Liverpool Crown Court Sentencing Results

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

Paul Mockett

Conspiracy to import cocaine

December 1, 2024

Sentence: 13.5 years imprisonment

Paul Mockett was involved in an organised crime group that plotted to import 1.3 tonnes of cocaine from Sierra Leone, concealed in flour. He set up BH Supplies Ltd to facilitate the purchase of chemicals for cutting the drugs and participated in communications about the operation, including hiring labour to unload the shipment.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to import cocaine. Expressed concerns about the plan and was involved in setting up a company to purchase cutting agents.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Paul O'shea

Conspiracy to supply cocaine

December 1, 2024

Sentence: 6 years imprisonment

Paul O'Shea was involved in an organised crime group that supplied cocaine, including multiple handovers with Darren Schofield and others. He was observed exchanging bags containing cocaine and cash in locations such as a pub car park and near a GP practice, and was linked to messages on Signal coordinating drug drops.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply cocaine. Known as 'Doc' and involved in handovers of cocaine.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Stephen Martland

Conspiracy to import cocaine

December 1, 2024

Sentence: 21 years imprisonment

Stephen Martland was part of an organised crime group led by Darren Schofield that attempted to smuggle 1.3 tonnes of cocaine from Sierra Leone, hidden in flour shipments. He arranged the lease of an industrial unit in Wigan for drug storage and was involved in communications about the importation, including concerns over the operation's risks.

Convicted after trial of conspiracy to import cocaine. Involved in arranging the rental of premises for drug delivery and sourcing chemicals for cutting substances.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Carl Dilks

Conspiracy to supply cocaine

December 1, 2024

Sentence: 8 years and 8 months imprisonment

Carl Dilks, a former professional boxer, was involved in supplying cocaine as part of an organised crime group. He acted as a 'commodities broker' for drugs, using the handle 'Cherry Vape' on EncroChat, and directed collections and deliveries of cocaine and cash.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply cocaine. Previously a professional boxer with a minor criminal history.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Darren Schofield

Conspiracy to import cocaine

December 1, 2024

Sentence: 20 years imprisonment

Darren Schofield, known as 'Thor', led an organised crime group that plotted to smuggle 1.3 tonnes of cocaine worth £140 million into the UK from Sierra Leone, hidden in a shipment of flour. The drugs were intercepted at the Port of Felixstowe in June 2022. Schofield coordinated the importation, including handovers of cocaine and cash in locations such as a Beefeater pub car park and outside a GP practice. He used encrypted communications and was involved in drug mixing at a property in Kirkdale.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to import cocaine. A Proceeds of Crime Act hearing ordered him to forfeit £155,930.26, with prior convictions and gang involvement noted.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Darren Wetton

Supply of cannabis

December 1, 2024

Sentence: 12 months imprisonment, suspended for 18 months

Darren Wetton was involved in supplying cannabis, including couriering quantities to locations such as Norwich and Glasgow. He admitted to transporting cannabis in exchange for his own supply and was found with class B drugs during a search of his home.

Pleaded guilty to being concerned in the supply of cannabis. Made admissions during trial about couriering cannabis.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

David Jones

Supply of cocaine

December 1, 2024

Sentence: 3.5 years imprisonment

David Jones was involved in the supply of cocaine as part of an organised crime group. He was arrested with nearly 1kg of a cutting agent and participated in handovers, including meetings with Darren Schofield. Group chats revealed issues with equipment and his perceived lack of experience in drug preparation.

Pleaded guilty to being concerned in the supply of cocaine. Frustration was expressed in group chats about his inexperience.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Aleks Xhelo

Production and supply of cannabis

November 17, 2024

Sentence: 7 years and 2 months imprisonment

Aleks Xhelo, 36, operated large-scale cannabis farms in Toxteth and Tuebrook, Liverpool. One farm on Smithdown Road, Toxteth, contained 351 plants with a potential yield of 10 to 30kg, valued at nearly £450,000. Another on West Derby Road, Tuebrook, had 78 dead plants. He was involved in supplying multi-kilo quantities of skunk cannabis, including to other dealers, and advertised sales via videos on his phone. On September 19, 2024, he was stopped in a car on Broadgreen Road, Old Swan, with 703g of cannabis worth £10,500 and £3,200 cash. Electricity was bypassed at both properties.

Pleaded guilty to production of a controlled class B drug, being concerned with the supply of class B drugs, and possessing criminal property. No previous convictions. Expressed remorse. Heavily involved in commercial distribution and production of cannabis.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Lorenc Bashota

Production of cannabis

November 17, 2024

Sentence: 14 months imprisonment

Lorenc Bashota, 25, was found with Aleks Xhelo in an upstairs growing room at a cannabis farm on Smithdown Road, Toxteth, Liverpool, on December 8, 2024. The farm contained 351 plants with a potential yield of 10 to 30kg, valued at nearly £450,000. Electricity had been bypassed. Bashota's role was limited to gardening.

Pleaded guilty to production of a controlled class B drug. Acted as a gardener with no criminal history, limited awareness of the operation, and minimal financial benefit. Provided limited assistance at the grow site.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Sean Johnson

Theft

November 15, 2024

Sentence: 18 months imprisonment suspended for 2 years

Sean Johnson arrived at Fiddler's Ferry Power Station during the looting incident on November 19, 2023, carrying a large rucksack with warm electrical tools indicating recent use. The group stole £7,000 worth of copper cable from the boiler house, damaging access doors and leaving tools behind, in breach of a high court injunction. Threats were made to a security guard, and the site suffered significant financial impact.

38 years old, two convictions for two offences. Out of trouble since 2010, mental health issues, main carer for three of five children, unemployed.

Sources: chesterstandard.co.uk

Daniel Holmes

Theft

November 15, 2024

Sentence: 20 months imprisonment suspended for 2 years, 180 hours unpaid work

Daniel Holmes participated in the looting of Fiddler's Ferry Power Station on November 19, 2023, where £7,000 worth of copper cable was stolen in violation of a high court injunction. Police prevented his van from leaving the site, and a large rucksack containing warm electrical tools was placed in it by Sean Johnson. The theft involved threats to a security guard and an attempt to ram a police officer.

35 years old, five convictions for six offences including two thefts. Involved due to financial complications, carer for partner with two children.

Sources: chesterstandard.co.uk

Colt Brown

Theft

November 15, 2024

Sentence: 20 months imprisonment suspended for 2 years, 180 hours unpaid work

Colt Brown was involved in looting Fiddler's Ferry Power Station on November 19, 2023, stealing around £7,000 worth of copper cable despite a high court injunction preventing trespass. He was spotted next to a vehicle at the site when police arrived. Phone records showed contact with John Marshall the day before. The incident led to threats against a security guard and damage to the site, costing owners £3,000 to reposition cabling and £26,000 for new security.

42 years old, 15 convictions for 25 offences including seven thefts. Now works for Leeds Roofing Company.

Sources: chesterstandard.co.uk

John Marshall

Theft

November 15, 2024

Sentence: 33 months imprisonment

John Marshall drove a van at a police officer at speed during the looting of Fiddler's Ferry Power Station on November 19, 2023, narrowly missing him while attempting to evade capture. He was part of the group stealing £7,000 worth of copper cable from the 55ft level of the boiler house, using tools like a hacksaw and crowbar, despite a high court injunction. The stolen Land Rover was later found at a petrol station where he was arrested. The incident included threats to shoot a security guard.

37 years old, 28 convictions including for burglaries. Committed offence due to mortgage arrears and desperation, now runs Wr Waste Selby company. Drove at police officer.

Sources: chesterstandard.co.uk

Carl Dawe

Arson being reckless as to whether life was endangered

November 14, 2024

Sentence: 4.5 years imprisonment

On the evening of September 6, 2024, Carl Dawe, 52, of Gloucester Road North, argued with his affair partner Jacqueline Spencer at her home on Clifton Road East in Tuebrook over a fridge freezer. After she went to neighbour Alison Hunt's house, Dawe smashed the windows of Hunt's caravan in jealousy. Just after 3.30am on September 7, he returned, set the caravan on fire using a cigarette lighter on the curtains, destroying it and an attached trailer. A gas canister exploded, spreading the fire to Spencer's home where her 14-year-old son and pets were inside. Spencer re-entered the burning house to save them, suffering first and second degree burns to her face, neck, and hand, fearing permanent scarring. The fire also damaged two neighbouring properties and a car. Dawe was arrested later that morning in Newsham Park while intoxicated.

Admitted arson being reckless as to whether life was endangered and four counts of criminal damage. Judge noted he was in a bad temper and under the influence of alcohol, with wide-ranging consequences including injury to victim. Remorseful, previous convictions but none since 2014.

Sources: birminghammail.co.uk

Andrew Talbot

Misconduct in public office

November 1, 2024

Sentence: 19 years imprisonment

Andrew Talbot, a former GMP detective, stole just under 4kg of cocaine from the GMP property store between February 2018 and January 2020 and supplied it on the streets of Manchester. He abused his position by conducting unauthorised searches of GMP’s confidential computer systems for known or suspected drug dealers to aid sales and provided confidential police information to a friend under investigation for assault. He conspired with convicted drug dealer Keith Bretherton to help recover a drug debt worth more than £20,000. On February 13, 2020, CCTV captured him dropping a bag of cocaine at a primary school after dropping off his daughter. The bag was reported, leading to an investigation and his arrest at work three days later. Searches revealed more cocaine on him, drug-related notes in his car, and paraphernalia at his home.

Pleaded guilty to two counts of possession of cocaine, possession of ammunition without a firearm certificate, theft of cocaine, conspiracy to commit misconduct in public office, a further count of misconduct in public office, and unauthorised access to computer material. Found guilty after trial of supplying a controlled drug of Class A, misconduct in public office, and failing to comply with a notice under section 49 of the Regulation and Investigatory Powers Act 2000. Sacked by GMP in August 2024. Ordered to pay £75,420.67 under Confiscation Order or face additional 2 years imprisonment.

Sources: manchestereveningnews.co.uk

Reece Gordon

Possession of indecent images of children

November 1, 2024

Sentence: 10 months imprisonment suspended for 2 years, 10-year sexual harm prevention order, 60 days rehabilitation activity requirement, and 100 hours unpaid work requirement

Reece Gordon, employed as a teaching assistant at Dovecot Primary School from September 2023 to February 2024, possessed and accessed 268 category A indecent images of children through a Dropbox account linked to his email address. This was discovered in January 2024 while he was working at the school, leading to his conviction for a large string of instances over a prolonged period.

Pleaded guilty to the offences. No evidence of mitigation, insight, or remorse. Banned from teaching indefinitely due to safeguarding concerns.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Michael Riccio

Drug conspiracy, firearms offences, and money laundering

November 1, 2024

Sentence: 35 years imprisonment

Michael Riccio, operating under the handle 'LeadFern' on EncroChat, ran a business buying and selling drugs and guns, amassing £2.5m in old £20 notes. He dealt in at least 30kg of cocaine and 20kg of heroin in early 2020, with operations extending to Dubai, Australia, Europe, and involving people at Liverpool's docks and three companies in Belgium. He had a reputation for sourcing and selling weapons, including attempting to acquire a shotgun to 'give someone a leggy', and sought to buy back guns against rivals. He was caught after sending a selfie showing a missing tooth. Following arrest, he conceded using EncroChat for heroin and cocaine supply but denied gun dealing, claiming others used his device. He refused to name them, stating 'I'm no grass'. The conspiracy focused on England and Wales.

Sentenced for gun offences, drug conspiracy, and money laundering. Previously spent four months in prison in the Netherlands for possession of a Glock handgun. Prior convictions taken into account.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Ali Akturan

Sexual assault

October 27, 2024

Sentence: 14 months imprisonment suspended for 18 months, 120 rehabilitation activity requirement days

On September 24, 2023, Ali Akturan, 19, of Greenbank Drive in Sefton Park, entered the basement women's toilets at the Grade II-listed Mansion House in Calderstones Park, Liverpool, where cleaner Pauline Whalley was working. He grabbed her arms, threw her to the floor, smashed her head into the tiles, and sexually assaulted her by grabbing her vagina over her clothing. The victim screamed, alerting another woman, and Akturan fled but was caught and arrested in the park.

Pleaded guilty. Recorder Tim Harrington considered the defendant's age (19), lack of prior convictions, possible mild learning disability and features of autistic spectrum disorder. Also given a restraining order banning entry to Calderstones Park or contact with victim.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Curtis Critchley

Possession of a paedophile manual

October 24, 2024

Sentence: 14 months imprisonment

Curtis Critchley was found with a paedophile manual containing advice on sexually abusing children during a prison search at HMP Risley on August 6, 2024. The manual included graphic stories of sexual activities involving children and details on grooming children via Snapchat and TikTok. This follows prior offenses where he stole children's clothing from a washing line in Doncaster, possessed indecent images, and engaged in sexual activity with a 14-year-old girl he met on Snapchat while lying about his age; she was found with him in a Holiday Inn in Rotherham.

Guilty plea to possession of a paedophile manual. Previous convictions include three years and four months in a young offender institution in May 2020 for causing a child to engage in sexual activity, theft of clothing, handling stolen goods, and possessing indecent images of children. Ordered to sign the sex offender register for life and abide by a sexual harm prevention order for 10 years.

Sources: manchestereveningnews.co.uk

Christopher Sargent

Assault occasioning actual bodily harm

October 23, 2024

Sentence: 20 months imprisonment

Christopher Sargent assaulted his former partner Helen Mulligan by pushing her into a pool, screaming abuse, pushing her against the wall, striking her nose causing it to bleed, and pinning her against the wall with his hands around her neck, threatening to kill her, while on holiday in Turkey on August 12, 2024. The assault occurred in their hotel room after he became enraged upon seeing deleted messages on her phone. Helen reported the incident to Merseyside Police upon returning to Liverpool on August 14, 2024.

Pleaded guilty. 10-year restraining order issued. Ordered to pay £187 in court costs.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Curtis Carney

Conspiring to convey prohibited items into prisons

October 21, 2024

Sentence: 4 years and 11 months imprisonment

Curtis Carney, 36, of Coton Way, Kirkby, was involved in an operation using drones to smuggle drugs and mobile phones into multiple prisons including HMP Liverpool, Altcourse, Hindley, Wymott, Garth, and Deerbolt. The plot was uncovered after a 10-month investigation by the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit. Carney was first arrested in June 2023 on the M6 in Lancashire when a package of drugs and mobile phones wrapped in grass was thrown from his car, with a drone found in the boot. He was arrested again in October 2024 near HMP Liverpool, where two more drones and four packages containing drugs and mobile phones were discovered. Evidence linked him to over 50 drone flights into six prisons. Seized drugs had a street value of £31,000 to £38,000 and prison value of £94,000 to £295,000.

Leading role in the conspiracy; handed a Serious Crime Prevention Order restricting access to mobile phones and drones for 5 years after release.

Sources: lancs.live

Robert Stoba

Conspiring to convey prohibited items into prisons

October 21, 2024

Sentence: 4 years and 11 months imprisonment

Robert Stoba, 26, of no fixed abode, was involved alongside Curtis Carney in an operation using drones to smuggle prohibited items including drugs and mobile phones into prisons such as HMP Liverpool, Altcourse, Hindley, Wymott, Garth, and Deerbolt. The scheme involved over 50 drone flights and was dismantled through a 10-month investigation by the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit in collaboration with Lancashire Police, Merseyside Police, and HMPPS. The pair frequently travelled in vehicles driven by women, with drugs stored at the home of a vulnerable woman. Seized items included 11 drones and drugs valued at £31,000 to £38,000 on the street and £94,000 to £295,000 in prisons.

Kyle Foster

Causing serious injury by dangerous driving

October 16, 2024

Sentence: 2 years and 9 months imprisonment

Shortly after midnight on Monday, January 22, 2024, Kyle Foster, 28, was driving a Volvo S60 along Liverpool Road in Crosby at speeds exceeding 65mph when he hit a 19-year-old pedestrian crossing the road. The victim suffered serious injuries requiring multiple surgeries and remains on a long road to recovery. Following the incident, Foster failed to stop and made efforts to conceal his involvement by attempting to repair the damaged vehicle. The car was later found at an industrial estate outside a vehicle body shop, with its registration plates removed.

Pleaded guilty to causing serious injury by dangerous driving. Received a driving ban lasting 4 years and 4 months.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Dylan Ladner

Violent Disorder

September 5, 2024

Sentence: three years imprisonment

Dylan Ladner was involved in a violent and sustained attack on June 12, 2024, at the junction of Chiltern Road and Southport Street in Parr, where a man in his 40s was assaulted, suffering injuries to his back, arm, and face. The victim was taken to hospital, and the incident involved three men who were arrested and convicted following a police investigation.

Adam Goodier

Violent Disorder

September 5, 2024

Sentence: two years and three months imprisonment

Adam Goodier participated in a violent and sustained attack on June 12, 2024, at the junction of Chiltern Road and Southport Street in Parr, where a man in his 40s was assaulted, sustaining injuries to his back, arm, and face. A member of the public intervened, and the victim required hospital treatment. Goodier was one of three men arrested and convicted in the investigation.

Callum Hardman

Violent Disorder

September 5, 2024

Sentence: two-year community order

Callum Hardman was involved in a violent and sustained attack on June 12, 2024, at the junction of Chiltern Road and Southport Street in Parr, where a man in his 40s was assaulted and suffered injuries to his back, arm, and face, requiring hospital treatment. He was one of three men arrested and convicted as part of the police investigation.

Wayne Halliwell

Theft

September 4, 2024

Sentence: 26 weeks imprisonment and £175 compensation

Wayne Halliwell stole the ashes of a woman's late ex-partner by flushing them down the toilet and damaged a canvas picture worth £175. The offences occurred on May 26, 2024, at an address in Clock Face.

Pleaded guilty to criminal damage and theft. A three-year restraining order was imposed.

Sources: sthelensstar.co.uk

Elias Morgan

Murder

September 1, 2024

Sentence: minimum of 45 years imprisonment

Elias Morgan, 35, of Highgate Street, shot former prison officer Lenny Scott, 33, of Prescot, six times outside a gym on Peel Road, Skelmersdale, at around 7.35pm on February 8, 2024. The murder was an act of retaliation nearly four years after Scott exposed an illicit relationship between Morgan, who was an inmate at HMP Altcourse, and a female prison officer. Scott had refused a £1,500 bribe to not report a phone Morgan illegally held, which contained evidence of the affair. Morgan later warned Scott, 'I'll bide my time, but I promise I will get you', and made a gun gesture.

Found guilty of murder. Did not receive a whole life order due to a legal loophole as the victim was a former prison officer at the time of the murder.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Robert Jones

Assault

August 18, 2024

Sentence: 3 years and 10 months imprisonment

Robert Jones, 20, of Marian Road, Haydock, attacked a complete stranger multiple times with a bottle on Ormskirk Street in St Helens town centre on June 21, 2024, following an argument. The incident escalated quickly and left the victim with severe injuries requiring medical intervention.

Convicted of a prolonged and unprovoked attack with a bottle on a stranger in St Helens town centre. The victim required surgery and suffered physical scars and emotional trauma.

Sources: sthelensstar.co.uk

Richard Ainscough

Causing serious injury by dangerous driving

August 8, 2024

Sentence: 28 months imprisonment

Richard Ainscough was driving a Ford Kuga on the southbound carriageway in Maghull on December 27, 2023, when he performed a U-turn across the central reservation, ignoring a police cordon on the closed northbound road following an earlier hit-and-run incident. He struck Police Officer Phil Jones, causing serious injuries including an open fracture of the right elbow, a dislocated left shoulder, injuries to the left knee and lower left leg, and psychological trauma. Ainscough's actions led to the officer's hospitalisation and ongoing recovery challenges.

Pleaded guilty to causing serious injury by dangerous driving. Also found guilty of driving while unfit through drugs and driving with eyesight not complying with requirements. Disqualified from driving for two years and required to undertake an extended retest.

Sources: sthelensstar.co.uk

William Nelson Morgan

Violent disorder and possessing an offensive weapon

August 8, 2024

Sentence: 2 years and 8 months imprisonment

William Nelson Morgan, 69, of Linton Street, Walton, participated in violent disorder in Merseyside after the Southport stabbings and was also involved in possessing an offensive weapon.

Sentenced for violent disorder and possessing an offensive weapon. Judge Andrew Menary KC noted that his advancing years did not prevent him from playing an active part in a disturbance on County Road.

Sources: independent.co.uk

John O'malley

Violent disorder

August 8, 2024

Sentence: 2 years and 8 months imprisonment

John O'Malley, 43, of Cambridge Gardens, Southport, participated in violent disorder in Merseyside after the Southport stabbings.

Callum Lloyd

Failing to provide a specimen for analysis

August 6, 2024

Sentence: 12 weeks imprisonment, disqualified from driving for 4 years, and a victim surcharge

Callum Lloyd was driving a blue Vauxhall on the East Lancashire Road in St Helens on August 5, 2024, with an open can of seven per cent White Storm cider in the drinks holder. He was pulled over by police following reports of a suspected drink driver at around 11.50am. He failed to provide a breath sample and was found to be driving without a licence and without insurance, leading to his arrest and subsequent charges.

Pleaded guilty to failing to provide a specimen for analysis, driving a motor vehicle without a licence, and using a motor vehicle without third-party insurance. The offence was so serious that only a custodial sentence could be justified.

Sources: sthelensstar.co.uk

Martin Green

Causing death by dangerous driving

July 29, 2024

Sentence: eight years imprisonment

Martin Green was driving a white Ford Kuga along Southworth Road from Lowton towards Newton-le-Willows on June 10, 2024, when he lost control at high speed and crashed into a wooded area near Mere Road. He was under the influence of alcohol and travelling at speeds up to 121 mph in a 30 mph limit, resulting in the death of his friend, Jonathan Mennell, who was in the front passenger seat and died at the scene from his injuries.

Pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving. Evidence showed he was driving under the influence of alcohol and at excessive speeds, with a blood alcohol level above the legal limit. Detective Sergeant Andy Roper described it as an extremely sad case resulting from poor decisions.

Sources: sthelensstar.co.uk

Gareth Pickford

Assault Occasioning Actual Bodily Harm

July 25, 2024

Sentence: 27 months imprisonment and an indefinite restraining order

Gareth Pickford, in a possessive and jealous relationship, headbutted his girlfriend in the eye on August 29, 2023, causing a severe injury that required hospital treatment, and created a false story to cover it up. He also slapped her multiple times in December 2023 during an argument, and on January 7, 2024, assaulted both her and her teenage son, involving threats to kill her and physical punches, amid a pattern of domestic violence.

Pleaded guilty to the offences. Has previous convictions for violence, expressed genuine remorse in a letter to the court, and the judge described the incidents as unpleasant, shocking, and terrifying, particularly for the victim and her child.

Sources: leighjournal.co.uk

Adam Wilson

Wounding with intent

July 21, 2024

Sentence: 15 years and 8 months extended sentence, including 11 years and 8 months custody and 4 years on licence

Adam Wilson committed a burglary on July 19, 2024, at a property on Boxwood Gardens in Sutton, where he searched untidily and removed items, including a Rolex watch box. Three days later, on July 22, 2024, he returned with David Bowen, armed with a loaded firearm, intending to steal the Rolex watch to fund their drug habit. When confronted by a neighbour, Wilson pointed the firearm and shouted demands, then discharged it, shooting the victim in the leg and causing a 1cm entry and exit wound. The victim required hospital treatment and suffered ongoing psychological trauma.

Pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm with intent to commit an indictable offence (robbery) and wounding with intent. Has 11 previous convictions for offences including battery, possession of heroin, and drugs supply. Defence noted the tragic loss of his daughter in 2021 as a possible factor, and he expressed determination to avoid further offences.

Sources: sthelensstar.co.uk

David Bowen

Wounding with intent

July 21, 2024

Sentence: 14 years extended sentence, including 10 years custody and 4 years on licence

David Bowen accompanied Adam Wilson during a burglary on July 19, 2024, at a property on Boxwood Gardens in Sutton, where items including a Rolex watch box were stolen. On July 22, 2024, they returned armed with a loaded firearm to steal the Rolex watch to fund their drug habit. When a neighbour questioned them, Bowen was present as Wilson pointed the firearm and shot the victim in the leg, causing a 1cm entry and exit wound. The victim endured hospital treatment and significant psychological impact.

Pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm with intent to commit an indictable offence (robbery) and wounding with intent. Has eight previous convictions for offences including dishonesty, threats to kill, and assaults on emergency workers. Defence highlighted his long-standing drug misuse as a driving factor and noted his remorse for the behaviour.

Sources: sthelensstar.co.uk

Bridie Trotter

Causing serious injury by dangerous driving

July 18, 2024

Sentence: 27 months imprisonment and 4-year driving ban

On August 30, 2023, at around 9.30pm on Birchwood Way, Warrington, Bridie Trotter, then 36, who was over the drink driving limit and high on cocaine, drove her two young sons (aged five and four) and swerved onto the other side of the road, causing a head-on collision with a car carrying 36-weeks pregnant Ellie Wright, her partner, and two children (aged eight and six). The crash resulted in serious injuries to all seven people involved, including Trotter's five-year-old son who was placed in an induced coma for four days with fractures to his collarbone and pelvis, a scalp wound, broken nose, and mouth injury requiring surgery. Ellie Wright suffered bruising to her baby bump, was hospitalized for four days, and feared for her baby's life; her children had severe seatbelt burns and bruising. Trotter's blood alcohol was 137mg (over 80mg limit) and cocaine metabolite four times the legal limit six hours post-accident. She had been struggling with mental health, domestic violence, drinking, and drugs prior to the incident.

Pleaded guilty to causing serious injury by dangerous driving, drug driving and drink driving. Judge Stuart Driver KC noted her previous good character, mental health struggles, history of domestic violence, and efforts to rehabilitate from addiction. She believes the sentence is too long and is appealing.

Sources: liverpoolecho.co.uk

Kai Howitt

Murder

July 15, 2024

Sentence: Life imprisonment with a minimum term of 14 years

Kai Howitt, 19, of Trent Boulevard, West Bridgford, Nottingham, threw a brick at Jack Edwards during a violent group attack at Sussex Street skate park in Nottingham on December 5, 2023. This caused catastrophic brain damage to Edwards, who was acting erratically and making rude remarks due to alcohol and drugs. Edwards' life support was withdrawn two days later.

Found guilty of murder after a trial. Suffered from autism and ADHD, but the judge determined this did not significantly impact culpability. Acted with another youth in a group attack motivated by a desire to cause serious harm.

Sources: standard.co.uk

Ian Wright

Arson

July 3, 2024

Sentence: 12-month prison term, suspended for 18 months, and 30 sessions of rehabilitation activity

Ian Wright, 41, set fire to his garden shed on October 31, 2024, during a mental health breakdown while residing at Knowles House Avenue, Eccleston, with his partner and five of their children. He was found inside the shed holding a lit blowtorch, with black smoke emanating and the fire spreading, damaging the shed, a children's trampoline, and garden furniture. Police attended after his partner reported the incident, and firefighters made the scene safe; Wright received oxygen for smoke inhalation and claimed no recollection of the event.

Pleaded guilty to arson after being deemed fit to plead. Suffered a mental health breakdown; time already spent in custody considered as punitive sanction. Has prior convictions for criminal damage from 2012 or earlier.

Sources: sthelensstar.co.uk

Stephanie Peckham

Drink driving

July 3, 2024

Sentence: 14 weeks imprisonment suspended for 12 months, 32-month driving ban, 200 hours of unpaid work, 20 days of rehabilitation activity, £85 costs, and £154 victim surcharge

On July 3, 2024, Stephanie Peckham was driving a Ford Fiesta on the M53 between junctions three and four when she was stopped by police. She was found to have 166 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath, which is nearly five times over the legal limit of 35 microgrammes.

Stopped by police on the M53 with 166 microgrammes of alcohol in breath, exceeding the legal limit of 35 microgrammes.

Sources: chesterstandard.co.uk

Stephen Godridge

Rape

July 1, 2024

Sentence: Life imprisonment with a minimum term of 10 years and 8 months

Stephen Godridge groomed a 14-year-old girl on Snapchat by sending a friend request and persuading her to send pictures of herself in underwear. He drove from Bolton to Liverpool to pick her up, took her to Manchester to watch him play football, and later drove her to a car park in Merseyside where he sexually assaulted and raped her despite her pleas to stop. She photographed the car's interior and route due to her concern, leading to his arrest via automatic number plate recognition. He had prior convictions in 2019 for similar offences involving two other teenage girls.

Pleaded not guilty; judge highlighted high risk of reoffending, previous similar convictions, and failure of prior sentence to prevent further offences.

Sources: lancs.live

Lee Ashby

Possessing a bladed article in a public place

June 26, 2024

Sentence: 16 weeks imprisonment

Lee Ashby, 40, of The Summit, Liscard, was found in possession of a pair of scissors on Wye Close, Tranmere, on June 25, 2024. He pleaded guilty to the offence and was sentenced due to it being his second offence and while subject to recall.

Pleaded guilty to possessing a knife blade/sharp pointed article in a public place. Second offence and subject to recall. Ordered to pay £85 costs and £154 victim surcharge.

Sources: wirralglobe.co.uk

Grant Jackson

Possession of an offensive weapon in a public place

June 24, 2024

Sentence: 20 weeks in prison

Grant Jackson was found in possession of a hammer, classified as an offensive weapon, in a public place on Elephant Lane, Thatto Heath, on January 23, 2024. He had previously been convicted of a similar offence, and the court determined that the seriousness of the incident warranted an immediate custodial sentence, including a deprivation order for the hammer.

Pleaded guilty to possession of an offensive weapon. Has a previous conviction for the same offence. The court stated that the offence was so serious that only a custodial sentence can be justified and that he has a flagrant disregard for court orders.

Sources: sthelensstar.co.uk

Daren Pinnington

Burglary

June 20, 2024

Sentence: 52 weeks imprisonment, suspended for 2 years

Daren Pinnington, 43, of Kimberley Avenue, Thatto Heath, committed a burglary in Thatto Heath in July 2023. He was sentenced following his guilty plea, as part of efforts by Merseyside Police’s Operation Castle team to address opportunistic crimes.

Mckenzie Powell

Burglary

June 20, 2024

Sentence: 2 years imprisonment

McKenzie Powell, 19, of Sherdley Road, Sutton, committed a burglary in Thatto Heath in January 2025 and was found in possession of controlled drugs in April 2024. He was sentenced as part of Merseyside Police’s efforts to tackle burglary through Operation Castle.

Sentenced for burglary and possession of controlled drugs, with 12 months for each offence served consecutively.

Sources: sthelensstar.co.uk

Michelle Mcconnell

Possessing a fighting dog

June 17, 2024

Sentence: £300 compensation, £100 fine, £85 costs, £40 surcharge, and Contingent Destruction Order

Michelle McConnell, 41, of Hughes Avenue, Prescot, pleaded guilty to possessing or having custody of a fighting dog, specifically a male brown and white pit bull-type dog named Pablo, in violation of the Dangerous Dogs Act, on March 20, 2024.

Pleaded guilty to the charge. The court took the guilty plea into account and passed a Contingent Destruction Order on the dog, unless exempted.

Sources: sthelensstar.co.uk

Stephen Crook

Assault and intentional strangulation

June 1, 2024

Sentence: Three years imprisonment

Stephen Crook assaulted and attempted to strangle his ex-partner in her home in Wirral on March 23, 2024, after taking cocaine and drinking a bottle of vodka. He bit her on the arm, left the address, returned around 2am, and launched a prolonged assault lasting two hours. The victim had ended their two-and-a-half-year relationship in November 2023.

Pleaded guilty to causing actual bodily harm, intentional strangulation, and criminal damage. Had previous convictions for assault and controlling behaviour. Made subject of a five-year restraining order.

Sources: sthelensstar.co.uk

Jamie Buckley

Robbery

June 1, 2024

Sentence: 32 months imprisonment

Jamie Buckley committed a robbery at the Ashcroft Service Station in Fingerpost on April 3, 2024, where he pushed over a staff member, shouted aggressively, and threatened him while stealing cigarettes. The staff member remained calm during the frightening incident, and Buckley was heard on a 999 call demanding to be let out amid shouting.

James Campbell

Animal Welfare Act offence

May 28, 2024

Sentence: 8 weeks imprisonment, suspended for 12 months; 6-year ban on keeping animals; £200 fine

James Campbell, 50, owned a 21-month-old XL Bully dog named Zeus, which he had since April 2024 but failed to exempt as a banned breed. On or around August 7 and 8, 2023, he abused the dog in the rear yard of his home in Harrowby Road, Birkenhead, by repeatedly hitting her with a baseball bat, hurling bricks at her abdominal area, throwing pans of water, grabbing her by the neck, headbutting her, and punching her. He did not seek veterinary care for the dog's injuries, including significant swelling on her head from a strong hit. The dog exhibited signs of distress and attempts to escape. Zeus was removed by police on August 8, 2023, signed over by Campbell, and euthanised due to legislation on banned breeds.

Admitted one Animal Welfare Act offence. Claimed self-defence due to alleged dog bite, but evidence from videos and witnesses showed repeated abuse. Ordered to complete ten Rehabilitation Activity Requirement Days.

Sources: wirralglobe.co.uk

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