Latest
Philip Smith|Murder|Leicester Crown CourtDaniel Flatters|Sexual activity with a child|Liverpool Crown CourtPhillip Fraczek|Murder|Snaresbrook Crown CourtAdam Hall|Rape and causing grievous bodily harm|Newcastle Crown CourtHenry Hathaway|Conspiracy to commit robbery, grievous bodily harm, and criminal damage|Bristol Crown CourtDanius Melgailis|Conspiracy to commit robbery, grievous bodily harm, and criminal damage|Bristol Crown CourtMohammed Ahmed|Conspiracy to commit robbery, grievous bodily harm, and criminal damage|Bristol Crown CourtAlfie Cook|Causing death by dangerous driving|Bristol Crown CourtPhilip Smith|Murder|Leicester Crown CourtDaniel Flatters|Sexual activity with a child|Liverpool Crown CourtPhillip Fraczek|Murder|Snaresbrook Crown CourtAdam Hall|Rape and causing grievous bodily harm|Newcastle Crown CourtHenry Hathaway|Conspiracy to commit robbery, grievous bodily harm, and criminal damage|Bristol Crown CourtDanius Melgailis|Conspiracy to commit robbery, grievous bodily harm, and criminal damage|Bristol Crown CourtMohammed Ahmed|Conspiracy to commit robbery, grievous bodily harm, and criminal damage|Bristol Crown CourtAlfie Cook|Causing death by dangerous driving|Bristol Crown Court

Newcastle Crown Court Sentencing Results

Explore 824 verdicts at Newcastle Crown Court (Newcastle upon Tyne). Updated with the latest court outcomes.

Newcastle Crown Court
April 2026 8 cases
Dale Gordon
Threats to kill *
Sentence
4 years and 10 months imprisonment
On November 1, 2025, Dale Gordon, 33, of Red Barns in Newcastle, turned up unannounced at his ex-partner's home armed with a large meat cleaver, despite a restraining order being in place. He strangled her, dragged her by her hair, falsely imprisoned her, threatened to 'chop off' her arm and to harm both if police arrived, amid ongoing unwanted contact via email. The victim called 999 during the attack; Gordon was arrested at the scene.
Admitted two counts of breaching a restraining order, coercive control, false imprisonment, and threats to kill at Newcastle Crown Court on December 15, 2025. Found not guilty of aggravated burglary. Handed a lifetime restraining order. Previously received a suspended prison sentence for stalking on October 30, 2025.
27 Apr 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
Adam Hall
Rape and causing grievous bodily harm *
Sentence
Life imprisonment with a minimum term of 23 years and 42 days
Adam Hall, diagnosed with HIV in 2010, deliberately failed to comply with his medication regime and ignored medical advice. Between November 2016 and May 2023, he had unprotected sex with seven men, transmitting HIV to them, and raped four of them. He targeted young men via electronic devices, lied about his HIV status, and in some instances had sex against their will. Victims discovered their HIV status after testing positive. Evidence included forensic, medical records, and seized devices.
Found guilty after trial of 5 counts of rape, 7 counts of causing grievous bodily harm, 1 count of controlling/coercive behaviour, 1 count of supplying a class B drug (GHB), 1 count of failing to comply with an investigation. Served 323 days on remand. Also sentenced for two breaches of an Interim Sexual Risk Order, three counts of conspiracy to supply Class A and Class B drugs (pleaded guilty June 2025), and being concerned in the supply of Class A drugs (pleaded guilty April 2024).
23 Apr 2026
wired-gov.net
Laura Banks
Drug smuggling *
Sentence
18 months suspended for two years
Laura Banks, 44, from New Malden, London, was stopped by a UK Border Force officer at Newcastle Airport on 30 January 2026 after arriving from Bangkok, Thailand. Fifteen vacuum-sealed packages containing about 1.1kg each of cannabis, totaling more than 16kg of the Class B drug, were found inside her purple suitcase. She initially claimed the bag was not hers and denied knowledge of the contents, but later made admissions.
Admitted a drug smuggling charge. Ordered to work with the probation service to address her offending and complete 150 hours unpaid work.
21 Apr 2026
aol.com
Liam Mchugh
False imprisonment *
Sentence
5 years imprisonment
Liam McHugh, 26, from Osier Court, Stakeford near Ashington, Northumberland, invited a friend and work colleague to live in his flat. After a night of drinking and drugs on 15 June 2025, the victim stole £120 from McHugh to buy more cocaine. McHugh discovered the theft, attacked the man, locked him in the bathroom, and summoned Nathan Beecroft. The pair held the victim prisoner for almost two days, repeatedly waterboarding him at least 20 times over 90 minutes, attacking him with a metal bar, paint stripper, cheese grater, bush cutter, hot tea, and cigarettes, punching and kicking him, shaving his head and eyebrows, and tying him up. The ordeal ended when McHugh's mother contacted police, who found the victim bound in a bedroom.
Admitted false imprisonment. Restraining order banning contact with victim for 10 years.
20 Apr 2026
bbc.co.uk
Nathan Beecroft
False imprisonment *
Sentence
4 years 9 months imprisonment
Nathan Beecroft, 37, from Liddle Street, Stakeford near Ashington, Northumberland, joined Liam McHugh in holding a man prisoner for almost two days over a stolen £120. After McHugh locked the victim in the bathroom following the theft on 15 June 2025, Beecroft participated in the torture, alternating between waterboarding the victim at least 20 times over 90 minutes, attacking him with a metal bar, paint stripper, cheese grater, bush cutter, hot tea, and cigarettes, punching and kicking him, shaving his head and eyebrows, and tying him up. They attempted to extort £600 from the victim's family but failed. The ordeal ended when McHugh's mother contacted police, who found the victim bound in a bedroom.
Admitted false imprisonment. Restraining order banning contact with victim for 10 years.
20 Apr 2026
bbc.co.uk
Kieran Phillips
Unlawful wounding *
Sentence
six months suspended for 18 months
In July 2021, Kieran Phillips, then 17, entered his girlfriend's home in Sunderland while she was lying on her bed. He was holding a Rambo-style knife, which he had previously used to throw at items. Despite her request to put it away, he swung it at the bed between her legs, laughing, which terrified her. She moved her legs, and the knife struck the top of her right foot, causing a large cut requiring stitches. Phillips blamed her for moving and threatened to injure the other foot if she told anyone. She initially lied to hospital staff about the injury, claiming it was from garden shears, but reported it to police three years later. The attack has left her unable to compete in gymnastics, affected her coaching work, caused ongoing physical pain and numbness, and deteriorated her mental health.
Pleaded guilty to unlawful wounding. Judge noted the injury was probably accidental but reckless. Defendant had no prior convictions at the time but has since committed multiple offences including possessing an offensive weapon, drugs, battery, and driving offences. Five-year restraining order imposed.
20 Apr 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
Anthony Toward
Rape and sexual assault *
Sentence
14 years imprisonment
Anthony Toward, 37, from Blakelaw in Newcastle, plied a teenage girl with drugs including cocaine and cannabis, and alcohol, to facilitate the offending before raping and sexually assaulting her. The victim has suffered recurring flashbacks, nightmares, panic, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder, stating her life has been destroyed and she feels hatred and disgust towards him.
Denied wrongdoing but was found guilty of rape and sexual assault. Judge Julie Clemitson described the offences as 'heinous' and praised the victim's bravery.
20 Apr 2026
bbc.co.uk
Mark Rickman
Robbery *
Sentence
5 years and 4 months imprisonment with extended licence period of 3 years
Mark Rickman, released on licence in 2023 from a life sentence for rape, was wanted on prison recall when he attacked a 29-year-old jogger on the morning of November 15, 2024, along the River Tyne near Dunston Staiths. The victim noticed him under the King Edward Bridge before he grabbed her wrists, forced her down an embankment, threatened to stab her, and stole her headphones during a three-minute assault. She fought him off. Rickman has a history of violence against women, including an indefinite hospital order in 1987 for molesting and attempting to throttle five women, and a life sentence in 2005 for raping a 20-year-old on Christmas Day 2004 while on leave from hospital.
Pleaded guilty to robbery. Judge noted long-standing history of targeting lone vulnerable women and high risk of sexual offending. Recorder Brian Whitehead presided.
19 Apr 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
March 2026 42 cases
William Flamson
Rape *
Sentence
9 years imprisonment
William Flamson, aged 41, of St Cuthberts Court, Bensham, Gateshead, raped a woman at an address in Gateshead in September 2024. The survivor disclosed the attack to a friend, who reported it to the police. Flamson was arrested shortly after, questioned, released on bail, and later charged with one count of rape. He denied the charge but was found guilty by a jury following a three-day trial in February 2026. The victim described the profound impact on her life, including inability to sleep, nightmares, fear of leaving the house, loss of job, and scrubbing her skin raw due to feeling dirty.
Denied the charges but was found guilty after a three-day trial. Also placed on the Sex Offenders Register for life and given an indefinite restraining order. Acquitted of one count of theft.
30 Mar 2026
express.co.uk
Paul Southern
Voyeurism *
Sentence
four-month prison term
On Thursday 5 February 2026, Paul Southern entered the women’s toilets at Newcastle railway station and remained there for around 40 minutes, waiting for someone to enter. A woman in her 40s entered a cubicle and saw Southern’s head appear beneath the partition. He watched her briefly before she challenged him and fled to alert her partner and British Transport Police officers, who arrested him. CCTV showed him wandering the station prior to the offence.
Born 16 October 1978, of no fixed address. Admitted a charge of voyeurism. Will remain on the sex offenders register for seven years.
26 Mar 2026
dpsimulation.org.uk
Samantha Robinson-Leigh
Arson being reckless as to whether life was endangered *
Sentence
2 years imprisonment
On July 15, 2025, Samantha Robinson-Leigh, 49, started a fire in her room at Westwood Lodge Care home in Elswick, Newcastle, where she lived with 44 other people, by setting her nightie alight in the wardrobe using a lighter. The fire caused extensive damage to the wardrobe and room but was contained. She admitted to police that she did not want to be there and claimed voices in her head told her to do it, though a psychiatrist found this unconvincing. The smoke alarm did not activate, possibly covered by a sock, which she denied. There was a significant risk to others as it occurred in the late evening when people might have been asleep.
Pleaded guilty. No previous convictions but has three cautions for criminal damage and a history of setting fires when unhappy with accommodation. Judge noted she uses fire for her own benefit and warned her against future offenses. Served around eight months on remand.
26 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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.
20 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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.
20 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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.
20 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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.
20 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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.
19 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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.
19 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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.
17 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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.
16 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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.
13 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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.
13 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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.
13 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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.
13 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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.
13 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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.
13 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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.
12 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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
11 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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
11 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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
11 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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.
11 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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
11 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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.
11 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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.
11 Mar 2026
bbc.co.uk
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.
10 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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.
9 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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.
9 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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.
9 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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.
9 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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.
9 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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.
6 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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.
6 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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.
6 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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.
6 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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.
6 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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.
6 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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.
5 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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.
4 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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.
4 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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.
4 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk
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.
1 Mar 2026
chroniclelive.co.uk

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.

All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The presence of a name on this page does not imply guilt, and some listed individuals may have had convictions overturned, sentences reduced, or charges withdrawn after the date of publication.

We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any court, government body, or law enforcement agency. While we endeavour to ensure the accuracy of all information, we accept no liability for any errors, omissions, or consequences arising from the use of this data. If you believe any entry is inaccurate, outdated, or should be removed, please submit a removal request using the icon on the relevant entry or contact us directly.

No sentences found matching your search.

Showing 1-50 of 824 results

Court Image
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 824 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.

Nearby Courts

Newcastle Upon Tyne Magistrates Court

Magistrates Court

Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Newcastle-upon-Tyne

0.0 km away

South Tyneside Magistrates Court

South Tyneside Magistrates Court

Magistrates Court

South Shields

10.8 km away

Sunderland Magistrates Court

Sunderland Magistrates Court

Magistrates Court

Sunderland

15.5 km away

Mid And Se Northumberland Magistrates Court

Magistrates Court

Northumberland

18.1 km away

Peterlee Magistrates Court

Peterlee Magistrates Court

Magistrates Court

Peterlee

29.3 km away

Newton Aycliffe Magistrates Court

Newton Aycliffe Magistrates Court

Magistrates Court

Newton Aycliffe, Newton Aycliffe

38.9 km away

Request Removal

Requesting removal of listing for: