Newcastle Crown Court Sentencing Results

Explore 395 verdicts at Newcastle Crown Court (Newcastle upon Tyne). Updated with the latest court outcomes.

Liam Wilde

Violent disorder

November 4, 2025

Sentence: 20 month prison sentence, suspended for two years; 200 hours unpaid work; 40 rehabilitation days; £187 surcharge

Liam Wilde, 25, of Honister Drive, Sunderland, was involved in the Sunderland riot on August 2, 2024. While drunk in the city centre, he joined the violence in Keel Square, filmed the disorder on his mobile phone, picked up a stone, and threw it with significant force at the police line. The riot involved attacks on police officers, injuries to officers and police dogs, damage and looting of businesses, and racist language. He handed himself in after being identified from circulated images. In interview, he admitted to drinking with a friend, not being aware of the protest initially, regretting his actions, and stated he wouldn't have acted that way if sober.

Pleaded guilty. No previous convictions. Described as a caring and sensitive young man who showed genuine remorse. Involvement out of character due to being drunk and caught up in the moment.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Michael Cogdon

Grievous Bodily Harm

November 3, 2025

Sentence: 32 months imprisonment

On April 20, 2024, Michael Cogdon, 37, of Lichfield Road, Sunderland, subjected his then-partner to a vicious domestic attack while she drove them back from Roker Beach along Wessington Way in Sunderland. He grabbed the steering wheel, causing her to slam the brakes, then punched her in the face, smashed the car windscreen, and grabbed her by the throat, applying pressure. The victim believed she was going to be killed. Cogdon pulled her from the car, continued the assault while calling her abusive names, and left her crying and bloodied on the dual-carriageway. She tried to flag down motorists and was assisted by a passerby. Cogdon fled in her car. The victim suffered a laceration to her nose requiring stitches and deep tissue trauma, and has since moved out of the area.

Pleaded guilty to grievous bodily harm. Has nine previous convictions for 16 offences, including prior assaults on partners. Expressed regret and is addressing alcohol and drug problems through therapy. Indefinite restraining order imposed.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Robert Wilkinson

Attempted sexual communication with a child

October 31, 2025

Sentence: 2 years suspended for 2 years with 200 hours unpaid work

Robert Wilkinson, 68, of Redewood Close, East Denton, Newcastle, communicated sexually with someone who claimed to be a 13-year-old girl in Sweden via Kik, making comments about her age and sending sexual images, describing her as 'the hottest 13-year-old he had ever seen'. Police seized his computer equipment after notification from the National Crime Agency about uploads from his IP address, finding over 100 indecent images of children aged 5-11, including category A images, and extreme pornography involving a woman and a dog. He admitted the offences, stating he was bored and going through a difficult time, denying attraction to children. It could not be established if the 'child' was real or posing.

Pleaded guilty to attempted sexual communication with a child, three offences of making indecent images of children, and possessing extreme pornography. No previous convictions. Must sign the sex offenders register and be subject to a sexual harm prevention order for 10 years. Judge Stephen Earl noted the seriousness of the offending.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Dominic Hewison

Assault

October 30, 2025

Sentence: 19 months imprisonment

On December 24, 2024, Dominic Hewison, 35, of Shakespeare Street, Sunderland, assaulted his sleeping girlfriend in bed by repeatedly striking her over the head with a metal cosh or baton and then strangling her with both hands for around a minute until she feared for her life. The victim suffered bruising and swelling to her face and marks around her neck. Emergency services responded to multiple calls about a violent domestic incident in the early hours, finding the victim outside, crying, distressed, physically injured, and terrified. Armed officers tasered Hewison before arresting him after the victim claimed he had a gun.

Admitted assault. Given a 10-year restraining order to protect the victim. Judge noted he had been drinking, used an offensive weapon (baton), and strangled the victim while she was asleep. Has mental health problems, good work ethic, and is not heavily convicted.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Dane Peace

Violent disorder and burglary

October 29, 2025

Sentence: 2 years and 4 months imprisonment

Dane Peace, a 30-year-old bathroom fitter from Knollside Close, Sunderland, participated in riots in Sunderland city centre on August 2, 2024, while drunk and under the influence of cocaine. He confronted police outside Aldi, threw missiles at them outside The Yard building, kicked and threw metal beer kegs at its ground floor window. He smashed into a NatWest bank using a scaffolding pole and kicks, entering twice to steal two pin pads, with his fingerprints found on the window. He also burgled a vape shop.

Pleaded guilty to violent disorder and two counts of burglary. Remorseful and ashamed, no previous convictions, successful bathroom fitting business, now sober. Involved due to personal grief and excessive alcohol and cocaine consumption.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Peter Nicholson

Assault occasioning actual bodily harm

October 29, 2025

Sentence: 15 months imprisonment

On January 2, 2025, Peter Nicholson, 64, of Alexandra Road, Ashington, assaulted his partner during a drunken argument at their home. After drinking from 3pm and returning home at 11pm, he provoked her by mentioning his ex-partner. When she tried to slap him, he grabbed her wrists, pushed her against the back door causing pain, dragged her to the floor, and repeatedly punched her in the head while screaming that she didn't belong there and it was his house. The assault lasted about two minutes, leaving her covered in blood with injuries including a scarred cut to her forehead, swelling and bruising around her eye, wrist bruising, and bruising to her bottom. She called her daughter who contacted police; Nicholson was restraining her when officers arrived and resisted arrest. The victim suffered lasting impacts including reduced self-esteem, becoming a recluse, loss of trust, and requiring counselling.

Convicted after trial of assault occasioning actual bodily harm and resisting a constable. Recorder Andrew Latimer described him as having 'acted as a bully that night'. Lost 25-year NHS career helping people with learning difficulties and autism.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Site And Field Services Limited

Health and Safety Breach

October 29, 2025

Sentence: £40,000 fine and £6,382 costs

On November 30, 2023, an employee at Site and Field Services Limited in Ashington, Northumberland, became entangled in a horizontal borer while cleaning swarf from the machine, which had been left running. The worker sustained significant injuries to his legs and ankles, multiple broken ribs, a collapsed lung, required skin grafts, and partial amputation of two toes. An HSE investigation found inadequate guarding on the machine, no safe system of work, and lack of effective auditing allowing a removed trip probe to go unnoticed.

Admitted breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. Following previous HSE action on machinery guarding.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Tony Hall

Riot

October 28, 2025

Sentence: 56 months imprisonment

Tony Hall, 31, of Pensher Street, Sunderland, was heavily involved in the Sunderland riot on August 2, 2024, confronting police with a glass bottle which he threw, participating in the burglary of a vape shop, being part of a crowd outside a police hub, throwing a bin and parasol at police, and repeatedly attacking police by throwing three bins and other objects including a plastic chair. On February 2025, at the Old Skool bar on Vine Street, Sunderland, he became aggressive with door staff, used racially abusive language, smashed a beer bottle, knocked off glasses, attempted to stamp on them, encouraged stabbing, produced a gas-powered BB gun, pointed it at staff, hit doors with it, and shouted threats after being asked to leave.

Pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence, possessing cannabis, two counts of racially aggravated harassment, alarm or distress, riot and burglary. Has 11 previous convictions. Thought the riot was a demonstration about British values, ashamed of behaviour which escalated from drunken loutish actions after an incident involving his father and police.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Lewis Stubbs

Violent disorder

October 28, 2025

Sentence: 40 months imprisonment

Lewis Stubbs, 25, of Front Road, Ford Estate, Sunderland, participated in the Sunderland riot on August 2, 2024, throwing a can of alcohol at a police officer's head, burgling a vape shop, being part of a crowd vandalising a police hub, and throwing plastic chairs at police. On February 2025, at the Old Skool bar on Vine Street, Sunderland, he became aggressive with door staff, used racially abusive language, grabbed and desecrated a bouncer's hat, knocked off glasses, produced a knife, and threatened staff after being asked to leave.

Pleaded guilty to two counts of racially aggravated harassment, alarm or distress, two counts of racially aggravated assault by beating, having a bladed article, violent disorder and burglary. Has 19 previous convictions. Work while remanded in custody labelled 'outstanding' by prison staff. Traumatic early childhood with abuse and foster care, leading to alcohol and drug use.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Daniel Lee

Robbery

October 27, 2025

Sentence: 2 years and 9 months imprisonment

Daniel Lee, 38, of Daisy Field Way, Great Park, Newcastle, carried out two handbag snatches in Newcastle city centre. On July 16, 2025, he targeted a woman celebrating her graduation outside Tup Tup Palace at 2.20am on Westgate Road, running into her and stealing a gold bracelet inherited from her grandmother, snapping the handbag handle. On July 18, 2025, at midnight, he snatched a handbag containing £30-40 cash from a woman outside a takeaway on Westgate Road, snapping the straps and ripping her dress. He researched handbag robberies on Google due to financial problems from marriage breakdown and job loss. Identified via police appeal and phone evidence. Both victims reported severe anxiety and fear.

Pleaded guilty to two counts of robbery. Acted out of financial desperation after relationship ended and job loss. Deeply ashamed and sorry. Father of two. One prior conviction for failing to provide a specimen for analysis.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Simon Hudson

Assault by beating and harassment

October 25, 2025

Sentence: 12-month community order and £1,200 compensation

Simon Hudson, aged 41, of Dunlin Close in Ryton, Gateshead, pushed his ex-partner down a full flight of stairs in her North Tyneside home on October 19, 2024, after demanding to look through her phone while drunk. He had taken her mobile, read her messages and apps, and when she followed him to the bathroom asking for it back, he pushed her in the chest, causing her to fall and suffer bruising to her back. Instead of helping, he told her she was fine and tried to pull her up. After the breakup, between December 6 and 12, 2024, he harassed her by bombarding her with messages and calls, repeatedly turning up at her address, and on one occasion, taking a back door key without permission. The victim reported him to police due to fear.

Pleaded guilty to assault by beating and harassment. Also ordered to pay £114 victim surcharge and made subject of a two-year restraining order. The relationship was described as 'toxic'.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Shane Amer

Rioting

October 24, 2025

Sentence: jailed

Shane Amer, of Sunderland, threw missiles at police during a riot outside Aldi in Sunderland.

Shay Henson

Riot and burglary

October 24, 2025

Sentence: 32 months in a young offenders institution

Shay Henson, aged 18 at the time, participated in violent disorder in Sunderland city centre last August. He was caught on camera wearing a balaclava and red jacket, repeatedly throwing missiles, including a plant, at police. He also joined others in forcibly entering and burgling a vape store, stealing vapes, resulting in over £83,000 in losses to the store.

Pleaded guilty to riot and burglary. Judge Edward Bindloss noted the acts brought shame to Sunderland and emphasized deterrence. Defence described actions as mindless, stupid, and wrong, influenced by adrenaline and herd mentality. Concerned for impact on mother.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Susanne Redhead

Theft

October 24, 2025

Sentence: jailed

Susanne Redhead stole £750,000 from her employer Pure Panel Management in Newbiggin Hall over 14 months to fund a gambling habit.

Balasubramaniyan Ravichandran

Sexual assault

October 24, 2025

Sentence: 15 months imprisonment

In April 2025, the victim, intoxicated after drinking at home and at a Newcastle city centre nightclub, left the club alone around 3am. Balasubramaniyan Ravichandran, who had obtained her phone number at the club, followed her from a distance, caught up, grabbed her wrist, and isolated her at a bus stop on New Bridge Street. He subjected her to a sustained sexual assault, including kissing her, putting his hand under her jacket, moving her clothing, attempting to undo her trousers, touching inside her trousers, kissing her chest, and biting her lip when she resisted. He also took her behind a nearby church. The victim repeatedly tried to push him away, told him to stop, and feared for her life due to his mean demeanour. She escaped around 4.15am. CCTV captured much of the incident. Ravichandran, a 26-year-old Indian national studying logistics in the UK and living in Felling, Gateshead, was arrested after the victim reported the attack.

Pleaded guilty to sexual assault. No previous convictions. Ordered to sign the sex offenders register for 10 years and given a 3-year restraining order. Expected to be released soon due to over 5 months remanded in custody.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Brenda Heslop

Murder

October 24, 2025

Sentence: life imprisonment with a minimum term of 20 years

Brenda Heslop stabbed her 68-year-old neighbour John Hardy to death outside his home on Sceptre Place in Elswick, Newcastle, on November 2024. She had loaned him £40 and demanded £60 back, confronting him with a knife after waiting for him. CCTV audio captured her demanding money aggressively before stabbing him in the chest, causing a fatal wound through his lung and damaging vertebrae, plus two other injuries. John, known as 'Limpy John', was a vulnerable, kind pensioner with physical disabilities who had just withdrawn £50. No money was found on him after the attack, and Heslop took it. She had previously threatened to stab him and was arrested shortly after, admitting she stabbed him to 'give him what for' but didn't intend to kill. The attack was described as heinous, with Heslop stalking him like a predator.

Pleaded guilty to murder. Judge Bindloss found the motivation was misplaced anger and frustration, not for gain. She intended to cause really serious harm but not to kill. Has paranoid schizophrenia since age 17, but no psychosis at the time. Time on remand accounted for, must serve at least 19 years and 22 days before possible release.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Chloe Kairton

Noise Nuisance

October 24, 2025

Sentence: £1,000 fine

Chloe Kairton, of Liddles Street in Northumberland, was taken to court by the council for causing persistent noise disturbances.

Mohammed Umar Khan

Murder

October 23, 2025

Sentence: Minimum of 16 years imprisonment

Mohammed Umar Khan, a 15-year-old boy, took a hunting knife to school and stabbed a fellow pupil to death in front of other pupils during a lunch break.

Can now be named following judge's ruling; stabbed fellow pupil to death during school lunch break

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Evan Forde

Dangerous driving

October 23, 2025

Sentence: Jailed

Evan Forde, 32, was driving a Mercedes at 140mph on Christmas Day when he ploughed into a BMW on New Year's Day in 2023, causing a crash but failing to assist the victim's family.

James Gamble

Attempted burglary

October 23, 2025

Sentence: 18 months imprisonment

On the morning of August 17, 2025, James Gamble, a 52-year-old crack addict from Ellesmere Road, Benwell, Newcastle, attempted to break into the Newcastle United Football Club shop in the city centre using the base of a parasol and a piece of wood. He caused £2,000 of damage to the front window but failed to gain entry. The incident was captured on CCTV, leading to his easy identification by police. He was stopped and searched on Glebe Street, Benwell, where three wraps of crack cocaine were found. Gamble has a history of 235 previous convictions and was in breach of a community order and suspended sentence.

Pleaded guilty to attempted burglary, possession of three wraps of crack cocaine, breach of community order and suspended sentence. Has 235 previous convictions. Judge noted extremely difficult personal circumstances and futile attempts to address addiction.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Sadie Lauren Metcalfe

Aggressive behaviour

October 23, 2025

Sentence: Banned from seaside town

Sadie Lauren Metcalfe was involved in aggressive behaviour in a seaside town, shouting, swearing and intimidating passersby, leading to her being banned from the area.

Banned after aggressive behaviour including shouting, swearing and intimidating passersby

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Philip Longstaff

Inflicting Grievous Bodily Harm

October 22, 2025

Sentence: 18 months imprisonment suspended for 2 years with 90-day alcohol abstinence monitoring requirement

On May 3, 2025, at The Coble pub in Newbiggin-by-the-Sea, Northumberland, during a wake for a young man who died prematurely, Philip Longstaff, 34, of Seacrest Road, Newbiggin-by-the-Sea, had an exchange with victim Ronnie Potts at the bar. Longstaff punched Potts in the face with his left hand and struck him with a glass held in his right hand, causing the glass to break on impact. This resulted in a horrific penetrating wound to Potts' left eye, a detached retina, and interocular dislocation, requiring two types of surgery. The incident occurred just before 9.45pm, and CCTV footage captured the assault. Longstaff claimed he acted in excessive self-defence, believing he was about to be attacked.

Pleaded guilty to inflicting GBH on the basis of excessive self-defence and unawareness of holding the glass. Remanded in custody for several months, equivalent to 15 months served. Judge warned that any further offences within 2 years would result in imprisonment. Defendant in good employment and supported by family.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Anthony Layton

Possessing a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence

October 22, 2025

Sentence: 16 months suspended for 18 months with a mental health treatment requirement and an alcohol abstinence monitoring requirement for 90 days

On June 21, 2025, at around 10.30pm, ambulance workers responded to a call at Rutland Street, Hetton-le-Hole, where Anthony Layton's partner had injured her finger in a fall. While treating her, Layton, who was agitated and intoxicated, complained about neighbours poisoning his dog. He stated he had purchased a gun to shoot rats but threatened to shoot his neighbours, then produced a .22 air rifle from a fabric case, holding it with the barrel pointing down. The workers feared for their lives and left, alerting police. Layton resisted initially but threw the rifle out and was tasered and arrested.

Pleaded guilty. Has 82 previous convictions including for robbery and burglary. Judge noted no direct threat was made to the ambulance worker. Defendant sends sincere apologies to the victim.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Craig Martin

Conspiracy to supply cocaine

October 21, 2025

Sentence: 9 years and 7 months imprisonment

Craig Martin, 47, of Dorcas Avenue, Benwell, Newcastle, was involved in a conspiracy to supply 172 kilos of high purity cocaine worth £68m, flooding the North East with the drug between October 2019 and June 2020. He transported 100 kilos of cocaine hidden in 12 gas bottles, each containing 12-16 kilos, across the country to wholesalers. The gang used vehicles with hidden compartments to move drugs and cash, amassing over £8m in cash movements. Martin was caught after the EncroChat messaging system was infiltrated. He was ill and hospitalized for part of the period, so not responsible for all transports. The conspiracy put millions of doses onto the streets.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply cocaine. No previous convictions. Involved due to financial troubles from gambling. Paid £26,000 wage for transporting drugs. Judge noted he was a trusted courier given instructions mainly by Colin Somerville and used a specially adapted vehicle.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Callum Kilgallon

Assault occasioning actual bodily harm

October 20, 2025

Sentence: 12-month community order with 90-day Alcohol Abstinence Monitoring Requirement and £200 compensation

On September 14, 2024, outside Rusty's Bar in Newcastle city centre, Callum Kilgallon, aged 22, from Southway in East Denton, intervened in an argument between the victim and his mother, unaware she had initiated it with verbal abuse and a homophobic slur. While drunk, he punched the victim once in the face, causing a chipped tooth, bleeding gums, and blood pouring from the mouth. The victim flagged down police, leading to Kilgallon's arrest.

Pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm. No prior convictions. Remorseful and ashamed. Judge noted he lost his temper and used a homophobic insult.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Mohammed Sarfaraz

GBH with intent

October 20, 2025

Sentence: 9 years imprisonment

On January 17, 2025, police attended the home of Mohammed Sarfaraz's parents in Gosforth, Newcastle, to arrest him. He was found in the kitchen holding a smoking frying pan with hot oil. When PC Christopher Bain and another officer entered with tasers drawn, Sarfaraz deliberately swung the hot oil at them, causing agonising burns to PC Bain's face and chest, and minor burns to the colleague. Sarfaraz barricaded himself in the garage before being tasered and arrested. In a separate incident on May 28, 2024, outside his wife's home in Kenton, Newcastle, he assaulted an officer by kicking out during an arrest related to a domestic dispute over access to his children.

Found guilty of GBH with intent, attempted GBH with intent, affray and assaulting a police officer. Tried to blackmail the judge by threatening suicide if given a long sentence. No similar prior convictions. Does not accept the jury's verdicts.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Mark Simpson

Voyeurism and possession of indecent images of children

October 20, 2025

Sentence: 38 months imprisonment

Mark Simpson recorded footage and took photos of victims undressing in changing rooms at Butlin's Skegness holiday resort, with 30 incidents there and 4 at another location, spanning from 2017 to 2023. He was caught on April 15, 2023, after a man reported his wife being spied on. His phone contained multiple voyeurism videos, indecent images of children, and a hidden folder with an app showing chat logs exchanging prohibited images. Formerly of Bellshill Close, Hadrian Park in Wallsend, aged 51.

Pleaded guilty to all 15 charges. Investigation involved examination of multiple devices by Lincolnshire Police's Paedophile Online Investigation Team.

Sources: lincolnshirelive.co.uk

Samantha Lane

Assault with a knife

October 20, 2025

Sentence: No prison sentence

Samantha Lane, of Throckley, stabbed a friend but walked free after claiming she believed he was going to sexually assault her. The incident occurred in Newcastle, leading to her guilty plea at court.

Pleaded guilty on the basis she had a genuine but incorrect belief her victim was going to sexually assault her

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Lee Dickinson

Shoplifting

October 19, 2025

Sentence: 3 year Criminal Behaviour Order

Lee Dickinson, a 34-year-old serial shoplifter with a lengthy criminal record, particularly over the last 24 months, has repeatedly targeted shops in Whitley Bay and Cullercoats for stealing alcohol. Last month, he stole £15-worth of wine from Sainsbury's on Park Avenue, Whitley Bay; £57.20-worth of wine from the Co-op on Earsdon Road, Whitley Bay; and £15-worth of wine from the Co-op on Marine Avenue, Whitley Bay. Just last week, he entered Sainsbury's on Heaton Road, took a bottle of wine, and assaulted a staff member who tried to stop him from leaving. Prosecutors applied for the order to curb his dishonest behaviour and provide respite for affected shops.

Issued due to extensive recent criminal convictions, particularly shoplifting. Must leave retail premises when asked. Breach carries maximum 5 years imprisonment. Terms agreed upon.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Chantelle Hutchinson

Shop theft

October 18, 2025

Sentence: 20-week prison sentence, suspended for 12 months

Chantelle Hutchinson, 36, from Deepdale Crescent in Cowgate, Newcastle, stole goods worth in excess of £1,000 from 12 shops including TK Maxx, Aldi and Poundland over the past month to fund her drug habit. The thefts were part of a prolific spree amid deteriorating mental health following the removal of her children from her care.

Pleaded guilty to 12 counts of shop theft. Has 20 prior offences and was in breach of a community order. Offending linked to drug habit to cope with mental health issues after children placed with grandparents.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Andrew Larkin

Failing to comply with a section 35 direction

October 18, 2025

Sentence: six-month conditional discharge

On August 22, 2025, Andrew Larkin was reported for taking his clothes off at Costa in Newcastle city centre. He was using his underwear to clean tables and pestering the public. Police issued a Section 35 direction to disperse from the Newcastle parking meter zone, but he soon after tried to steal money from street singers and start fights. He is a prolific offender with a long criminal record.

Pleaded guilty to failing to comply with a section 35 direction. Currently recalled to prison and serving a sentence for assault. Mental health had deteriorated at the time but now taking correct medication.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

William Laws

Shop theft

October 18, 2025

Sentence: 20-week prison sentence, suspended for 12 months

William Laws, 40, from Deepdale Crescent in Cowgate, Newcastle, stole goods worth in excess of £1,000 from six shops including TK Maxx, Aldi and Poundland over the past month to fund his drug habit. The thefts were part of a prolific spree amid deteriorating mental health following the removal of his children from his care.

Admitted six counts of shop theft. Has 32 prior offences. Had not offended since 2016 prior to this year. Offending linked to drug habit to cope with mental health issues after children placed with grandparents.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Steven George Graham

Conspiracy to supply cocaine and possess firearms

October 17, 2025

Sentence: 8 years imprisonment

Steven George Graham, 45, of Alston Gardens, Throckley, Monaghan's brother-in-law, participated in the organised crime group from March to June 2020 by acting as a go-between for conspiracy to supply cocaine and possessing firearms on behalf of the group. Messages showed he arranged for a firearm to be buried. The gang handled over 50kg of cocaine, 20kg of heroin, 200kg of amphetamine, and weapons including a machine gun, pistols, and grenade, using EncroChat and disguised vehicles.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply cocaine and conspiracy to possess firearms on the basis of acting as a go-between for a prohibited weapon without possession or other involvement. Monaghan's brother-in-law, asked to arrange burial of a firearm. Described as a good family man who has always worked hard, work available on release.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Shaun Monaghan

Conspiracy to supply class A drugs and firearms

October 17, 2025

Sentence: 27 years imprisonment

Shaun Monaghan, 45, of no fixed address but from Newcastle, led an organised crime group based in the North East of England that conspired to distribute over 50kg of cocaine, 20kg of heroin, and 200kg of amphetamine between March and June 2020. The gang used EncroChat for communications, vans with hidden compartments and fake company logos (AA, British Gas, courier firms) to transport drugs and cash across the country, including to Leeds, London, and Stoke. They had access to an arsenal including a machine gun, pistols, and a viable hand grenade found during raids. Hundreds of thousands of pounds changed hands, with references to £370,000 and £280,000 payments. Monaghan was nervous about the firearms and discussed shifting them. The operation was exposed when French police infiltrated EncroChat in 2020, leading to his arrest by armed police in Turkey.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply cocaine, amphetamine and heroin, conspiracy to supply firearms, conspiracy to supply ammunition without a certificate, and conspiracy to commit GBH. Prior convictions for conspiracy to rob (6 years in 2000) and conspiracy to supply cocaine (8 years in 2013). Remorseful, arrested in Turkey.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Bryn Bowden

Conspiracy to supply amphetamine and cocaine

October 17, 2025

Sentence: 7 years imprisonment

Bryn Bowden, 28, of West Farm Avenue, Longbenton, was involved in Shaun Monaghan's organised crime group from March to June 2020, primarily storing and moving industrial-scale amounts of amphetamine in a shipping container and ammunition. He also facilitated the cocaine trade by collecting and moving large quantities of cash. The group distributed over 50kg of cocaine, 20kg of heroin, and 200kg of amphetamine using EncroChat and vehicles with hides and fake logos, with access to firearms like a machine gun, pistols, and grenade.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply amphetamine, conspiracy to possess ammunition without a certificate, and being concerned in the supply of cocaine. Principal role in storage and movement of large quantities of amphetamine in a shipping container, also collected and moved cash for cocaine purchases. Involved in something 'way above his head', container originally for work purposes, doing well in prison.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Daniel Simmons

Assault

October 17, 2025

Sentence: 24 months imprisonment

Northumberland lout assaulted a man and left him with a brain bleed amid a dispute over a dog.

James White

Conspiracy to supply cocaine

October 17, 2025

Sentence: 6 years imprisonment

James White, 45, of Orchard Drive, Newbiggin Hall, Newcastle, was involved peripherally in Shaun Monaghan's organised crime group from March to June 2020 by storing class A cocaine for another person to settle a debt from his own drug habit. He did not engage in onward supply and returned the drugs when asked. The group conspired to distribute over 50kg of cocaine, 20kg of heroin, and 200kg of amphetamine, with firearms access, using EncroChat and hidden vehicle compartments.

Admitted conspiracy to supply class A cocaine on the basis of storing drugs due to a debt from his own drug habit, no onward supply, limited to storage and return. Described as a caring loving person whose life went on the 'road to destruction' after imprisonment in 1998 for 3 years as driver in a fatal car crash. Exceedingly vulnerable due to debt.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

James David Ramshaw

Conspiracy to supply cocaine

October 17, 2025

Sentence: 9 years and 4 months imprisonment

James David Ramshaw, 41, of Hambleton Court, Ashington, was a trusted associate in Shaun Monaghan's organised crime group, handling collection of cash and supply of cocaine primarily in the Northumberland area between March and June 2020. He was arrested on May 29, 2020, following surveillance of an exchange and recovery of £100,000 in cash. The gang distributed over 50kg of cocaine, 20kg of heroin, and 200kg of amphetamine using hidden vehicle compartments and EncroChat communications, with access to firearms including a machine gun, pistols, and grenade.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply cocaine. Previously jailed for life with a minimum of 12 years for murder in 2005, released on life licence. Responsible for cash collection and cocaine supply in Northumberland. Arrested after surveillance observed an exchange and £100k cash recovered on May 29, 2020. Followed directions from higher up the chain, started with odd jobs.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Kasie Armstrong

Animal cruelty

October 17, 2025

Sentence: 1 year imprisonment suspended for 18 months, 120 hours unpaid work, 15 Rehabilitation Activity Requirement Days, 6 months mental health treatment requirement, 15-year animal ban

On October 2, 2024, Kasie Armstrong beat her partner's Jack Russell Terrier, Barney, to death at an address in Northbourne Street, Newcastle. The dog suffered rib fractures, a fractured cheek bone, lacerated liver causing fatal internal bleeding from blunt force trauma, consistent with beating, kicking, or stomping. Incriminating text messages and blood evidence at the scene implicated her. The RSPCA investigation confirmed non-accidental, malicious injuries resulting in excruciating pain and immense trauma to the dog.

Pleaded with partner not to contact police; claimed dog bit her but no injuries visible; judge imposed suspended sentence and community requirements.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

James Reed

Grievous Bodily Harm

October 16, 2025

Sentence: 40 months imprisonment

On April 19, James Reed, 26, of Collingwood Court, Washington, arrived at the victim's home demanding payment of a debt. Due to her mobility issues from a spinal cyst and being in the bath, she delayed answering the door, which angered him. Upon opening the door, he punched her in the face multiple times, slapped her, kicked her back, attempted to strangle her, beat her with her walking stick, threw an ashtray at her causing an elbow injury requiring staples, and knocked her unconscious several times over hours. He then took her to his house, boiled a kettle threatening to pour boiling water on her, and threatened her with a knuckle duster. The ordeal ended when his father intervened. The victim suffered a cut above her right eye, swelling and bruising to her left eye, bruising to forehead, face, legs and back, and the elbow wound. She reported severe ongoing pain, headaches, anxiety, sleep issues, flashbacks, nightmares, and constant fear for her life.

Pleaded guilty to GBH and having a knuckle duster in a private place. In breach of two suspended sentences. Five-year restraining order imposed. Has previous convictions for violence and witness intimidation. Completed courses on anger management and drug addiction while in prison and expressed remorse.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Gordon Grieveson

Causing death by careless driving

October 15, 2025

Sentence: 10 months imprisonment and disqualified from driving for 2 years and 4 months

On December 18, 2023, around 4.10pm, Gordon Grieveson, driving a grey Dacia Duster illegally without insurance or a full licence, struck 82-year-old pedestrian Jean Hindmarch on Easedale Gardens in Wrekenton, Gateshead, as she crossed from a bus stop after checking for hazards. She was wearing a bright pink coat and was rushed to hospital in critical condition, passing away four days later on December 22, 2023, due to her injuries.

Admitted driving illegally without a full licence or insurance. Claimed he could not stop but CCTV showed he had clear visibility of the victim.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Elton Kosova

Production of cannabis

October 15, 2025

Sentence: 12 months imprisonment

On August 8, 2025, police responded to reports of three balaclava-clad individuals attempting to burgle a house at Northumberland Terrace in Wallsend. Upon arrival, officers arrested people in a BMW outside for aggravated burglary and discovered a cannabis farm with over 200 plants across four rooms on the ground floor, first floor, and loft. Elton Kosova was found inside the address, where he had been staying for three weeks tending to the pre-existing plants without financial interest.

Pleaded guilty to being concerned in the production of cannabis. No previous convictions. Well-educated to college level, left Albania to find work, and expressed remorse for involvement.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Syed Islam

Possessing heroin with intent to supply and supplying heroin

October 15, 2025

Sentence: 26 months imprisonment

Syed Islam, 45, of Kilburn Green, Gateshead, was caught by police in an unmarked car on September 10, 2024, selling heroin from his Mercedes. Officers witnessed a man handing cash to him and approached, finding him attempting to conceal drugs. He admitted possession, leading to discovery of several bags of brown powder (heroin) in his jacket and car, totaling £1,980 in value, plus over £1,000 cash. Phone messages confirmed dealing activity over two months, twice weekly, earning £600 per week, with most profits to an associate. He was not addicted to the drug but motivated by financial gain after becoming unwell and unable to work.

Pleaded guilty to possessing heroin with intent to supply and supplying heroin. Judge Penny Moreland noted his significant role in the operation and expectation of financial advantage. Prior 25 convictions including drugs, violence, and driving offences. Became involved due to unemployment and alcohol addiction.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Harry Monteith

Conspiracy to supply cocaine and cannabis

October 14, 2025

Sentence: 7 years and 3 months imprisonment

Harry Monteith, 45, of Lytham Place, Walker, Newcastle, was a trusted lieutenant in Stephen Faetz's cocaine gang. He was involved in the conspiracy to supply cocaine and cannabis in the final months of the operation, which was dismantled after the EncroChat network infiltration. Monteith couriered cash and drugs, negotiated with customers, collected payments, monitored product quality, and employed a driver. He was personally responsible for moving more than five kilos of cocaine and distributing cannabis resin. The organization distributed over 100 kilos of high-purity cocaine and handled hundreds of thousands of pounds in cash.

Played a role in specific transactions collecting and distributing cash and drugs. Worked directly for Stephen Faetz, using EncroChat phones. Allowed family homes to be used as drop-off points. Managed cannabis farms. Difficult background and case delays impacted mental health.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Natasha Waddle

Robbery and assault

October 13, 2025

Sentence: 4 years and 10 months imprisonment

Natasha Waddle, 34, of no fixed abode, was part of a group attempting to steal £300-worth of alcohol from a shop on Whitburn Road in Seaburn in April 2025. During an altercation with security staff, a 72-year-old man intervened to support them, accompanied by his 95-year-old aunt. Waddle pushed the elderly woman in the chest, causing her to fall and suffer a fractured skull and a blood blister to the back of her head. The injuries were initially life-threatening, but she recovered and was discharged from hospital. Waddle was apprehended shortly after by an off-duty police officer.

David Mcbeth

Robbery

October 13, 2025

Sentence: 5 years and 4 months imprisonment

David McBeth, 35, of Skip Sea View, Sunderland, was part of a group attempting to steal £300-worth of alcohol from a shop on Whitburn Road in Seaburn in April 2025. During an altercation with security staff, a 72-year-old man intervened to support them, accompanied by his 95-year-old aunt. Waddle pushed the elderly woman in the chest, causing her to fall and suffer a fractured skull and a blood blister to the back of her head. The injuries were initially life-threatening, but she recovered and was discharged from hospital. McBeth was detained following the incident.

Bradley Hall

Public order offence

October 13, 2025

Sentence: £80 fine and suspended sentence extended to 2 years

Bradley Hall, 26, leaned out of a top window at his home on Julian Avenue in Walker, Newcastle upon Tyne, holding a kitchen knife with a 6ins blade, and threatened to stab police officers and himself after they arrived for a welfare check prompted by a concerning Facebook post. He shouted threats including 'Knock on this door again and I will stick this knife in my throat, if you come inside, I will stick it in your throat' and falsely claimed to have a gun. No gun was found during the search of his home. He refused to engage initially but was eventually arrested.

Pleaded guilty to public order offence. Was on a suspended sentence at the time for attacking his girlfriend and threatening her with acid. Has nine prior offences. Suffered from mental health issues and suicidal thoughts.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Richard Anderson

Robbery

October 13, 2025

Sentence: 5 years imprisonment

Richard Anderson, 54, of no fixed abode, was part of a group attempting to steal £300-worth of alcohol from a shop on Whitburn Road in Seaburn in April 2025. During an altercation with security staff, a 72-year-old man intervened to support them, accompanied by his 95-year-old aunt. Waddle pushed the elderly woman in the chest, causing her to fall and suffer a fractured skull and a blood blister to the back of her head. The injuries were initially life-threatening, but she recovered and was discharged from hospital. Anderson was detained following the incident.

Brian Harrison

Indecent assault and indecency with a child

October 10, 2025

Sentence: 4 years and 4 months imprisonment

Brian Harrison, who was a teenager at the time, groomed a young boy with gifts and carried out sexual abuse in Sunderland approximately 50 years ago. The offences included four counts of indecent assault and two counts of indecency with a child. The victim lived with the ordeal for decades, suffering negative impacts on every part of his life, before reporting it to police. Harrison, now 66 and residing in Poachers Lane, Warrington, Cheshire, was arrested following the report. He feels remorseful and wished to apologise through his lawyers.

Admitted four charges of indecent assault and two of indecency with a child. No similar prior convictions. Ordered to register as a sex offender for life. Judge assessed sentence as if imposed at the time of offences when he was a youth. Has heart problems and separated from wife after arrest. Defence argued immediate imprisonment has no purpose other than punishment 50 years later and highlighted realistic prospect of rehabilitation.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Bridgette Hope

Arson being reckless as to whether life was endangered

October 10, 2025

Sentence: 29 months imprisonment

On Sunday May 11, Bridgette Hope, 31, of Birtley, Gateshead, visited her mother around 3pm and mentioned she was going to have a fire at home, which her mother thought meant in the garden. Just before 9pm, she deliberately set fire to clothes and other items in the middle of her living room at Rutland Square, Birtley. She then left the property, telling a neighbour who smelled smoke that 'it's just my oven'. Thick black smoke was seen, but the blaze did not spread far, causing damage to the floor and ceiling estimated in thousands of pounds, with a massive financial impact on the landlord. A second fire site in the bedroom was noted but not confirmed for the same day. Police found her by a river bank with ash on her hands. She has been sectioned twice in the last three years, has a traumatic childhood, was depressed, isolated, self-harming, and addicted to drugs at the time, though not psychotic.

Pleaded guilty to arson being reckless as to whether life was endangered. Has mental health issues, previous conviction for criminal damage in 2021, lacks remorse or motivation to address problems. Judge noted she contemplated arson six hours prior and the potential harm if fire had spread.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

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