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Newcastle Crown Court Sentencing Results

Explore 753 verdicts at Newcastle Crown Court (Newcastle upon Tyne). Updated with the latest court outcomes.

Newcastle Crown Court
March 2026 39 cases
Carl Daniels
Rape and assault *
Sentence
jailed
Carl Daniels, of Walker, raped a woman on New Year's Eve and then assaulted her husband when he confronted Daniels over the attack.
Raped a woman in the street then attacked her partner when confronted.
Christopher Ormston
Public order offence *
Sentence
jailed
Christopher Ormston, of Benwell, engaged in a rooftop stand-off in Newcastle, causing significant disruption and financial loss to local businesses.
Caused local businesses to lose thousands of pounds and attracted a big group of people during rooftop stand-off. Started committing crimes at age 10.
Khamal Hussain
Rape and abuse *
Sentence
18 years imprisonment
Khamal Hussain, of South Shields, raped and abused two women after giving them ketamine and luring them to his home in Tyneside.
Targeted two women in sinister attacks after luring them to his home with ketamine.
Sam Tandy
Domestic violence *
Sentence
jailed
Sam Tandy committed domestic violence against his partner at a holiday park near Hexham, leaving her injured and scared.
Subjected his partner to a frightening attack which left her injured and scared during a short break near Hexham. Has 'distorted beliefs' about relationships.
Victoria Pedersen
Shop theft *
Sentence
compensation order
Victoria Pedersen, along with Lewis Carlson, entered a Sainsbury's Local on Broadway, Tynemouth, on January 31, 2026, just before 7pm. They placed various confectionery items into a plastic bag and attempted to leave without paying. A staff member tried to intervene by taking the bag from Pedersen, leading to Carlson's violent response. They stole a total of £45 worth of confectionery and fled towards Cullercoats Metro station. The incident was captured on CCTV.
Dealt with previously for shop theft by magistrates.
Lewis Carlson
Robbery *
Sentence
18 months imprisonment
On January 31, 2026, just before 7pm, Lewis Carlson and accomplice Victoria Pedersen entered Sainsbury's Local on Broadway, Tynemouth. They placed various confectionery items into a plastic bag and attempted to leave without paying. When a staff member tried to intervene by taking the bag from Pedersen, Carlson ran towards him shouting 'Get off the bag', grabbed him by the neck, pushed him into shelves, grappled with him, and threw large Toblerone bars at him, causing fleeting pain and discomfort. They stole £45 worth of confectionery and fled towards Cullercoats Metro station. The offence was caught on CCTV, leading to Carlson's identification and arrest.
Pleaded guilty to robbery. Has 25 previous convictions. Alcohol dependent and homeless at the time. Recorder Richard Herrmann noted his brazen and shameless attitude in the pre-sentence report.
Paul Batey
Rape *
Sentence
5 years imprisonment
Paul Batey, 35, of Dorset Avenue, Birtley, Gateshead, met the victim for the first time on the day of the incident. They consumed alcohol together, and she ended up at his home. He invited her to his bedroom to show her some record decks and forced himself on her despite her repeatedly telling him no and begging him to stop while crying. He was in the process of raping her when the quick-thinking victim dialled 999. The operator heard her crying and him shouting. Police arrived promptly, interrupting the offence. Batey, naked at the window, told officers to 'f*** off' but was arrested after pushing, punching, and kicking a PC. The victim reported the rape immediately and described severe ongoing impacts including feeling dirty, suicidal thoughts exacerbated by the offence, and multiple suicide attempts.
Pleaded guilty to rape and assaulting an emergency worker. Must sign the sex offenders register for life and was given a restraining order. Prior convictions but none for sexual offences.
Sabian Bejdo
Producing cannabis *
Sentence
20 months imprisonment
Sabian Bejdo was alone in a house in Lecondale, Leam Lane, Gateshead, when police arrived in January 2026 in response to reports of a large drugs factory. He opened the rear door, and officers discovered 164 mature cannabis plants and 213 cuttings, along with equipment for growing the drug. The operation was described as large and sophisticated with a follow-on crop prepared.
Pleaded guilty to producing cannabis. No previous convictions. Recorder Nathan Moxon noted the large and sophisticated operation with awareness of the scale, motivated by £20,000 debts to support family, not affluent lifestyle. Faces deportation as illegal immigrant.
Craig Rogers
Aggravated burglary *
Sentence
15 years imprisonment with extended licence of 4 years
Craig Rogers, along with Lee Justice and Lee Kinnell, targeted a vulnerable elderly couple in their Newcastle home in August 2023. The group smashed through patio doors while the victims were in bed, with Rogers and Justice masked and armed with an ice pick-style hammer and machete. They threatened to behead the woman and her dog, ransacked the house, and stole items of financial and sentimental value, laughing at the terrified husband who suffered from dementia and was in boxer shorts. Additionally, in February 2024, Rogers wounded a man in Westerhope by reversing his car into him after a dispute, causing a fractured vertebra in the neck.
Convicted after trial of aggravated burglary; also admitted wounding with intent. Has 93 previous convictions, including prior aggravated burglary.
Argenti Jahelezi
Wounding with intent *
Sentence
6 years and 4 months imprisonment
On March 8, 2025, in Teams, Gateshead, Argenti Jahelezi, 19, of Balmlaw, Gateshead, joined Lewis Thompson in attacking the victim after Thompson pulled him off an electric bike during a heated argument over a stolen bike accusation. Jahelezi produced a fearsome-looking knife and repeatedly stabbed the victim, causing four wounds to the armpit, back, side, and backside, damaging the lung and a major vein. The victim collapsed in a garden, near death, saved by paramedics' blood transfusion.
Admitted wounding with intent; originally charged with attempted murder; one prior conviction for common assault; from Albania, faces likely deportation; became involved at the end of the incident and is remorseful.
Sarah Gray
Fraud by abuse of position *
Sentence
20 months imprisonment suspended for 18 months, 120 hours unpaid work, 20 rehabilitation activity requirement days, mental health treatment requirement
Sarah Gray, a former finance manager at UK Industrial Tapes Ltd in Throckley, Newcastle, abused her position of trust by stealing £34,257.19 from the company between November 1, 2024, and May 31, 2025. She had direct access to bank accounts and authority to transfer funds. Gray diverted payments intended for suppliers into her own account by using the company name as a reference, sending what appeared to be double payments (one to herself), and directly transferring cash to herself. The fraud was discovered when suppliers raised concerns about missed payments, revealing her account as the recipient. She failed to return to work after the company hired additional staff due to performance issues. Gray was arrested in July 2025 at her new workplace and admitted the offence, stating she had spent all the money. The company, established in 1997, incurred total costs of around £70,000 including remediation efforts, damaging its reputation and staff confidence.
Pleaded guilty to one count of fraud by abuse of position. The sentence ensures she cannot work in a similar position again. Actions had significant financial and personal impact on the family-run business.
Lee Justice
Aggravated burglary *
Sentence
7 years imprisonment
Lee Justice, along with Craig Rogers and Lee Kinnell, committed an aggravated burglary in August 2023 against an elderly couple in Newcastle. Masked and armed with a machete, he participated in smashing into the home via patio doors while the victims were in bed, threatening decapitation, ransacking the property, and stealing valuables while terrorizing the dementia-suffering husband and his wife. Separately, Justice raided a café armed and masked, stealing valuables and causing damage; he also engaged in violent disorder and possessed an offensive weapon in June 2024 with two other men.
Pleaded guilty to aggravated burglary; also admitted separate aggravated burglary at a café, violent disorder, and possessing an offensive weapon. Has 77 previous convictions; drug issues cited.
Lee Kinnell
Aggravated burglary *
Sentence
6 years imprisonment
Lee Kinnell, along with Craig Rogers and Lee Justice, targeted an elderly couple's Newcastle home in August 2023. He reconnoitred the premises earlier that day by pretending to sell sunglasses. That night, the group smashed through patio doors while the victims were in bed, with two masked and armed with an ice pick-style hammer and machete. They threatened to behead the woman and her dog, ransacked the house, and stole items of financial and sentimental value, leaving the couple terrified.
Pleaded guilty to aggravated burglary. Has 24 previous convictions; acted to obtain cash for solicitor to gain access to children; expressed remorse.
Lewis Thompson
Wounding with intent *
Sentence
6 years and 4 months imprisonment
On March 8, 2025, in Teams, Gateshead, Lewis Thompson, 23, of Gainsborough Crescent, Gateshead, clashed with the victim who accused him of stealing a bike. After a heated argument, with the victim gesturing from an electric bike, Thompson pulled him off the bike. His associate then stabbed the victim multiple times. The victim suffered four stab wounds to armpit, back, side, and backside, damaging his lung and a major vein; he collapsed in a garden and required a blood transfusion at the scene to survive.
Admitted wounding with intent; originally charged with attempted murder; on suspended sentence for dangerous driving imposed in 2024; lost temper and pulled victim off bike but did not use weapon.
Michael Webb
Causing death by dangerous driving *
Sentence
13.5 years imprisonment, disqualified from driving for 15 years and 5 months
Michael Webb, 35, of Park Avenue, South Shields, drove a Skoda under the influence of cocaine at least 73mph on a 40mph road on the A1300 John Reid Road in South Shields on August 30, 2025, while attempting to undertake another car, lost control, and collided with a lamp-post and a tree, splitting the car in two and killing his brother Peter Webb, 40, and nephew Ben Webb, 12, who were passengers.
Pleaded guilty to two counts of causing death by dangerous driving. Must serve up to two-thirds behind bars.
Allan Bloomfield
False imprisonment and wounding *
Sentence
4 years and 8 months imprisonment
On May 19, 2025, around 3am, Allan Bloomfield arrived at the victim's home in Northumberland claiming he had been in hospital. He persuaded her to go to his home to talk, where he accused her of cheating and became verbally abusive. He spat in her face, grabbed her by the hair causing hair loss, dragged her around the flat for about 45 minutes, banged her against furniture and walls, took scissors from her cutting her hand, picked up a knife, punched her to the head and upper body, slapped her, threw her into a bedroom alcove causing bleeding from the back of her head, and threatened to kill her multiple times. The victim attempted to escape by opening a window and preparing to jump from the first floor but was dragged back. She eventually screamed for help, leading to police arrival. Bloomfield instructed her to lie to police but opened the door, ending the ordeal. She sustained swelling to her right eye, a cut and swelling to the back of her head, and a cut to her hand. The victim stated she truly believed she was going to die and has been left traumatised, anxious, depressed, and with a changed personality.
Pleaded guilty to false imprisonment (on basis he didn't deliberately lock her in and she only became aware she couldn't get out towards the end), wounding, threatening a person with a bladed article, and possessing cannabis. Given a ten-year restraining order. Has 60 previous convictions. Described as having had a promising career in football with Sunderland Academy, a traumatic life, issues with drugs, and attempts on his own life. Remorseful, with a toxic relationship noted.
Daniel Robson
Attempted sexual communication with a child, making and distributing indecent images *
Sentence
2 years suspended for 2 years with 200 hours unpaid work, sign sex offenders register, sexual harm prevention order for 10 years
Daniel Robson, 46, of Hastings Avenue, Kingston Park, Newcastle, engaged in sexual communication with a 14-year-old girl via the Kik app. He contacted police expressing concern for her welfare after she mentioned possible sex offences by family members, but officers discovered the sexual nature of their conversations. He allowed police to review the full chat history, leading to charges. His phone revealed indecent images of children, which he had also distributed to others, along with disturbing discussions about actions towards a child.
Pleaded guilty. No previous convictions. Genuine remorse expressed. Working, no mortgage after lottery win. Deleted social media accounts since offending.
Dawn Bartley
Public Order Offence *
Sentence
imprisoned
Women including Dawn Bartley kicked a victim in the head, punched and spat at her during a brawl in Newcastle city centre
Pleaded guilty to public order offences along with Helen Wilson, Donna Cox and Samantha McDonald; involved in kicking, punching and spitting during city centre brawl
Helen Wilson
Public Order Offence *
Sentence
imprisoned
Women including Helen Wilson kicked a victim in the head, punched and spat at her during a brawl in Newcastle city centre
Pleaded guilty to public order offences along with Dawn Bartley, Donna Cox and Samantha McDonald; involved in kicking, punching and spitting during city centre brawl
William Crallan
Making indecent images of children and possessing prohibited and extreme pornographic images *
Sentence
10 months suspended for two years
William Crallan, 81, of West Allotment in North Tyneside, collected hundreds of repugnant videos and pictures of babies and children being abused and raped since September 2007. The images were discovered on 10 January 2025 by an IT worker performing a software update on his laptop, who saw a collage of children ranging from babies to about seven years old being abused. Police seized devices and found 1,008 indecent images of children, including 292 in the most serious category, with victims averaging five or six years old up to 15. Over 30,000 additional images were found but not fully categorised. Online searches for indecent images of children were also discovered.
Admitted making indecent images of children and possessing prohibited and extreme pornographic images. Ordered to comply with a sexual harm prevention order and sign the sex offender register for 10 years. Recorder Mark Ainsworth noted the offender's previous good character but emphasized the demand created for child abuse.
Mark Burton
Sexual Abuse *
Sentence
12 years imprisonment
Former North East councillor Mark Burton sexually abused a boy while serving as a councillor in Darlington, leaving the victim battling mental health issues
Sexually abused a boy and left him battling mental health issues; was a councillor in Darlington at the time
Joshua Snow
Voyeurism *
Sentence
jailed
School caretaker Joshua Snow secretly filmed teenage girls getting changed by placing his mobile phone over the top of a door
Placed his mobile phone over the top of a door to secretly film teenage girls getting changed
Joseph Bell
Burglary *
Sentence
876 days imprisonment
Joseph Bell, 45, of Howdon Road, North Shields, crept into a house in Whitley Bay around 5pm on July 13, 2025. The victim went upstairs to her bedroom and came face to face with him, an unknown male. He claimed he was lost. She ordered him out, and he left via the front door. Her daughter was in the living room at the time. Approximately 45 minutes later, the victim received notifications of financial transactions on her bank card at a Co-op store and an amusements arcade in Whitley Bay, totaling £35.10 successful and £106.60 declined. She discovered her £150 Ralph Lauren purse, containing the bank card, loose change, and a picture of her mum, was missing from a side table in her bedroom. Police checked CCTV at the Co-op, where Bell was seen making the transactions.
Pleaded guilty to burglary. Has 115 previous convictions spanning 30 years, including 66 for theft and similar, eight house burglaries and many non-dwelling burglaries. Homeless at the time, having been released from a previous prison sentence. Expressed remorse and shame.
Elton Soufaj
Producing cannabis *
Sentence
30 months imprisonment
Elton Soufaj was found in a block of flats in Lynemouth, Northumberland, converted into a cannabis farm containing 250 cannabis plants. Police raided the address on October 10, 2025, after intelligence about drug growing. CCTV was installed, electricity bypassed with wires from walls, and a wall knocked through to a disused apartment. Videos of large bags of cannabis and the grow were found on his phone. The only other occupied property housed a family.
Pleaded guilty to producing cannabis. Role limited to gardener, watering and tending plants. Remorseful and ashamed. Has 17 previous convictions, including possessing drugs and false identity documents. Debt from Albania and travel to UK motivated involvement.
Erjon Sufaj
Producing cannabis *
Sentence
2 years imprisonment
Erjon Sufaj was found in a flat next to the cannabis farm in a block of flats in Lynemouth, Northumberland, containing 250 cannabis plants. Police raided on October 10, 2025, following intelligence. The setup included bypassed electricity, CCTV, and a knocked-through wall to a disused apartment. The only other occupied property housed a family.
Pleaded guilty to producing cannabis. Immature with no influence, worked there for a matter of days. Expressed remorse. No previous convictions. Vulnerability exploited due to deprived background; came to UK to provide for family.
John Henderson
Rape and sexual assault of a child *
Sentence
14 years imprisonment with extended licence of 4 years
John Henderson, a former Royal Navy sailor from Northumberland, raped and sexually assaulted a young boy while on leave from the Navy. The abuse caused injury to the victim, who informed Henderson it hurt, but he continued. Henderson attempted to buy the boy's silence with sweets. The offences occurred before similar crimes against another boy for which he is already serving 15 years. The victim reported being shocked, developing anxiety and depression, and feeling his life was ruined, with guilt for not speaking out sooner.
Pleading guilty to rape and sexual assault of a child. Already serving 15-year sentence for similar offences against another boy. Given restraining order and placed on sex offenders register. Judge Gavin Doig noted grave effect on victim's life. Defence mentioned constructive prison attitude and issues with sexuality in the Navy.
Lewis Herman
Sexual activity with a child *
Sentence
6 years imprisonment
Lewis Herman, aged 20 at the time, began communicating with a 14-year-old girl on Snapchat, falsely claiming to be 17. He requested pictures of her breasts and bottom, sent a recording of himself carrying out a sex act, and arranged to drive to her home where sexual activity took place in his car in the Teesside area. A similar incident occurred on a second occasion. The offences were reported to police by a subsequent partner.
Pleaded guilty to causing the sending of child abuse images and inciting the sending of images. Convicted of eight offences including sexual communication with a child, causing a child to watch a sexual act, sexual activity with a child and inciting a child to engage in sexual activity. Must sign the sex offenders register for life and subject to a sexual harm prevention order and a restraining order for ten years.
Samantha Mcdonald
Public order offence *
Sentence
16 weeks imprisonment, suspended for 12 months
Samantha McDonald, 29, of Gateshead, joined a daylight brawl in Newcastle City Centre on September 29, 2025, outside The People's Kitchen. She intervened by punching Dawn Bartley, spat at her, grabbed her hair, dragged her, mounted her to deliver multiple punches, and kicked her to the head. The fight involved kicks to the face, punches, and hair pulling among four women, witnessed by passers-by. McDonald was arrested after police intervention.
Pleaded guilty to public order offence. Must complete 150 hours of unpaid work. Has three prior offences. Suffered domestic violence; ex-partner in custody. Has overcome crack-cocaine and alcohol issues and reconnected with father. Judge noted her progress and short record allowed suspension, but warned of immediate custody for breach.
Gary Short
Indecent assault and indecency with a child *
Sentence
11 years imprisonment
Gary Short sexually abused a young boy on multiple occasions, including one incident in a public toilet in South Tyneside, giving the victim 50p after one attack and telling him to keep it secret. The abuse stole the victim's carefree childhood, leading to long-term emotional trauma, shame, and relationship difficulties. Short was convicted following a trial where the jury saw through his lies.
Found guilty by a jury of four counts of indecency with a child and one count of indecent assault. Sentence to run consecutive to existing 20-year sentence. Judge Carolyn Scott remarked on the lasting impact and lack of shame.
Daniel Connell
Driving over the specified drug limit and possession of cannabis *
Sentence
£180 fine, £85 costs, £72 victim surcharge, 12 months driving ban
On October 3, 2025, Daniel Connell, 33, of West Thorp in Newbiggin Hall, was stopped by police on the A1 northbound in his Ford Focus for speeding. Officers smelled cannabis and found a tub containing the drug on the front passenger seat. He failed a roadside drugs swipe and a subsequent blood test confirmed he was over the limit for THC. Connell had been at a friend's house watching football before driving and immediately informed police of the cannabis location.
Pleaded guilty to driving over the specified drug limit and possession of cannabis. Lost his licence and job as a mobile vehicle valeter. Had one prior conviction for drink-driving in 2013.
Vieri Chapman
Rape *
Sentence
10 years imprisonment
Vieri Chapman, along with Taylor Dove, raped a young woman at the same time in a dehumanising attack after she rebuffed suggestions of a threesome. The victim was crying and shocked, unable to push them off or verbally express lack of consent. She was left bleeding and distraught. The attack was described as vile and degrading.
Also known as Jevonni Copley. Denied rape but found guilty by jury. Has autism. Previously had a modelling contract and worked as a DJ, careers he cannot return to due to conviction. Must sign sex offenders register for life and given restraining order.
Taylor Dove
Rape *
Sentence
12 years imprisonment
Taylor Dove and Vieri Chapman raped a young woman at the same time in a dehumanising attack after she rebuffed suggestions of a threesome. The victim was crying and shocked, unable to push them off or verbally express lack of consent. She was left bleeding and distraught. Dove bragged about the incident afterwards. Separately, Dove raped another teenager while she was asleep, for which he was on bail at the time of the main offence.
Denied rape but found guilty by jury. Also convicted of raping another teenager while she was asleep. On bail for the other rape at the time. Must sign sex offenders register for life and given restraining order. Judge noted determination to have sexual experience regardless of consent, influenced by alcohol and sense of entitlement.
Mark Amery
Assault occasioning actual bodily harm *
Sentence
30 months imprisonment
On November 27, 2025, Mark Amery, 37, of Azalea Terrace, Sunderland, unexpectedly turned up at his former partner's home in Washington where she was with her young son. Despite being told he could not enter, he barged past her demanding bus fare and water. He accused her of seeing someone else, called her abusive names, and referenced hearing voices and her having sex with someone else while he was in prison. He punched her in the head and arms, took her phone when she tried to call police, and used a butter knife to make stabbing motions towards her and hold it to her chin. He threatened to kill her and terrorise her family if she got him sent back to jail. He punched her to the back of the head as she tried to escape, knocking her into bushes. She suffered bruises to her temple, back of head, arms and legs, concussion with dizziness and vision problems, increased anxiety, heart palpitations, and had to live in a refuge with her son who had nightmares. Police found her phone smashed and damage to the living room door.
Admitted assault occasioning actual bodily harm, threatening with a bladed article and criminal damage. Has 17 previous convictions, including for assaulting the same victim and breaching a non molestation order. Ten-year restraining order imposed. Mental health played a part in the offences.
Shaun Allan
GBH *
Sentence
18 months imprisonment
On July 7, 2025, at the Fellsider pub in Whickham during his grandfather's wake, Shaun Allan argued with Paul Wharton's uncle. When Paul intervened in defence of his uncle and blew a kiss while leaving the argument, Allan ran after him and punched him on the right side of the face, causing Paul to collapse. Paul suffered a fractured skull, bleeding on the brain, bruising, severe swelling, required emergency surgery, ventilator, and skull removal; he remains in hospital with ongoing issues including physio, cognitive problems, seizures, and uncertain recovery.
Pleaded guilty to GBH. No previous convictions. Defendant expressed remorse and was upset during the hearing. Defence noted the offence was not particularly violent but had catastrophic consequences due to one punch in drink.
Jason Dow
GBH *
Sentence
14 months imprisonment
Jason Dow, 58, of Chesters Gardens, Crawcrook, repeatedly battered his friend with a metal pole in Crawcrook Park after a silly disagreement over a football match on September 14, 2025. The pair, friends for three years, agreed to meet to fight. Dow chased the victim, striking him around 20 times to the head and body, causing fractures to both arms, a laceration to the forehead, and a deep laceration to the back of the head requiring stitches. The victim feared for his life and suffered mental trauma including anxiety and sleepless nights. The incident was captured on CCTV. Eight cannabis plants were found when Dow was arrested.
Pleaded guilty to GBH and producing eight cannabis plants. Recorder Geraldine Kelly KC noted it was an utterly disgraceful incident of violence in a public place using a weapon repeatedly. Prior convictions include 17 previous offenses and a 58-month sentence for conspiracy to rob.
Jack Kennedy
Attempting to cause GBH with intent *
Sentence
30 months imprisonment
On October 24, 2023, at around 11pm, police were called to accommodation on Westmorland Road, Newcastle, for people recently released from custody, after reports of Jack Kennedy acting aggressively. He had warned staff he would not go quietly upon arrest. As PC Mills ascended the stairs to apprehend him, Kennedy threw a mug at the officer's chest, then grabbed him by the thighs, lifted him, and hurled him backwards down the stairs, landing on his head with Kennedy on top. The officer feared serious spinal injury but sustained only pain and bruising to his back and neck. Other officers used PAVA spray to subdue Kennedy.
Admitted attempting to cause GBH with intent. Has 26 previous convictions, including for assaulting police. Released from prison on licence at the time. Expressed remorse and offered to write an apology. Recorder Jason Pitter KC noted the actions could have caused much more serious injury and were terrifying for the officer.
Christopher Alexander
Conspiracy to supply class A drugs *
Sentence
14 years and 10 months imprisonment
Christopher Alexander, 46, from Offerton Lane in Houghton-le-Spring, Sunderland, organised the supply of 10kg of cocaine worth £400,000 across the UK. His activities were coordinated via EncroChat encrypted mobile chats between March and June 2020. He was arrested and charged with conspiracy to supply class A drugs after extradition from Spain.
Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply class A drugs. Played a key role in organising the supply of 10kg of cocaine as part of a criminal network uncovered in Operation Venetic. Detained in Spain in September 2022 and extradited to the UK in May 2023.
Jonathon Ridley
Arson being reckless as to whether life is endangered *
Sentence
33 months imprisonment
Jonathon Ridley, 34, set fire to his upstairs council flat in a block of four on Mardale Gardens, Gateshead, on October 23, 2025. The fire was started deliberately with a naked flame applied to furniture and furnishings in the living room behind the front door, causing damage to the base of a seat and the floor, with total cost of £1,485. Fire service forced entry after being told he was still inside and quickly extinguished the fire.
Pleaded guilty to arson being reckless as to whether life is endangered. Recorder Jason Pitter KC noted the risk and endangerment of life makes the offence serious. Defence stated he is a vulnerable individual with learning difficulties and no responsible guidance. Has 39 previous convictions.
Alexis Ali
Burglary *
Sentence
3 years imprisonment
Alexis Ali burgled the home of a 77-year-old pensioner in North Shields on September 2, 2024, after the victim generously gave her £60 cash and personal items upon hearing her claim of being six months pregnant and attacked by her partner. Ali stole an additional £40 cash and broke into a British Heart Foundation charity box, taking £10. She had previously encountered the victim two weeks earlier when her boyfriend was cleaning the victim's windows. Ali also admitted to another burglary, attempted burglary, and theft committed in June 2023 in North Shields. The victim reported increased anxiety, feeling vulnerable, and loss of trust in people.
Pleaded guilty to burglary and also admitted another burglary, attempted burglary and theft. Has 36 previous convictions. Recorder Felicity Davies described it as a thoroughly nasty offence against a kind and caring victim. Defence stated she is truly remorseful, has a traumatic background, heroin addiction, and wishes to change her life.
February 2026 11 cases
Tygue Crowther
Encouraging terrorism *
Sentence
4 years 9 months imprisonment
Tygue Crowther, 36, of Cleckheaton, used social media under an alias to share racist and antisemitic views, Nazi propaganda, and attempted to recruit others to set up a neo-Nazi group.
Admitted to encouraging terrorism, dissemination of a terrorist publication and six counts of possession of documents likely to be useful to a terrorist. Shared extreme right-wing views and Nazi propaganda to recruit for a neo-Nazi group.
Elisa Smith
Assault and affray *
Sentence
13 months imprisonment suspended for 18 months with 200 hours unpaid work
On August 10, 2024, Elisa Smith, 19, and her mother Donna Ellis were out drinking in Newcastle city centre to celebrate Ellis' upcoming marriage. While the victim was smoking outside The Black Garter pub, Ellis referred to Smith as a 's**g', upsetting her. The victim told them to walk away, prompting Ellis to square up aggressively and gesture for a fight. The situation escalated, leading Ellis to punch the victim in the face. Smith then took hold of the victim and dragged her to the ground, where both repeatedly punched and kicked her until she lost consciousness. They continued throwing punches at others, breaking a betting shop window in the brawl captured on CCTV. The victim suffered fractures to her nose and septum, requiring a procedure to reset it, and experienced ongoing headaches, fear of crowds, panic attacks, and impacts on her employment as a mental health support worker.
Pleaded guilty to assault and affray. No previous convictions. Had a difficult upbringing but has qualifications and employment. The day was meant to be a joyous event for her mother's hen do.
Donna Ellis
Assault and affray *
Sentence
29 months imprisonment
On August 10, 2024, Donna Ellis, 38, and her daughter Elisa Smith were out drinking in Newcastle city centre to celebrate Ellis' upcoming marriage. While the victim was smoking outside The Black Garter pub, Ellis referred to her daughter as a 's**g', upsetting Smith. The victim told them to walk away, prompting Ellis to square up aggressively and gesture for a fight. The situation escalated, leading Ellis to punch the victim in the face. Smith then dragged her to the ground, and both repeatedly punched and kicked her until she lost consciousness. They continued throwing punches at others, breaking a betting shop window in the brawl captured on CCTV. Ellis attempted to headbutt a police officer upon arrest. The victim suffered fractures to her nose and septum, requiring a procedure to reset it, and experienced ongoing headaches, fear of crowds, panic attacks, and impacts on her employment as a mental health support worker.
Pleaded guilty to assault, affray, and assaulting an emergency worker. Has 103 previous convictions. Recorder Richard Stubbs described it as an episode of mindless violence. Apologised for her behaviour and expressed shame over the incident.
Steven Taylor
Outraging public decency and exposure *
Sentence
18-month community order with 9-month drug rehabilitation requirement and mental health treatment requirement; 5 years on sex offenders register
On August 26, around 12.20pm, Steven Taylor was seen walking naked along Stepney Road, Shieldfield, Newcastle, talking to himself agitatedly and going through bins at a pizza shop. He was arrested and bailed. Three days later, around 10pm in Sandyford, Newcastle, he was again seen walking naked on the street, speaking incoherently, and caused damage in a police car after being detained. The 44-year-old, of no fixed address, has 289 previous convictions including 173 for theft but none for sexual offences. He was mentally unwell due to changed accommodation leading to daily drug and alcohol abuse, negatively impacting his psychosis medication.
Pleaded guilty. Served equivalent of 12-month sentence on remand. Has schizophrenia and was psychotic at the time, not taking medication, abusing substances. Recorder David Gordon noted he didn't understand the gross inappropriateness of walking naked in public. Dramatic improvement in mental health during remand.
Lee Regan
GBH *
Sentence
3 years imprisonment
On November 7, 2025, Lee Regan, high on laughing gas and alcohol, attacked his partner in a jealous rage at his brother's home in Newcastle. He stamped on her head until she lost consciousness, cut her arm and ear with a knife, leaving her with enormous facial swelling, extensive bruising, lacerations, and requiring medical attention after fleeing to a McDonald's. Shortly after, he went to her home where her daughter was celebrating her 18th birthday party, brandished the knife, claimed he had 'bashed' her mother for cheating, and threatened to hurt people, causing guests to flee in fear. He was arrested a week later hiding in a backyard.
Pleaded guilty to GBH, affray and possessing a bladed article. Has 51 previous convictions. Expressed remorse and is ashamed of his actions. Ran a half marathon in custody to raise money for charity.
Michael Mccann
Attempted robbery *
Sentence
18 months imprisonment
On December 19, 2025, Michael McCann, aged 41 and of no fixed address, entered the Tesco Express shop on Broad Chare, just off Newcastle Quayside, with his hands in his pockets, claiming to be armed with a gun. He demanded money from the till and threatened to shoot people. Staff assessed the threat as a ruse, called his bluff, locked the doors, and contacted the police. McCann waited and was arrested on site. The incident caused anxiety and distress to innocent staff.
Pleaded guilty to attempted robbery. Has 66 previous convictions. Pre-sentence report described as 'somewhat depressing document'; defendant is becoming 'somewhat institutionalised', homeless, and feeling helpless at the time of the offence. Difficult childhood mentioned. Judge encouraged turning life around.
David Robson
Sexual assault, assault by penetration and strangulation *
Sentence
12.5 years imprisonment with extended licence of 4 years
David Robson subjected two women to violent sexual attacks within minutes of each other near the BBC Newcastle studios in the early hours of August 23, 2024, after they left the Come Together music festival on Newcastle's Town Moor. The first victim, aged 24, was approached aggressively by Robson who grabbed her clothing and genital area; she escaped to the BBC building where security guards deterred him. The second victim, aged 54, was pulled to the ground, punched repeatedly, strangled, sexually violated, and dragged towards bushes; she escaped with a superhuman effort and flagged down a car for help. Robson was identified via DNA evidence left on both victims.
Admitted sexual assault, assault by penetration and strangulation. Must sign sex offenders register for life, given sexual harm prevention order and restraining orders. Judge Gavin Doig noted he poses a very high risk of serious harm. Has 21 previous convictions including seven sex offences.
John Maughan
Placing an imitation explosive device with intent to induce belief it would explode *
Sentence
16 months imprisonment
On the morning of November 17, 2025, John Maughan, 49, of Lynemouth Cottages, Morpeth, entered a Nisa store on Durham Road, Birtley, Gateshead, purchased tape, and then taped an empty petrol can with a clock attached to a lamppost outside the shop as a 'stupid joke'. Staff noticed the device, which resembled an explosive, leading to panic and a police call. A 100m cordon was established, residents were evacuated to a local leisure centre, and an army Explosive Ordnance Disposal team used a robot to perform a controlled explosion, confirming it was not viable. The shop closed from 9am to 4pm, losing £2,000 in takings. Police tracked Maughan's Ford Transit van to Jesmond, arrested him, and found matching tape in the vehicle. CCTV confirmed his actions. The incident occurred during Monday morning rush hour, paralysing the area near the A1.
Pleaded guilty. Has 25 previous convictions. Judge noted the offence caused significant concern due to recent terrorist attacks and the disruption it caused.
Kieron Lewis
Sexual exploitation of a child *
Sentence
4 years and 10 months imprisonment
Kieron Lewis, 33, and his wife Rebecca Bowey, 25, from Houghton-le-Spring, Sunderland, committed multiple sexual offences against two children over a number of years. Northumbria Police's POLIT department uncovered evidence starting from an investigation in October 2022. The offences included sexual assault by touching, sexual exploitation of a child, voyeurism, and possession of indecent images.
Admitted offences including making indecent images of children, possessing a prohibited image of a child, possession of a class A image, sexual assault by touching, sexual exploitation of a child x 2, and voyeurism.
Rebecca Bowey
Sexual exploitation of a child *
Sentence
4 years and 1 month imprisonment
Rebecca Bowey, 25, and her husband Kieron Lewis, 33, from Houghton-le-Spring, Sunderland, committed multiple sexual offences against two children over a number of years. Northumbria Police's POLIT department uncovered evidence starting from an investigation in October 2022. The offences included inciting a child to engage in a sexual act, causing a child to watch a sexual act, and possession of indecent images.
Admitted offences including inciting a child to engage in a sexual act, causing a child to watch a sexual act, possession of an indecent image of a child, and sexual exploitation of a child.
Jetmir Serjanaj
Production of cannabis *
Sentence
26 months imprisonment
On January 26, 2026, police raided a property on Richard Street in Hetton-le-Hole after a drone detected excessive heat indicating a cannabis farm. They discovered a large-scale commercial operation with multiple grow rooms across three floors in a residential property. Jetmir Serjanaj, an illegal immigrant, was found inside helping to look after the operation by watering the plants. He gave no comment but provided a statement claiming limited involvement and no knowledge of ownership.
Pleaded guilty to being concerned in the production of cannabis. Defence argued he was trafficked and exploited as an Albanian national with no English, limited involvement to watering plants, no financial benefit.

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

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

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THE LAW COURTS, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3LA, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3LA, United Kingdom
+441912012000
Wheelchair accessible parking, Wheelchair accessible entrance
Monday - Friday: 08:30 - 17:00

About Newcastle Crown Court

Newcastle Crown Court, located in Newcastle upon Tyne, is a Crown Court that handles serious criminal cases including murder, rape, robbery, and other indictable offences. With 753 sentencing records in our database, it is one of the Crown Courts serving the Newcastle upon Tyne area. Crown Courts sit with a judge and jury, and have the power to impose the full range of sentences available under UK law.

The court can be found at THE LAW COURTS, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3LA, NE1 3LA.

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

For enquiries about cases heard at this court, you can contact the court by telephone on +441912012000 or visit the official court website for further information.

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

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