendering her unconscious for approximately 10 to 20 seconds. Members of the public assisted and called emergency services. The assault was described as unprovoked, sustained, and aggressive, targeting a vulnerable lone woman at night. No medical evidence or victim statement was presented, but the judge deemed the loss of consciousness a serious physical injury with substantial impact.

Admitted one count of assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Restraining order for 5 years preventing contact with victim Nikita Blake. Judge noted prior convictions for violent disorder (2011) and production of cannabis (2014, suspended sentence). Described as having flawed thinking and aggression but capable of rehabilitation. Primary carer for dependent children, including a young child with kidney problems.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Carl Aldridge

Conspiracy to supply class A and B drugs

December 11, 2025

Sentence: 11 years imprisonment

Carl Aldridge, aged 38 and of no fixed address but formerly of Garston, operated as a high-level drug dealer using the EncroChat handle 'Lily Buffalo'. Over a seven-month period prior to 2020, he plotted with associates including 'Mr Kipling', 'Crab Cookie', and 'Mr Wales' to supply 3kg of heroin, 2kg of cocaine, 23kg of ketamine, and 21kg of cannabis. He exported up to 14kg of cannabis to the Isle of Man at a time, using a fake removals company named 'Moovers' to package shipments as furniture boxes, double or triple vacuum-packed and smothered in Vicks vapour rub or Tiger Balm to disguise the smell. Identified via fingerprints and self-sent photos, he evaded capture for five years before handing himself in at St Anne Street Police Station on August 5, 2025.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to export cannabis and conspiracy to supply heroin, cocaine, ketamine and cannabis. Judge Garrett Byrne noted the defendant's entrenchment in drug supply, accepted his sincerity in remorse, and considered his self-surrender and references in mitigation. Prior convictions include a suspended sentence in 2014 for production of cannabis.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Ryan Mccormick

Conspiracy to supply cocaine and conspiracy to possess a firearm without a certificate

December 11, 2025

Sentence: 9 years imprisonment

Ryan McCormick, aged 43, of Elsie Road in Anfield, operated under the handle 'Grey Farmer' on EncroChat in spring 2020, communicating with 17 users for the wholesale purchase and supply of at least 3kg of cocaine, including exchanging images of kilogram blocks. He also conspired to acquire and sell firearms, discussing 9mm handguns and Glocks at discounted prices of £6,500 each, intending to profit by selling to criminal associates. A Rolex watch and high-value designer goods were seized from his home upon arrest on October 2, 2025. His actions were motivated by a devastating health diagnosis during lockdown, aiming to secure his family's financial future.

Admitted conspiracy to possess a firearm without a certificate and conspiracy to supply cocaine. Judge likened his case to Breaking Bad due to health diagnosis leading to criminality. One prior conviction for assault occasioning actual bodily harm in July 2022. Father of six, in remission from illness, expressed remorse.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Richard Senior

Possession of heroin and crack cocaine with intent to supply

December 10, 2025

Sentence: 2 years and 6 months imprisonment

On April 26, 2023, at around 8.15pm, Richard Senior was spotted by undercover police selling drugs outside Morrisons supermarket in Southport to a group of known drug users alongside Hannah Conlan. They entered the store and were detained. Senior was found with £120 cash. A strip search revealed 16.99g of crack cocaine and 12.8g of heroin, valued at around £2,880. He was acting on behalf of dealers due to unpaid drug debts.

Pleaded guilty to possession of heroin and crack cocaine with intent to supply and possession of cannabis. Long-term class A drug user who fell into debt and was threatened with violence. Has 20 past convictions for 39 offences, mainly dishonesty. Assessed as having medium likelihood of reoffending. Judge noted his life has been destroyed by drug use but acknowledged desire to change.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Michael Wood

Fraud

December 10, 2025

Sentence: 48 weeks imprisonment suspended for 18 months, £2,000 compensation, £4,000 costs, £187 victim surcharge, 100 hours unpaid work

In October 2022, Michael Wood, 37, of Rugby Way, Wimborne, Dorset, charmed Katie Pink and her mother Sylvia Hemmings of Darlington Close, Wallasey, by promising to renovate their home extension, which had been left unfinished by previous builders since 2015 due to non-compliance with regulations. The extension was intended to add a third bedroom and family dining room. Wood quoted £7,590 for the work and took a £2,000 deposit but performed little to no work, making excuses blaming Wirral Council, the weather, and falsely claiming he had cancer. In April 2023, the victims requested to cancel the contract and demanded the deposit back, but Wood failed to repay it and even blocked Ms Pink's number. The case was investigated by Wirral Council's trading standards team after being referred to them.

Pleaded guilty to five charges under fraud laws and regulations to protect consumers from unfair trading. Has 21 previous convictions, including prior fraud offenses. Described as a 'rogue trader' by the judge. Previous suspended sentence from Bournemouth Crown Court in 2025 considered.

Sources: manchestereveningnews.co.uk

Gerard Woodhouse

Harassment

December 9, 2025

Sentence: 18 month community order, £300 fine

From October 2023 to August 2025, Gerard Woodhouse sent approximately five abusive cards per day to the home of Labour councillor Christine Banks, containing vile insults including c*** and t***. The cards arrived around times of Labour Party campaigning activity. Woodhouse became fixated on Banks after being deselected by the Labour Party in 2024 and removed three years prior, stemming from a falling out over his L6 centre and her successful foodbank. Forensic testing by Merseyside Police linked the cards to him. He offered no comment in interview. The actions made Banks feel unsafe, stressed, and required her to block him, rush home for post, and accept panic alarms and cameras.

Pleaded guilty at first opportunity. Judge noted the offending was persistent, wicked and abusive over two years, aggravating due to victim's public servant role. Prior convictions for damage, assault (2006) and false statements (2004). Restraining order imposed preventing contact with Christine Banks.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Julien Dorin

Sexual assault

December 8, 2025

Sentence: 18 months imprisonment

Julien Dorin, aged 39 and of no fixed address, approached a missing teenage girl in Chavasse Park, Liverpool city centre, around 10pm earlier in 2025. After a lengthy interaction, he offered her money and help in exchange for assistance, repeatedly inviting her for drinks despite knowing her age. He kissed her hand, touched her thigh and chest, hugged and kissed her, persisting despite her distress and requests to stop. The victim escaped to a nearby pub and called police. Dorin had been released from prison about two months prior for a wounding conviction and was recalled to custody.

Admitted one count of sexual assault. Also handed a 10-year sexual harm prevention order and required to sign the sex offenders' register for 10 years. On licence following recent release for wounding conviction. Judge noted predatory behaviour towards vulnerable victim.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Declan Pendlebury

Attempted murder

December 8, 2025

Sentence: 19 years in a young offenders' institute

On September 2, 2024, Declan Pendlebury, then aged 19, visited Robin Singh's home in Burtonwood, Warrington, around 6pm to eat a takeaway and play video games. Around 10pm, they left in an Uber wearing balaclavas and extra clothing, hunting for targets from a 'rival area' in Gaskell Park, St Helens. They encountered a 14-year-old boy playing football with friends on Pennine Drive. Singh shouted 'are you from the 9s?' referring to the WA9 postcode, then brandished a machete and attacked the boy after he fell while fleeing. Pendlebury was at Singh's side throughout, chasing the victim, present during the frenzied stabbing and slashing to the boy's back, arms, legs, and foot, and assisting in the escape. The boy suffered a significant wound to his left knee fracturing his thigh bone, partial amputation of a toe, and injuries to his back and forearm. They fled back to Singh's home via Uber, changed clothes, disposed of evidence in a black bag, and Pendlebury smashed his phone. The next day, he searched online for 'how many years in jail for attempted murder?' and viewed related news. He handed himself in at St Helens Police Station. The victim now suffers PTSD, severe anxiety, and life-changing injuries, including potential knee replacement.

Unanimously convicted of attempted murder by a jury following a trial. No previous convictions. Pleaded not guilty but jury rejected his account of being a shocked bystander. Judge noted his participation in the planned and vicious attack, lack of remorse, and incriminating actions post-offence. Indefinite restraining order imposed. Defence highlighted his young age, developmental immaturity, and family support.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Ryan Cahill

Wounding with intent

December 8, 2025

Sentence: 30 months imprisonment

On September 20, 2025, in the early hours on Seel Street in Liverpool city centre, Ryan Cahill, who was out for a friend's hen do and heavily intoxicated, approached a group including student Ansh Saggar and made crude references to raping one of Saggar's friends. After being challenged, Cahill walked away, smashed a glass bottle on railings to create an improvised weapon, returned, and slashed Saggar across the face, causing deep cuts to the bridge of his nose and forehead requiring stitches and resulting in permanent scarring.

Pleaded guilty to wounding with intent. No previous convictions. Expressed genuine remorse. Has alcohol addiction and history of mental health difficulties and childhood trauma. Primary carer for his mother.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Samuel Gebru

Sexual Assault

December 8, 2025

Sentence: 40 months imprisonment

On July 28, 2025, Samuel Gebru stalked and grabbed a woman in her 20s on Aigburth Road and Lark Lane in Liverpool, attempting to lead her down a side road near the Old Police Station, but was intervened by members of the public. In the early hours of July 29, 2025, he targeted a second woman in her 20s near Toxteth, grabbing her from behind, groping her sexually, leading to a struggle where she stabbed him with her car key and screamed for help, alerting residents.

Pleaded guilty to assault by beating and sexual assault. Judge deemed him a high risk to the public, with predatory and sexually motivated behaviour. No previous convictions. Assisted by interpreter. Restraining order indefinitely preventing contact with second victim. Required to sign sex offenders' register for life. Likely deportation following sentence.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Ryan Dawson

Possession of a prohibited firearm

December 5, 2025

Sentence: 5 years and 4 months imprisonment

On September 8, 2025, Merseyside Police executed a drugs warrant at the home of Ryan Dawson's partner on Fieldton Road in Croxteth, recovering a small quantity of cannabis from a car outside. A loaded self-loading P80 pistol with eight rounds of 9mm ammunition in a magazine was found buried in a black bag under a pile of rubble next to the property. The firearm was test-fired successfully, and Dawson's DNA was detected on the hand grip, side catch, slide grips, and rear sight. Dawson, aged 29, from Steers Croft in Stockbridge Village, claimed he was given the firearm to mind due to a drug debt but did not intend to use it. This incident occurred nearly 10 years after he was shot for an unknown reason around 2016, contributing to his PTSD, substance abuse, depression, and anxiety.

Pleaded guilty to possession of a prohibited firearm, possession of ammunition without a certificate, and possession of cannabis. Sentenced on the basis that he was minding the loaded firearm for others. Has prior convictions including 5 years for possession of a prohibited weapon in 2017 and a suspended sentence for possession of cannabis with intent to supply and money laundering in February 2024. Judge noted his connection to crime, recklessness, PTSD from previous shooting, family hardships, and young son.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Dylan Dellot

Inflicting grievous bodily harm

December 5, 2025

Sentence: 3 years, 11 months imprisonment

On December 20, 2024, Dylan Dellot, 37, of Tithebarn Lane in Kirkby, was involved in an altercation outside the Black Horse pub on County Road, Liverpool. After a verbal exchange with Patrick Gibbons, 24, Dellot struck him in the face with a Carling pint glass, causing it to break, and then punched him at least seven times, knocking him unconscious. Dellot had been drinking and taking drugs, including crack cocaine, throughout the day without sleep. Gibbons initially refused medical attention but collapsed at home hours later due to a severe brain injury from an internal bleed, requiring life-saving surgery at the Walton Centre. He remains under specialist neurological care with ongoing speech difficulties, tube feeding, wheelchair use, and severe long-term disability.

Pleaded guilty to section 20 inflicting grievous bodily harm. Breached suspended sentence for prior assault. Judge Charlotte Crangle noted the defendant's actions denied the victim the privilege of having children. Defendant expressed remorse and had been addressing mental health issues.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Lee Gornall

Assault occasioning actual bodily harm and intentional strangulation

December 5, 2025

Sentence: 4 years imprisonment with 2 years extended licence

Lee Gornall, aged 48, from Dorothy Street in St Helens, celebrated his birthday on October 6, 2025, by taking crack cocaine at his girlfriend Danielle Rooney's home on Lord Street. Over three days, he strangled her multiple times, dragged her by the hair, kicked her to the chest, spat at her, pinned her against a wall, threw her to the floor, and threatened to kill her and her family. On October 8, he held scissors to her face causing a cut and stabbed her in the leg. Interventions by Ms Rooney's friend Michelle Eccleston and her partner Adam Finch stopped some attacks. Gornall denied responsibility in interview, claiming Ms Rooney assaulted him and her injuries were from seizures due to her crack cocaine use. The violence occurred in her home, involving a weapon and under the influence of drugs.

Pleaded guilty to two counts of assault occasioning actual bodily harm and three charges of intentional strangulation. Judge noted sustained pattern of violence, history of 21 convictions including domestic violence, drug misuse, PTSD, and limited remorse. Positive reports from prison staff.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Gary Williams

Possession of indecent images of children

December 4, 2025

Sentence: 12-month imprisonment suspended for 18 months, building choices programme, rehabilitation activity requirement of up to 15 days, 200 hours unpaid work, 3-month electronically monitored curfew from 9pm to 6am

Gary Williams, 45, of Warbreck Road in Newton-le-Willows, engaged in vile chats on Skype and Telegram revealing sexual interest in girls aged five and younger. He downloaded 542 indecent images of children (130 category A images, 193 category A videos including babies being restrained and raped; 114 category B images including 40 films; 75 category C images including 23 videos), three prohibited cartoon or CGI images of child abuse, 352 images of bestiality, and two images showing sexual interference with a corpse. Devices seized on September 18, 2024, following intelligence about sharing on social media.

Of previous good character. Pleaded guilty. Expressed remorse and desire to address issues. Low risk of harm if engages with rehabilitation. Positive character references. Judge considered suspension to protect society more effectively.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Alvin Baker

Wounding without intent and assault

December 4, 2025

Sentence: 20 months imprisonment

On March 14, 2025, Alvin Baker, a 64-year-old taxi driver from Kilsby Drive in Widnes, deliberately performed an emergency stop in his taxi out of temper after his relationship with fiancée Sheila Campbell ended. Ms Campbell, seated in the back without a seatbelt, was thrown forward, suffering fractures to her neck and wrist, a spinal cord injury, a permanent scar on her nose, and requiring potential further surgery. Baker took her to his home, placed her in bed, and left for work without seeking medical help. Paramedics were called the next day by her daughter, who initially thought she was dead due to her bloodied appearance. Ms Campbell has been unable to return to work as a hotel receptionist.

Pleaded guilty to wounding without intent and assault. Judge noted his previous good character, remorse, and engagement with anger management therapy. Five-year restraining order imposed.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Ryan Burgess

Theft from a shop

December 4, 2025

Sentence: 9 months imprisonment

Ryan Burgess, 30, of Maritime Close, Newton-le-Willows, targeted the Boots store on Market Street in Newton-le-Willows multiple times. On November 3, 2025, he stole £191 worth of shampoo and conditioner at 11.15am, returned 15 minutes later for £121 worth of shampoo, and stole £50 worth of products at 4.20pm. He returned on November 13 for £116 worth of hair products and on November 14 for £120 worth. Additional thefts included £10 worth of confectionery from Spar on High Street on October 26, 2025, and £84 worth of cleaning products from B&M on July 7, 2025. Police identified him as the offender and charged him on November 20, 2025.

Pleaded guilty to 11 counts of theft from a shop. Prior thefts included stealing from Spar and B&M.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

William Treacy

Conveying a prohibited item into a prison

December 4, 2025

Sentence: 8 months imprisonment

On August 27, 2023, William Treacy posted a parcel from a Post Office in Toxteth to his son Aaron Donohoe at HMP Swinfen Hall. The parcel contained a pair of grey slippers with 94g of cannabis resin hidden in the foot beds, valued at £940 to £1,410 on the street and more inside prison. Treacy and Donohoe discussed preparing the package, including spraying it with Lynx deodorant to mask the smell, during phone calls in August and September 2023. The scheme was detected by a sniffer dog on August 29, 2023. Treacy handed himself in on October 2, 2023, initially denying knowledge but later admitting the offence. The cannabis was intended to help Donohoe settle a drug debt and make money inside the prison.

Pleaded guilty to conveying a prohibited item into a prison. No previous convictions. Judge noted the offence was out of character, driven by panic to help his son who faced threats over a drug debt. Delay of 27 months since offence with no further offences. Recent leg injury affecting mobility.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Wesley Bradley

Burglary

December 3, 2025

Sentence: 2 years and 11 months imprisonment

Wesley Bradley, 21, of Kersley Walk in Kirkby, carried out a series of burglaries and car thefts across Merseyside. On August 17, he targeted a home on Ambleside Road in Maghull, stealing a handbag containing keys to a BMW and driving off in the vehicle parked on the driveway. The stolen BMW was discovered the next day on Kirkstone Road North in Bootle. In September, he committed a further burglary on Birchfield Street in Islington, during which a Renault was stolen and later recovered in Warrington. These offences were committed while he was serving a suspended sentence for an earlier burglary on November 21, 2024, when he smashed into a house in Bootle, leaving a trail of blood, and stole items including a passport and a Moncler jacket. Forensic tests matched the blood to Bradley, leading to his arrest on January 8, 2025.

Pleaded guilty to burglary and theft. Committed offences while serving a suspended sentence for an earlier burglary. Also sentenced for two counts of possessing a class B drug (cannabis) and breaching suspended sentence terms. Asked for a further burglary to be taken into consideration.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Thomas Williams

Dangerous driving

December 2, 2025

Sentence: 14 months imprisonment

On April 4, 2025, shortly before 1am, police spotted three Sur-Ron electric bikes travelling eastbound on Edge Lane in Liverpool. The riders, dressed in black, failed to stop, leading to a pursuit. Thomas Williams, riding one bike, was tailed to the junction of East Prescot Road and Eaton Road in West Derby. He failed to slow at a roundabout and collided with a Vauxhall Zafira car, performing a full somersault before landing on the ground. The car was damaged but its four occupants were uninjured. Williams was taken to Aintree Hospital, refused blood tests, and a small quantity of cannabis was found in his jacket. He admitted getting scared upon seeing police, driving too fast, and the bike belonged to a friend. He expressed remorse and apologised.

Pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, driving without a licence and insurance, failing to provide a specimen for analysis, and possession of cannabis. 19 prior convictions for 29 offences, including a 44-month sentence for offering to supply class A drugs in 2021. Judge noted deliberate disregard for road safety and aggravating prior convictions, but accepted remorse. Also received a 49-month driving ban.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Ashton Guramatunhu

Fraud by false representation

December 2, 2025

Sentence: 40 months imprisonment

Ashton Guramatunhu, barred from nursing due to previous convictions, assumed the identity of registered nurse Christmas Musaruwa starting in January 2015 to secure employment with Warrington-based care agency Ivers. He worked in residential homes across the country, including Chesterholme, Oaklands, and Thornfield Grange, completing around 80 shifts and performing tasks such as administering medication and attending mental health tribunals. His deception was uncovered in January 2019 following a complaint about the use of restraint at Hope House in Hartlepool, leading to the real Mr Musaruwa being notified. Guramatunhu fled the country in April 2019, returned in February 2020, and was arrested at Heathrow Airport. He pocketed £145,052 in wages while Cygnet paid £172,920.94 for his services, declaring no income to HMRC.

Admitted one count of fraud by false representation. Judge noted no concerns about his work but highlighted the impact on the real nurse whose identity was used. Remorseful, no further offending since 2019, previous convictions for 34 offences including perverting the course of justice and assaults on police.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

John Callaway

Rape

December 1, 2025

Sentence: 13 years imprisonment with 3 years extended licence

In March 2023, John Callaway, a 43-year-old security worker from Shakespeare Close in Everton, was on duty responding to alarms in Liverpool city centre when he approached a heavily intoxicated 19-year-old student who had become separated from her friends. CCTV footage showed him loitering, putting his arm around her, kissing her (which she had no recollection of), and leading her to his van under the pretence of offering her a lift home. Instead, he drove to a secluded cul-de-sac off West Derby Road, where he raped her in the back of the van while she drifted in and out of consciousness. The attack involved abduction, prolonged detention, and significant planning, as he had been watching for a vulnerable lone female. The victim suffered severe trauma, experiencing panic attacks, nightmares, and ongoing daily distress.

Found guilty by jury of one count of rape. No previous convictions. Judge noted lack of remorse and victim empathy, but took into account personal circumstances including mental health issues and family support. Restraining order issued indefinitely banning contact with victim.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Steven Finnigan

Burglary

December 1, 2025

Sentence: 12 months imprisonment

Steven Finnigan, employed by Serco to conduct checks on accommodation for asylum seekers, entered the bedroom of resident Abdulrahmen Hassouna on Morley Street in St Helens on January 21, 2024, while Mr Hassouna was away volunteering. The incident was captured on a Ring doorbell camera installed in the room after previous thefts. Finnigan rummaged through the wardrobe and pockets, stealing around £5 to £15 in cash and some Qatari currency from Mr Hassouna's wallet. He denied wrongdoing, claiming it was part of his duties, but was convicted by a jury.

Found guilty of one count of burglary following a trial. No relevant previous convictions. Has borderline personality disorder and ongoing mental and physical health challenges. Judge noted it was a moment of madness but no remorse shown.

Sources: manchestereveningnews.co.uk

Paul Douglas

Assault, Strangulation, Stalking, and Threatening Communications

November 30, 2025

Sentence: 33 months imprisonment

Paul Douglas, 50, of Croxteth Drive, Sefton Park, carried out an extremely violent assault on his ex-partner on April 26, 2025, at his property where she went to collect her bags after ending their four-month relationship. He punched her multiple times to the legs, face, and body, strangled her with his full weight while shouting threats to kill her, and burned her chest and arm with a lit cigarette. He blocked her escape and threatened to throw her off the balcony. She suffered bruises and cigarette burns. Following this, from May 18, 2025, he made 50 missed calls, 42 voicemails with racial slurs, abusive calls to her sister threatening to come to her house, and further calls breaching bail conditions, including a threat to put a screwdriver in her eye. He continued contacting her after arrest on May 19, 2025.

Sentenced for assault, strangulation, stalking offences against ex-partner, and threatening communications against her sister. Sentences of 27 months and 6 months to run consecutively. Received a restraining order. Prior conviction for domestic violence in 2022.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Jordan Lewis

Assault

November 30, 2025

Sentence: imprisonment

Jordan Lewis and his twin brother Keiron took turns brutally beating their friend, leaving him in a pool of blood following a cocaine binge.

Keiron Lewis

Assault

November 30, 2025

Sentence: imprisonment

Keiron Lewis and his twin brother Jordan took turns brutally beating their friend, leaving him in a pool of blood following a cocaine binge.

Stephen Bates

Murder

November 28, 2025

Sentence: life imprisonment with a minimum term of 18 years

On the evening of April 18, 2025, during a 70th birthday party at his girlfriend Susanne Lewzey's home in Woolton, Liverpool, Stephen Bates, 42, became heavily intoxicated on Jägerbombs, Stella Artois, Red Bull, and vodka. After a drunken argument with Susanne over driving home, her brother Martin O'Donovan, 47, intervened, leading to a brawl in the front garden. Bates was driven home by another sister, Natalie O'Donovan, during which he made threats to kill Martin. Bates then took the car keys and returned to Stonyhurst Road, where he deliberately drove his Ford Fiesta onto the pavement and mowed down Martin, who was sitting on a wall outside the house. Martin became trapped under the vehicle, suffering severe head, chest, and abdominal injuries, and died in hospital on April 19, 2025. Bates showed initial remorse but was obstructive to police.

Convicted of murder following a trial. Judge Neil Flewitt KC noted the offence was committed while intoxicated, in a residential setting during a family party, with no premeditation but a deliberate act of aggression. Personal mitigation including mental health issues, family support, and employment history considered but of limited value.

Sources: walesonline.co.uk

Khalid Elgaddari

Possession with intent to supply class A and B drugs

November 27, 2025

Sentence: 6 years and 6 months imprisonment

On October 15, 2025, police searched Khalid Elgaddari's home at Arpley Street in Warrington at 7.30am, seizing drug paraphernalia including quantities of cannabis, cannabis cigarettes, cannabis gummies, sets of scales, snap bags, multiple cannabis vapes, a large quantity of cocaine, £580 in cash from a rucksack under his bed, a bath bomb, and multiple unknown tablets suspected as cutting agents for the cocaine intended for onward supply. Elgaddari, aged 40, was arrested and answered 'no comment' to questions, denying involvement until pleading guilty on November 13, 2025.

Pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply class A drugs (cocaine), possession with intent to supply class B drugs (cannabis) and possession of criminal property. Prior denial during investigation.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Francis Coggins

Conspiracy to supply class A drugs

November 27, 2025

Sentence: 18 years imprisonment

Francis Coggins, co-leader of the Huyton Firm, based in Zandvoort, Netherlands, organised the importation of over a tonne of class A drugs (cocaine and heroin) from mainland Europe to North Wales using a sophisticated system involving UPS parcels with genuine G-Star Raw account numbers addressed to real homes near the Deeside depot. The parcels were intercepted by a corrupt worker and distributed to UK gangs. The operation ran from May 2019 to October 2020, with a minimum wholesale value of over £16m. The gang was dismantled after infiltration of the EncroChat platform in June 2020. Coggins was arrested in the Netherlands in June 2025 for being drunk and disorderly and extradited to the UK in August 2025.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to fraudulently evade the prohibition on the importation of controlled class A drugs (heroin and cocaine) between May 2019 and October 2020, conspiracy to supply class A drugs (heroin and cocaine) between March and June 2020, and conspiracy to supply class A drugs outside the jurisdiction of England and Wales in Scotland. Judge Robert Trevor-Jones noted he was directing or organising the buying and selling of drugs on a commercial scale with substantial links and influence.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Adam Everett

Attempted murder

November 26, 2025

Sentence: 13 years' detention

On April 30, 2025, the then 14-year-old defendant, in retaliation for an earlier altercation where a friend was injured by a metal pole, approached two victims at a bus stop on Whitefield Drive in Kirkby armed with a knife from his waistband. He stabbed a 15-year-old boy 11 times, including injuries to the liver and kidney, after the boy fell to the ground, and kicked him while shouting insults. The boy's 14-year-old girlfriend was stabbed once in the chest, injuring her lung. Both victims required surgery but recovered. The incident was captured on CCTV. The defendant claimed he only intended to 'batter' the victim, described as a bully, and was handed the knife by a neighbor.

Convicted of attempted murder by a majority of 11 to one. Cleared of wounding with intent in relation to the girl but admitted wounding the boy with intent, unlawful wounding, and possession of a bladed article. No previous convictions. Defendant expressed remorse and is engaged in rehabilitation and education while in custody. Must serve two thirds in custody before eligible for release.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Unnamed Boy

Attempted Murder

November 26, 2025

Sentence: 13 years' detention

On the evening of April 30, 2025, the then 14-year-old defendant stabbed a 15-year-old boy 11 times, including injuries to the liver and kidney, in retaliation for an earlier altercation where a friend was hit with a metal pole. The attack occurred at a bus stop on Whitefield Drive in Kirkby after the defendant approached from behind with a knife from his waistband, stabbing the boy in the back, kicking him while he was down, and continuing to stab. The boy's 14-year-old girlfriend was stabbed once in the chest, injuring her lung. Both victims required surgery but recovered. CCTV footage captured the incident, including the defendant's threats and insults. He claimed he only intended to 'batter' the victim, described as a bully, and was given the knife by a neighbour.

Found guilty of attempted murder by majority verdict (11-1); admitted wounding with intent, unlawful wounding, and possession of a bladed article. No previous convictions. Defence expressed deep regret and intent for rehabilitation. Judge noted remorse and hope for no further offences, but emphasised seriousness due to victims being children and use of knife.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Michael Waring

Affray

November 25, 2025

Sentence: 28 months imprisonment

On May 26, 2025, shortly after midnight, Michael Waring entered his housemate’s bedroom in Marsh House Lane, Warrington, and ordered him to drive him to ‘The Pool’. When refused, Waring threatened him with a knife, stole his car keys and mobile, attempted to drive off but crashed into another car. Police attended, and while being removed from the vehicle, Waring bit one officer's finger and assaulted another to avoid arrest. He was under the influence of drink.

Pleaded guilty to affray, possession of a knife, aggravated vehicle taking, assault and assault by beating an emergency worker. Prior encounters with law enforcement for similar offences.

Sources: chesterstandard.co.uk

Leon Headey

Affray and possession of a bladed article

November 24, 2025

Sentence: 22 months imprisonment

On September 7, 2023, in broad daylight on West Derby Road, Liverpool, Leon Headey chased a man down the street, stabbing him repeatedly with a large kitchen knife after an argument involving three men. The victim sustained one stab wound to his upper chest and two to his back, bleeding profusely, and escaped by jumping into a passing car to reach the hospital. Headey also kicked the victim while he was on the ground. This was the first in a series of violent crimes, including an aggravated assault on October 25, 2023, in Alness, Scotland, and the murder of Ross MacGillivray on November 11, 2023, in Inverness, Scotland.

Pleaded guilty to affray and possession of a bladed article in a public place. Judge noted escalating violence and prior offences. Will face life sentence for murder in Scotland.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Brian Thompson

Burglary and causing serious injury by dangerous driving

November 24, 2025

Sentence: 3 years and 8 months imprisonment

Brian Thompson, 53, of Field Lane in Fazakerley, burgled a home on Pennard Avenue in Huyton prior to September 4, 2024, while the victim was on holiday, stealing a spare set of car keys, a watch, and a mobile phone. He returned in the early hours of September 4, 2024, at 3.47am and stole the Volvo parked outside using the keys. He drove the stolen car at high speed through Kirkdale, swerving into the wrong lane, crashing into a stationary taxi driver at the junction of Bank Hall Street and Stanley Road at 5.55am, then fleeing. He continued driving on the wrong side of the road at over 30mph and collided head-on with self-employed joiner Mark McKenna on his way to work, causing Mr McKenna two broken ribs and a fractured spine, leaving him bedridden for months. Thompson was under the influence of class A drugs, had no driving licence, and was already under investigation for drug offences.

Pleaded guilty to burglary and causing serious injury by dangerous driving. Banned from driving for 2 years and must take an extended test. Given a restraining order banning him from entering Pennard Avenue. Judge noted lifelong record for dishonesty offences and that the driving involved a highly dangerous manoeuvre while under the influence of drugs in a stolen vehicle without a licence.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Jack Swanson

Supply of cocaine

November 24, 2025

Sentence: 3 years and 8 months imprisonment

On Thursday, October 23, 2025, officers raided Jack Swanson's home on Park Road in Kirkby after he was suspected of supplying drugs in the St Helens area. They found around £10,000 in cash, cocaine, cannabis, scales, and numerous mobile phones including a burner phone.

Admitted being concerned in the supply of cocaine. Has 20 previous convictions for 38 offences, including burglary, shoplifting, and drug-related offences. Previously described by a judge as 'a prolific burglar who has learnt nothing'.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Kieran Tasker

Conspiracy to supply Class A and B drugs

November 24, 2025

Sentence: 10 years and 8 months imprisonment

Kieran Tasker, 31, of Campbell Drive, Roby, was involved in a Class A and B drugs conspiracy estimated to be worth £800,000. He used EncroChat handles ‘Palesky’ and ‘Piratekangaroo’ to agree to source and supply multikilogram amounts of controlled drugs across Merseyside, including over 30 kg of cocaine and heroin and 3 kg of cannabis. He operated as a commercial business, often in partnership, distributing large amounts of illicit drugs daily. Tasker was arrested at his home in April by Matrix officers on behalf of Merseyside’s Organised Crime Partnership.

Pleaded guilty to three counts of conspiracy to supply Class A drugs (cocaine, crack cocaine and heroin), two counts of conspiracy to supply Class B drugs (cannabis and cannabis resin), and conspiracy to conceal/disguise/convert/transfer criminal property. Played a leading role in a commercial drug operation using EncroChat handles ‘Palesky’ and ‘Piratekangaroo’. Bought a van modified with a secret hide.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk