Newcastle Crown Court Sentencing Results

Explore 635 verdicts at Newcastle Crown Court (Newcastle upon Tyne). Updated with the latest court outcomes.

Dean Chalmers

Outraging public decency

January 28, 2026

Sentence: 18 month community order

On an evening in June 2025, Dean Chalmers was seen by CCTV operators lying on the ground behind a council vehicle in Manors Car Park, Newcastle, masturbating in plain view. Several members of the public entered and left the car park and could easily have seen him. He continued lying on the ground with his penis exposed until security officers arrived and spoke to him. He believed he was concealed but was horrified when discovered.

Pleaded guilty to outraging public decency. Judge extended previous suspended sentence's operational period by six months. Has 74 previous convictions, including 102 months imprisonment in 2015 for sex offences and a suspended sentence last year for failing to comply with sex offender registration requirements. Served time on remand. Alcohol free since September and taking steps to address offending behaviour.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Amit Gulati

Rape

January 26, 2026

Sentence: 27 years imprisonment plus 1 year extended licence

Amit Gulati, 42, of Beaumont Street, Blyth, subjected two vulnerable schoolgirls to a series of shocking sexual attacks to satisfy his twisted desires, leaving them traumatised. He carried out at least 56 attacks, including multiple rapes and other sexual offences. Gulati introduced one victim to his friend and encouraged him to abuse the other. The abuse began when one victim was an innocent child of 12, causing severe mental health issues, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, and loss of childhood.

Convicted of 19 offences encompassing at least 56 attacks. No previous convictions. Judge Gavin Doig noted the offending was of the utmost seriousness. Must serve two-thirds behind bars. Sign sex offenders register for life, indefinite sexual harm prevention order, and restraining order.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Manideep Bolishetty

Rape

January 26, 2026

Sentence: 7 years imprisonment

Manideep Bolishetty, 27, of Tamworth Road, Newcastle, sexually abused the two vulnerable victims after being introduced to one by Amit Gulati and encouraged to molest the other. His offences included two counts of rape and one sexual assault as part of the extended period of serious sexual abuse against the schoolgirls.

Convicted of two counts of rape and one of sexual assault. Has an engineering degree and claimed ignorance of the age of consent. Sign sex offenders register for life, indefinite sexual harm prevention order, and restraining order.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Michael Charville

Murder

January 23, 2026

Sentence: life imprisonment with minimum term of 19 years

Michael Charville, aged 44 of no fixed address, served as the getaway driver for the gang that murdered Jordan Hogg. On February 27, 2025, he drove Sidney Bashford, Oliver Connelly, and Ryan Moore to Mr Hogg's ground floor flat on Fonteyn Court in Hemlington, aware they were armed with knives and machetes. The group entered the flat for six seconds, where Bashford fatally slashed Mr Hogg's neck. Charville then drove the killers away, after which the weapons were hidden in Fairy Dell Park and the van set on fire.

Kaiden Mciver

Murder

January 23, 2026

Sentence: life imprisonment with minimum term of 15 years

Kaiden McIver, aged 17 from Beckenham Gardens, Middlesbrough, was the youngest member of the gang involved in the murder of Jordan Hogg. He stayed outside Mr Hogg's ground floor flat on Fonteyn Court in Hemlington on February 27, 2025, armed with a machete, while others entered the flat. The attack occurred shortly before midnight after the gang mistakenly believed Mr Hogg was involved in stealing an e-bike from a drugs runner. McIver was exploited by older criminals and participated in the confrontation that led to the fatal slashing of Mr Hogg's neck.

Victim of exploitation by older criminals; reporting restriction lifted as he turns 18.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Oliver Connelly

Murder

January 23, 2026

Sentence: life imprisonment with minimum term of 22 years

Oliver Connelly, aged 28 from Elmhurst Gardens, Middlesbrough, entered Jordan Hogg's ground floor flat on Fonteyn Court in Hemlington on February 27, 2025, armed with a machete. The gang, including Connelly, attacked Mr Hogg on the mistaken belief he was involved in stealing an e-bike used in a cocaine delivery business run by Sidney Bashford. The intrusion lasted six seconds, resulting in a fatal 13cm slashing wound to Mr Hogg's neck from ear to skull base. Connelly participated in hiding the weapons and fleeing the scene.

Ryan Moore

Murder

January 23, 2026

Sentence: life imprisonment with minimum term of 22 years

Ryan Moore, aged 23 of no fixed address, was part of the gang that entered Jordan Hogg's ground floor flat on Fonteyn Court in Hemlington on February 27, 2025, following the mistaken belief that Mr Hogg stole an e-bike from a drugs runner in Sidney Bashford's Teesside cocaine operation. Armed, the group confronted Mr Hogg shortly before midnight, resulting in a fatal six-second attack where Bashford slashed his neck with a 13cm wound from ear to skull base. Moore helped hide the knife and machetes in Fairy Dell Park and burn the getaway van; he later confessed details while remanded in HMP Holme House.

Admitted involvement to prison officer while on remand, stating 'it was meant to slash his face but almost decapitated him'; blamed others during trial.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Sean Soanes

Indecent assault on a girl under 14 years

January 23, 2026

Sentence: 4 years imprisonment with a minimum of 32 months to serve

Sean Soanes, then a teenager, sexually assaulted four schoolgirls in Newcastle in the early 1980s. The victims reported the assaults to police in 2023 after living with the consequences for most of their lives. He was charged with six counts of indecent assault on a girl under 14 years and one count of gross indecency with a girl under 14 years. Soanes denied the offences initially but pleaded guilty to all seven counts in December before the trial.

Entered a guilty plea to seven offences ahead of trial. Handed restraining orders against the victims. Placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register for life.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Sidney Bashford

Murder

January 23, 2026

Sentence: life imprisonment with minimum term of 27 years

Sidney Bashford, aged 29 of no fixed address in Middlesbrough, orchestrated the murder of innocent Jordan Hogg after an e-bike worth £3,500 was stolen from one of his drug runners in a Teesside cocaine operation. On February 27, 2025, Bashford led three men into Mr Hogg's flat on Fonteyn Court in Hemlington, mistakenly believing him responsible for the theft. Armed with a knife, Bashford slashed Mr Hogg's neck, causing a deep 13cm wound that severed from ear to skull base. The attack lasted six seconds; Bashford then fled abroad, while weapons were hidden and the getaway van burned.

Orchestrated the attack; ran cocaine business; fled to Ireland and France after the murder.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Agita Cica

Theft

January 23, 2026

Sentence: 120 hours unpaid work, 10 days rehabilitation activity, £2,842.99 compensation, £114 victim surcharge, £85 prosecution costs

Agita Cica, 27, from Crewe, stole more than £2,400 worth of designer fragrances from John Lewis in Cheadle, Stockport, during four separate visits in August 2024. She was caught on camera pushing a pram and slipping perfumes into her bag. She evaded police for over a year, failed to appear at Stockport Magistrates Court in October 2024, and surrendered in Northumbria on November 4, 2025.

Pleaded guilty to four counts of theft. Banned from every John Lewis store in England and Wales for 12 months via criminal behaviour order. Offending described as deliberate, organised and persistent.

Sources: manchestereveningnews.co.uk

Thomas Hobbs

Rape

January 23, 2026

Sentence: 22 years imprisonment with 1 year extended licence

Thomas Hobbs raped and sexually abused a young girl in Northumberland, telling her they were 'just playing' before the acts. He reacted angrily when she said she did not like it, hitting her, slamming her against a wall, and on one occasion burning her hand with a gas cooker. He threatened to stab her and her family if anyone found out. The abuse occurred around the same time as similar offences against another child. The victim came forward while the earlier case was ongoing, leading to this conviction. The offences have caused the girl to self-harm, avoid people especially older men, and severely impacted her and her mother's physical and mental health.

Pleaded not guilty but found guilty by jury. Concurrent to prior 19-year sentence for similar offences against another victim. Recorder Toby Hedworth KC noted grave offences with profound psychological effect on victim and parents. Defence stated no mitigation, offender in cognitive decline.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Steward Strong

Dangerous driving

January 22, 2026

Sentence: 26 months imprisonment

On October 16, 2025, just before 2am, police spotted Steward Strong driving an Audi in Ashington, heading towards Newbiggin. Officers signalled for him to pull over, but he made off at speed, sparking a chase. Police could barely keep up as he drove off the road onto grass and they lost sight. The police helicopter spotted him in Killingworth, where a stinger device burst his tyres, but he continued driving on the wrong side of the road into blind bends before stopping. He was under the influence of drugs, leading police on a pursuit reaching 90mph in 30mph areas.

Pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, driving without a licence or insurance, drug driving and possessing cocaine. Breached a suspended sentence for commercial burglary and theft imposed in December 2024. Recorder David Gordon noted the significant pursuit, high speeds up to 90mph, dangerous manoeuvres, and that no injuries or damage occurred by luck. Defence stated he has made efforts to stop using drugs previously but relapsed due to negative influences.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Scott Hall

Attempting to engage in sexual communications with a child

January 22, 2026

Sentence: 12 months suspended for two years with rehabilitation requirements and mental health treatment requirements

Scott Hall, 28, of Mill Lane, Whitburn, South Tyneside, thought he was chatting to a 12-year-old schoolgirl over Snapchat last January but a law enforcement operative was operating the decoy profile. He called himself 'George' on the app and said he was from Birmingham. Hall turned the conversation sexual, asked about the girl's underwear and pestered her to send him pictures of her bottom from the toilets at school. He asked if she was going to be a 'good girl for daddy' and sent her an explicit video of himself having sex with an adult female. He has been in custody on remand since last November.

No previous convictions. Has psychological difficulties, is emotionally vulnerable and has social anxiety. Has support in the community and a realistic prospect of rehabilitation. Pleaded guilty.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Shaun Flaherty

Theft from the person of another

January 21, 2026

Sentence: £100 fine and £100 compensation

On December 20, 2025, Shaun Flaherty, 38, stole a nine-year-old bulldog named Lizzie from outside Molineux Pharmacy in Byker, Newcastle, while the owner Felicity Dickinson was inside collecting medication. CCTV footage showed Flaherty entering the pharmacy, exiting, untying the dog, and leaving with it. The dog was found two days later at a nearby property, leading to his arrest. He claimed he stole the pet because he was 'lonely'.

Admitted theft from the person of another. Has 20 prior theft convictions. Suffered from learning difficulties and mental health issues but had stayed out of trouble since 2023.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Callum Barnes

Arson

January 21, 2026

Sentence: 3 years imprisonment

On a night in May 2025, Callum Barnes, 26, of Hunter Street, Shiney Row, Sunderland, started two fires at a stranger's home in Sunderland while intoxicated on alcohol and benzodiazepines. The victim, a roofing contractor, was not home at the time but returned to find flames engulfing the front of the house, including the upstairs window, his Ford Transit van, a shed, and some conifers. The damage to the van and tools inside cost £3,000, with house repairs estimated at tens of thousands. The victim, who raised his children in the house, felt physically sick upon seeing the destruction and questioned why Barnes, whom he did not know, targeted him.

Admitted arson being reckless to whether life would be endangered. Recorder Bryan Cox KC noted it was a senseless piece of criminality driven by intoxication. Defendant has psychological problems, no recollection of the event due to alcohol and benzodiazepines, not heavily convicted, and has community support.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Graham Boyd

Stalking involving serious alarm or distress

January 21, 2026

Sentence: 13 months imprisonment suspended for 2 years, 200 hours unpaid work, 6 months GPS monitored tag

Graham Boyd, aged 43, of Parkside Court, Ashington, stalked his ex-partner between February and April 2025. He planted secret iPhones connected to chargers in her car using the 'Find my iPhone' app to track her location. He sent unsolicited gifts including flowers, a kettle, toaster, and juicer; turned up uninvited at her home, hospital appointment, and park; photographed her with another man and sent threatening emails about him; banged on her patio doors and swore at a neighbour. After arrest on April 21, 2025, he breached bail by making 31 calls and following her on social media. The victim reported severe impact on her daily life, including selling her car, changing locks, and considering moving. The relationship was on-off since October 2021, with controlling behaviour throughout.

Pleaded guilty. Recorder David Gordon noted use of surveillance technology over a prolonged period. Defence highlighted autism, fixation, and no violence or threats of violence. Ten-year restraining order imposed.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Steven Gill

Conveying drugs into prison

January 21, 2026

Sentence: 12 months imprisonment

On December 31, 2024, Steven Gill, an inmate at HMP Northumberland, received a package containing 44.2g of cannabis and 52 tablets of Class C drugs from his partner during a visit. CCTV captured the exchange as they hugged, and officers noticed suspicious movement when Gill hid the package in his pants. He was immediately taken away and searched.

Admitted conveying drugs into prison. Has 105 previous convictions, including 4 years in 2024 for attempted robbery. Expressed remorse and was under pressure from others.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Tracey Connolly

Conveying drugs into prison

January 21, 2026

Sentence: 11 weeks imprisonment suspended for 2 years

On December 31, 2024, Tracey Connolly visited her partner Steven Gill at HMP Northumberland and passed him a package of 44.2g of cannabis and 52 tablets of Class C drugs during a hug, as captured on CCTV. She claimed she was coerced by threats to her partner and family after he was beaten in prison, having previously refused and received further threats. The act was done in fear and she is ashamed.

Admitted conveying drugs into prison. No previous convictions. Acted out of fear due to threats after her partner was beaten in prison. Judge noted she presents no risk of harm and has strong personal mitigation including medical issues and caring responsibilities.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Lewis Charlton

Dangerous driving

January 20, 2026

Sentence: 12 months suspended for 2 years with 180 hours unpaid work, £4,000 compensation and 2 year driving ban

On March 1, 2025, around 11pm, Lewis Charlton, a 22-year-old uninsured learner driver with only a provisional licence, took his friend's white Audi for a spin in an act of stupidity. He lost control at high speed approaching a T-junction on Edgefield Road in Fawdon, Newcastle, smashing into Rayan's Barbershop and causing £7,000 in damage. The car ended up halfway inside the closed shop, which was out of action for two weeks, losing earnings. The owner had no insurance and paid for repairs himself. Charlton fled the scene but was identified via his phone contacting emergency services and DNA at the scene. The car had been seen earlier outside Kenton Social Club. He has 15 prior convictions, including careless driving and taking without consent, and six points on his provisional licence.

Pleaded guilty. Recorder Bryan Cox KC noted poor motoring record and seriousness of offence but gave one last chance. Defendant expressed remorse and was not drunk. Training to work on wind turbines.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Freddy Smith

Domestic violence offences

January 19, 2026

Sentence: 6 years imprisonment with extended licence of 3 years

Freddy Smith, also known as Campbell, of East Lea, Winlaton, Gateshead, subjected his pregnant partner to a campaign of violence and humiliation between 2021 and 2022. Attacks included throwing a mug causing a wound in December 2021, stabbing her lower leg and foot with a sword around New Year 2022 leaving scars, smashing a glass bottle on her finger in March 2022, cutting her thigh with a razor blade while she showered leaving a deep wound with visible fat and scarring, forcing her to go outside naked in the cold and dark and write humiliating statements, hitting her head with a metal pole causing a cracked scalp and scar, and in July 2022 choking her, striking her legs with a metal pole or baseball bat, and punching her about 25 times causing a black eye and bruises. He exhibited controlling behaviour by restricting her phone use and mirror access. The victim suffered severe physical and emotional trauma, including a breakdown and hospitalisation.

Pleaded guilty to wounding with intent, wounding, four counts of assault occasioning actual bodily harm, strangulation and controlling or coercive behaviour. Judge Tim Gittins imposed a restraining order. Defendant has one previous conviction for assaulting his mother. Mental health issues including autism noted by defence.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Aaron Day

Intentional strangulation and criminal damage

January 18, 2026

Sentence: 12-month prison sentence suspended for 2 years, £500 compensation, £85 costs, £187 victim surcharge, 2-year restraining order

Aaron Day, aged 35, of Coach Lane in Hazelrigg, strangled his girlfriend by squeezing her neck for about five seconds on February 2, 2025, while she was lying on her bed in her Newcastle home, causing bruising. The relationship had been ongoing for around 18 months but was turning sour. Four months later, after the relationship ended, Day attended the victim's home and hurled a spade through her living room window, witnessed by neighbours. He was arrested following the criminal damage incident.

Pleaded guilty to intentional strangulation and criminal damage. Has prior convictions including assault occasioning actual bodily harm in 2022 and another restraining order in 2016. Expressed genuine remorse and has caring responsibilities for a disabled friend.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Michael Dent

Unlawful wounding

January 18, 2026

Sentence: 18 months suspended for 18 months with a two year restraining order

Michael Dent, 46, of Coverdale, Gateshead, was at his girlfriend's house in July 2021 when the victim and his partner, who lived in a neighbouring property, were visiting. They were drinking in the garden and angry words were exchanged during a social gathering. The couple went home, and later that night Dent attended their home and confronted the man. In the course of the confrontation, Dent picked up a stone and struck the victim once above the right eye in a 'shot put motion', causing a deep laceration that left a permanent scar.

Pleaded guilty to unlawful wounding. Has eight previous convictions. Apologised to the victim through his defence counsel.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Tanya Rodenby

Breach of community order

January 18, 2026

Sentence: £50 fine

Tanya Rodenby, 20, of Stocksfield Avenue in Fenham, was subject to a community order imposed in April 2025 requiring 50 hours of unpaid work after being abusive to street rangers and fire brigade staff. She failed to attend appointments on October 27 and November 10, 2025, despite offers of transport from the Probation Service, citing embarrassment. She was summonsed for breaching the order and appeared in court.

Breached community order by failing to attend unpaid work appointments on October 27 and November 10, 2025, due to embarrassment. Unpaid work removed and replaced with fine, considering mental health difficulties. Pleaded guilty.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Paris Griffiths

Assault

January 16, 2026

Sentence: jailed

Paris Griffiths and Alexander Reeves stabbed a man, subjected him to a 'sickening' assault, and poured boiling water on him, leaving the victim in intensive care.

Left the victim in intensive care following a shocking attack involving stabbing, assault, and pouring boiling water.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Peter Mcaskill

Making indecent images of children

January 16, 2026

Sentence: 5 years imprisonment

Peter McAskill, 41, of West End Road, Berwick, used pseudonyms online to trick children into believing he was their age, encouraging them to send sexually explicit pictures. He was arrested in August 2023 and made subject to a Sexual Risk Order after his offending was found to centre around young children. In October 2025, he was charged with making indecent images of children, possession of extreme pornography, and possessing a prohibited image of a child. Digital forensics disproved his denials during questioning.

Pleaded guilty to all charges. Made to sign the Sex Offenders’ Register for life and subject to a lifelong Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO). Breached previous Sexual Risk Order (SRO).

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Alexander Reeves

Assault

January 16, 2026

Sentence: jailed

Paris Griffiths and Alexander Reeves stabbed a man, subjected him to a 'sickening' assault, and poured boiling water on him, leaving the victim in intensive care.

Left the victim in intensive care following a shocking attack involving stabbing, assault, and pouring boiling water.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Jamie Gibson

Arranging or facilitating sexual assault of a child under 13

January 16, 2026

Sentence: 2 years suspended for 2 years with 150 hours unpaid work and programme requirements

Jamie Gibson, 28, of Neville Court, Sulgrave, Washington, contacted an undercover police profile on Telegram posing as an eight-year-old child. He made payments of $5 and $10 to view what he believed were 'cam shows' of young girls being sexually abused, expressing interest in children as young as 12 and multiple children. Police raid found 13 indecent images of children aged 5 to 15 on his devices. He claimed curiosity from legal pornography links and fatigue from night shifts.

No previous convictions. Judge Gavin Doig imposed the sentence to protect children, noting Gibson's motivation to change. Subject to a sexual harm prevention order for 10 years.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Robert Ferry

Attempting to pervert the course of justice

January 15, 2026

Sentence: 6 months imprisonment suspended for 12 months, £1,000 costs, 3-month driving ban

A Nissan car registered to Robert Ferry was caught speeding at 38mph in a temporary 30mph limit on the A19 around 5.45am on October 21, 2017. Unable to identify the driver from the camera, Ferry nominated a vulnerable addict who agreed to take blame for motoring offences. The nominee was in Durham Prison at the time, making it impossible for him to drive. The nominee was convicted of failing to provide driver details in August 2018, fined £660, and disqualified. He amassed over £12,000 in fines, serving 89 days in prison for some. Ferry attempted to pervert the course of justice by nominating the imprisoned man.

Pleaded guilty. Judge considered impact on his partner with health problems and his role as carer. Prior convictions for benefit fraud but none since 2006. Remorseful and ashamed.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Lisa Taylor

Arson being reckless as to whether life was endangered

January 15, 2026

Sentence: 28 months imprisonment

On May 15, 2025, around 6pm, Lisa Taylor, of Holly Avenue, Dunston, Gateshead, set fire to bedding in the rear bedroom of her downstairs flat using a naked flame. She had made previous threats to set the property alight and attempted to ignite bedding the day before. The fire caused extensive damage and smoke penetrated the upstairs flat, endangering multiple occupants including those in the adjacent dwelling. No one was significantly harmed.

Pleaded guilty to arson being reckless as to whether life was endangered. Judge Tim Gittins noted it was a cry for help but caused substantial risk to others. Defence cited decline in mental health and traumatic early life.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Mark Hardy

Strangulation

January 15, 2026

Sentence: 3 years and 2 months imprisonment

Mark Hardy, enraged after seeing a text on his partner's phone, punched her in the face multiple times, strangled her repeatedly until her eyes bulged and she passed out, spat in her face, dragged her to a barn on her Northumberland farm home, smashed her phone with an axe while threatening to kill her. The incident occurred at the victim's home where her two children were present but did not witness it. She hid her daughter's phone and called emergency services, during which Hardy was heard making threats. She suffered loose teeth requiring implants, pain in neck and jaw, and ongoing fear impacting her work as a branding photographer.

Pleaded guilty to strangulation, assault and criminal damage. Given a 15 year restraining order. Judge Tom Moran noted lack of remorse and serious risk to partners. Defence mentioned signing up to a perpetrators course and recent employment with anxiety and depression.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Nicola Jewers

Benefit Fraud

January 14, 2026

Sentence: 3 years imprisonment

Nicola Jewers, 43, of Chapel House Road, Newcastle, committed benefit fraud over eight years from 2016 to 2024 by failing to declare that her partner was living with her. She received overpayments of £64,294 in Employment Support Allowance, £11,500 in Housing Benefit, and £28,874 in Universal Credit, totaling £104,668. The fraud involved not notifying the authorities of a change in circumstances regarding her partner's intermittent living situation and work away from home.

Pleaded guilty to three benefit fraud charges. Previous conviction in 2010 for failing to notify change in circumstances, resulting in conditional discharge. Recorder Geoffrey Pritchard KC noted the offences occurred over an extended period due to dishonesty. Defence highlighted remorse, shame, efforts to repay £100 per month, and three dependent children.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Jai Milligan

Robbery

January 14, 2026

Sentence: 73.5 months imprisonment with 12 months extended licence

On March 29, 2025, Jai Milligan, 43, of Cambo Place, North Shields, and Candice Tote tricked their way into the home of an 85-year-old man in Walker, Newcastle, by claiming 'Rita sent me'. After entering, they assaulted him when he demanded they leave. Milligan punched the victim to the side of the head, knocking him to the ground, and stole his wallet containing £150 cash and a bank card, which was used to buy £10 worth of items at a nearby shop. The victim suffered swelling, a laceration, and was hospitalized for 12 days. He has since died of unrelated causes.

Pleaded guilty to robbery. Judge noted he poses a significant risk of causing serious harm. Has 73 previous convictions including robbery and aggravated burglary. Motivated by illicit substances; expressed remorse.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Gary Tiffin

Assault occasioning actual bodily harm, dangerous driving and criminal damage

January 14, 2026

Sentence: 10 months imprisonment suspended for 18 months, 100 hours unpaid work, mental health treatment requirement, £2,500 compensation, 18 months driving ban

On May 12, 2025, Gary Tiffin, a 34-year-old former taxi driver from Colman Avenue, South Shields, dangerously undertook the victim multiple times on John Reid Road in South Shields. He braked suddenly in front of the victim, causing a collision. Tiffin then approached the victim's car, repeatedly punched him in the head through the window, opened the door, put him in a headlock, and tried to bite him on the head and leg. He entered the car, attempted to remove the dash cam causing damage to the rear view mirror, and threw the ignition keys down the road. The victim suffered minor injuries to his lower lip and hands, with blood on his face and leg. The victim reported feeling shaken and fearful for his life.

Pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm, dangerous driving and criminal damage. Has 12 previous convictions including assault and drug driving. Judge Robert Adams noted the incident was a road rage attack on the anniversary of his mother's death, aggravated by being in public. Defence cited traumatic childhood, mental health issues and remorse.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Candice Tote

Common assault and fraud

January 14, 2026

Sentence: 21 months imprisonment

On March 29, 2025, Candice Tote, 48, of no fixed address, along with Jai Milligan, tricked their way into the home of an 85-year-old man in Walker, Newcastle, by claiming 'Rita sent me'. Tote pushed past the victim upon entry, smoked in his home, and punched him when he reached for his phone to call the police. The assault left the victim on the floor injured, and they stole his wallet containing £150 cash and a bank card, which was used fraudulently to buy £10 worth of items at a nearby shop. The victim was hospitalized for 12 days with swelling and a laceration. He has since died of unrelated causes.

Admitted common assault and fraud; in breach of suspended sentence for affray. Has 103 previous convictions. Suffered PTSD and had been let down by authorities; served 8 months on remand.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Neon Patterson

Conspiracy to supply cannabis

January 13, 2026

Sentence: 2 years imprisonment suspended for 2 years, 150 hours unpaid work

In February 2021, Northumbria Police raided the home of Neon Patterson and Kelsey Gillespie in Kenton, Newcastle, uncovering a sophisticated cannabis dealing operation. Items seized included labels for 'Cream Dog NE3', pre-rolled cannabis joints, over £7,000 in cash, 250 individually wrapped cannabis shatter-infused sweets, two cannabis-infused cakes, and evidence of selling cannabis-infused popcorn and pizza. Phone evidence from Instagram and Snapchat accounts 'Cream Dog' and 'Baked Babe Edibles' confirmed the dealing activities. The total value of seized drugs was estimated at £17,000.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply cannabis. Judge noted unconscionable delays by police and CPS, none the fault of defendants. Operation was a domestic two-person setup to provide for family during pandemic.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Romeo Zani

Entering the UK in breach of a deportation order

January 13, 2026

Sentence: 2 years imprisonment

Romeo Zani, an Albanian national with no fixed address, was found hiding in an unaccompanied trailer destined for a factory in Sunderland in December 2025, after illegally entering the UK in breach of an indefinite deportation order imposed in 2019. This followed multiple prior illegal entries, including in 2017, 2018, 2021, and April 2025 via a yacht in Falmouth. He has a history of arrests, voluntary departures, and a previous 20-month sentence in December 2018 at Bristol Crown Court for possessing identity documents with intent, conspiracy to possess drugs, and facilitating acquisition of criminal property.

Pleaded guilty to entering the UK in breach of a deportation order. Recorder Nicholas Worsley KC noted this as a blatant attempt to flout deportation, marking the fifth removal from the UK. The indefinite deportation order from 2019 remains in force. Defence stated he is anxious to return to Albania despite safety concerns and has family ties in the UK.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Kelsey Gillespie

Conspiracy to supply cannabis

January 13, 2026

Sentence: 2 years imprisonment suspended for 2 years, 100 hours unpaid work, alcohol treatment order

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply cannabis. Judge noted unconscionable delays by police and CPS, none the fault of defendants. Gillespie had a long-term cannabis addiction.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Thomas Dodds

Attempted Rape

January 13, 2026

Sentence: 63 months imprisonment with extended licence of 2 years

In the early hours around 4am, Thomas Dodds, wearing a Newcastle United top, stalked a female stranger for approximately half a mile across Newcastle city centre, following her from near Central Station along Stowell Street and onto the High Level Bridge as she walked home alone after a night out. He attacked her from behind at the Gateshead end of the bridge, pulling her to the ground and attempting to rape her by trying to remove her clothing. The victim fought back courageously by putting her fingers in his mouth and striking his head against the ground, preventing the full offence. The struggle lasted four to five minutes before Dodds gave up and walked away. CCTV footage captured the stalking, and his DNA was found under the victim's fingernails and on her clothing. He was identified after going to hospital and initially denied involvement.

Pleaded guilty. No previous convictions. Must sign sex offenders register indefinitely and given indefinite restraining order. Judge noted the persistent and prolonged nature of the attack.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Kevin Cruickshanks

Attempted wounding with intent

January 12, 2026

Sentence: 5 years imprisonment

On a morning in April 2025, Kevin Cruickshanks drove erratically and dangerously towards his son in South Shields while the son was out buying milk, forcing him to jump out of the way. Cruickshanks exited the car, grabbed his son, pressed thumbs into his eyeballs, and ordered his dog to attack, though the dog fled. He followed his son back to the house and lunged at him with an axe aimed at his face, but the son shut the door in time. Cruickshanks then struck the door three to four times, shattering the glass onto the son.

Admitted possessing a bladed article and causing criminal damage; convicted by jury of attempted wounding with intent. Issued 10-year restraining order to protect son. Has 111 prior offences.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Connor Kane

Theft and breaching Criminal Behaviour Order

January 12, 2026

Sentence: 9 months imprisonment

Connor Kane, a 28-year-old serial thief of no fixed abode, was previously given a two-year Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) banning him from certain streets and premises in the Whickham area of Gateshead. He repeatedly breached the order throughout December by entering stores he was banned from and actively evaded arrest. He was arrested at the beginning of December.

Breached a two-year Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) by entering banned stores and evading arrest. Pleaded guilty to theft and breaching the CBO.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Michael Chiedozie

Possessing cannabis, cocaine and MDMA with intent to supply

January 10, 2026

Sentence: Sentence deferred for 6 months

Michael Chiedozie's offending came to light after police spotted drug dealing around 9pm on September 18, 2022. They stopped a man leaving a car and found two bags of cannabis. In the car, police found cannabis and two MDMA tablets, along with mobile phones containing messages indicating dealing. Officers then searched his address at Kyle Close, Newcastle, where they found 2.5 kilos of cannabis, 22g of cocaine, 230 MDMA tablets, and £935 in cash. He started dealing after getting into debt from self-medicating with cannabis for mental health issues.

Given chance to avoid prison due to significant changes in personal circumstances, including NHS prescription for medicinal cannabis for ADHD and anxiety. Pleaded guilty. Judge Caroline Goodwin noted he would have no complaint if sentenced to custody today.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Lee Scott

Assaulting a child by penetration

January 9, 2026

Sentence: 6.5 years imprisonment

Lee Scott, aged 50 and of no fixed address, admitted sexually abusing two young girls in separate attacks. He subjected one victim to serious sexual assaults and asked the other to sit on his knee, which she refused, before rubbing her leg and asking for a kiss. He also tried to take advantage of the second victim by giving her alcohol and asking her to kiss him. The offences occurred when the victims were young and vulnerable, causing lasting harm including panic attacks, fear, shame, and sleep issues. Scott initially denied wrongdoing but later pleaded guilty. He was a respected secretary of the Northumberland Football League, though the offences were unrelated to his role.

Pleaded guilty to two counts of assaulting a child by penetration and one count of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity. Must sign the sex offenders register for life, subject to a sexual harm prevention order indefinitely, and given a restraining order. Judge noted he targeted vulnerable victims, displayed poor control when drinking, and had a pre-occupation with sexual interest in children.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Andreas Michael

Assault occasioning actual bodily harm

January 9, 2026

Sentence: 45 months imprisonment

Andreas Michael, 50, of Stainton Drive, Felling, Gateshead, subjected his partner to a vicious attack while wild camping in Watergate Forest Park, Gateshead, on July 24, 2025. He pinned her to the ground and repeatedly punched her to the face, causing swelling, bloodiness, and a significant laceration near one eye. Concerns arose about possible broken eye socket and jaw. A member of the public intervened after hearing her screams, striking Michael to stop the assault. The victim fled and was taken to hospital but did not cooperate with prosecution.

Pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Breached a two-year suspended sentence for burglary. Has a lengthy criminal record including offences of violence. Suffers from mental health difficulties.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Caitlin Simpson

Wounding with intent

January 9, 2026

Sentence: 4 years imprisonment with extended licence of 2 years

On July 29, 2025, around midnight in Gateshead, Caitlin Simpson slashed a man's face with a Stanley knife-type blade while accusing him of calling her brother a 'nonce', following a discussion about fake tan. The victim suffered a 6-8 inch gaping wound to his cheek cutting into his mouth requiring stitches, and a 2-inch cut to his palm. In a separate incident in July 2024 in Sunderland, Simpson slapped a takeaway worker, called him a racist name after he reclaimed drinks she tried to take without permission, and later assaulted a police officer by grabbing his thigh and digging in her nails. She was homeless at the time of the racist attack.

Pleaded guilty to wounding with intent, possessing an offensive weapon, racially aggravated common assault, assaulting an emergency worker and possessing cannabis. Has 74 previous convictions. Mental health and drug problems; on methadone. Remorseful for over-reaction to alleged sexual advances in slashing incident. Mortified by racist assault on kind takeaway worker.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

David Wilson

Rape

January 9, 2026

Sentence: 10 years imprisonment

David Wilson, 49, of Garth Farm Road, Winlaton, Gateshead, raped a woman twice during a shocking attack, ignoring her desperate pleas to stop. The victim was left traumatised, scared, feeling so dirty she couldn't touch her own skin and washed herself with Dettol to feel clean again. The assault greatly affected her life, leaving her ashamed.

Found guilty by jury after trial. Recorder Mark Giuliani described the victim's impact statement as 'chilling'. Wilson has a record for violence.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

David Coote

Making indecent image of child

January 9, 2026

Sentence: sentenced after admitting to making indecent image of child

Former Premier League referee admitted to making an indecent image of a child.

Bryan Crompton

Shop theft

January 8, 2026

Sentence: absolute discharge

On September 18, 2025, Bryan Crompton, aged 32, from Adams Terrace in Consett, County Durham, entered JD Sports on Northumberland Street in Newcastle city centre. While intoxicated after drinking with friends all day, he placed two right-footed Nike Air Max 90 trainers, worth £135, into a bag and attempted to leave the store. He triggered the security alarms at the exit and was detained by staff until police arrived. The trainers were recovered undamaged.

Pleaded guilty to shop theft. Solicitor described it as one of the most unsophisticated offences. No costs ordered. Had four prior offences, last in 2010.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Adreol Mena

Producing cannabis

January 8, 2026

Sentence: 6 months imprisonment

On August 21, 2025, police raided a house on Eastgate, Choppington, Northumberland, and discovered a cannabis farm with 67 plants in three rooms, capable of producing up to 5.3 kilos of cannabis worth £16,800. Adreol Mena was present and admitted he was being paid £70 a day to work in the farm.

Pleaded guilty to producing cannabis. Judge noted that the production of cannabis causes misery to society. Due to time spent on remand, will either be transferred to immigration or released on post sentence supervision.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Robbie Bowman

Being concerned in the supply of Class A drugs

January 8, 2026

Sentence: 2 years imprisonment, suspended for 2 years

Robbie Bowman, 29, of Valley View, Lemington, was involved in supplying 11 kilos of cocaine, valued at over £385,000, across the North East between March and June 2020. The group used Encrochat encrypted messaging to hide their activities. Bowman acted as a courier, with the operation uncovered during Operation Venetic. He was arrested in April 2021 and charged in March 2026.

Stephen Cherry

Conspiracy to supply Class A drugs

January 8, 2026

Sentence: 9 years imprisonment

Stephen Cherry, 40, of Troutdale Place, Longbenton, conspired with others to supply 11 kilos of cocaine, valued at over £385,000, across the North East between March and June 2020. The group used Encrochat encrypted messaging to hide their activities. Cherry organised deliveries, with the operation uncovered during Operation Venetic. He was arrested in April 2021 and charged in March 2026.

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