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Newcastle Crown Court Sentencing Results

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

Newcastle Crown Court
September 2024 3 cases
Steven Lawrence Brown
Fraud by misrepresentation *
Sentence
20 months imprisonment
Steven Lawrence Brown, operating as Tyneside Renovate and Build Ltd, accepted £7,500 from Elaine Thompson in February 2020 for building a garage, patio, and driveway as a memorial garden for her granddaughter Jess Moore, who died in November 2019 from Wolf-Hirschhorn syndrome. He dug up the front and back gardens but failed to complete the work, leaving muddy craters, exposed gas pipes, and building rubble. He targeted at least four other victims similarly. Brown, 44, of Benton Close, Benton, Newcastle, was reported to police and admitted the charges.
Admitted five counts of fraud by misrepresentation. Targeted multiple victims including Elaine Thompson.
Michael Strange
Indecent assault on a man aged 16 or over *
Sentence
six years' imprisonment
Michael Strange abused two boys under his tuition at a North East cricket club during the 1980s and 1990s, committing acts of indecent assault while they were aged 16 or over. The victims came forward to report the offences despite significant trauma. The case was built robustly with Northumbria Police, leading to guilty pleas.
Pleading guilty to four charges. Already serving a jail sentence for previous offences. Described as a dangerous sexual predator who abused trust as a cricket coach.
Callum Robinson
Possession of indecent images of a child and extreme pornographic material *
Sentence
12 months imprisonment, suspended for 12 months
Callum Robinson was convicted in 2024 for possessing an indecent video of a child and extreme pornographic material. The offences involved having prohibited content on his device, which breached his existing conditions. He had a prior conviction for rape in 2009, and this suspended sentence was imposed as part of his ongoing management under a Sexual Harm Prevention Order.
Plea of guilty to possessing an indecent video of a child and extreme porn. This sentence was for offences in 2024, and the breach of SHPO relates to deleting Snapchat history.
August 2024 6 cases
Andrew Holland
Theft *
Sentence
18 months imprisonment
Andrew Holland, aged 41, from Alsager, stole £1,523 worth of goods from Co-op and Tesco in Kidsgrove over two weeks.
Banned from shops in Kidsgrove after theft spree.
Alistair Paylor
Fraudulent evasion of prohibition on importation of cocaine *
Sentence
6 years imprisonment
Alistair Paylor acted as a drug mule, attempting to smuggle £8.5 million worth of cocaine through Newcastle Airport from Mexico. He carried two large suitcases containing 25.18 kilos of 97% pure cocaine and agreed to do so to settle his debts. He was questioned by Border Force upon arrival.
Admitted to fraudulent evasion of the prohibition on the importation of cocaine. Had eleven previous convictions, including for possessing cannabis with intent to supply.
Reece Greenwood
Violent disorder *
Sentence
2.5 years imprisonment
Reece Greenwood, 31, a father-to-be, live-streamed himself during riots in Sunderland, where he shouted racial slurs, encouraged rioters, and verbally abused police officers.
Live-streamed himself shouting racial slurs and actively encouraging rioters while verbally abusing police officers.
Riley Adey
Violent disorder *
Sentence
2 years detention
Riley Adey, 19, was filmed waving from the top of an overturned car, looting fire extinguishers from a vandalised business, and repeatedly throwing missiles, including a vape, a brick, and a scaffolding pole, at officers during riots in Sunderland on August 4.
Pleaded guilty after being filmed during riots.
Leanne Hodgson
Violent disorder *
Sentence
2.5 years imprisonment
Leanne Hodgson, 43, of Holborn Road, Sunderland, repeatedly pushed industrial bins at a police line, deliberately ran into an officer, called another a racial slur, picked up a glass bottle as if to throw it, broke bricks to be used as missiles, and threw an object at a parked police vehicle smashing the windscreen, during disorder in Sunderland on 2 August. She was clearly under the influence of alcohol and shouting abuse at officers. Identified from social media videos. Tried to buy a balaclava earlier.
Pleaded guilty to violent disorder. Has mental health difficulties exacerbated by alcohol problems and was ashamed of her actions. Denied involvement in original march but became involved after pub closed.
Jason Hoganson
Assault by beating and breach of a restraining order *
Sentence
18 months imprisonment
Jason Hoganson attacked his former partner in Newcastle on December 11, 2023, despite having a restraining order in place to keep him away from her. The incident was captured on a doorbell video camera.
Admitted assault by beating and breach of a restraining order. Has 109 previous convictions. Defending counsel noted his past as an accomplished actor who struggled with fame, leading to drink, drugs, and a downward spiral.
July 2024 5 cases
Youssef Wynne
Murder *
Sentence
Life imprisonment with minimum term of 33 years
Youssef Wynne, 39, of Wuppertal Court, Jarrow, was involved in a series of ammonia attacks across Tyneside targeting rival drug-dealers to steal drugs and deter future dealing. The attacks occurred at four addresses in Gateshead and South Shields over eleven days in August 2023. One attack targeted Andrew Foster, 26, of Wrekenton, Gateshead, who died from burns and a severe respiratory attack after ammonia was thrown in his face at his home. The attacks caused one other victim to lose sight in one eye and two others to require significant medical treatment.
Found guilty of murder, robbery, assault causing actual bodily harm, causing grievous bodily harm with intent, and two counts of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm with intent.
Kenneth Fawcett
Murder *
Sentence
Life imprisonment with minimum term of 32 years
Kenneth Fawcett, 33, of Balkwell Avenue, North Shields, was involved in a series of ammonia attacks across Tyneside targeting rival drug-dealers to steal drugs and deter future dealing. The attacks occurred at four addresses in Gateshead and South Shields over eleven days in August 2023. One attack targeted Andrew Foster, 26, of Wrekenton, Gateshead, who died from burns and a severe respiratory attack after ammonia was thrown in his face at his home.
Found guilty of murder, robbery, causing grievous bodily harm with intent, and two counts of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm with intent.
John Wandless
Murder *
Sentence
Life imprisonment with minimum term of 31 years
John Wandless, 33, of no fixed abode, was involved in a series of ammonia attacks across Tyneside targeting rival drug-dealers to steal drugs and deter future dealing. The attacks occurred at four addresses in Gateshead and South Shields over eleven days in August 2023. One attack targeted Andrew Foster, 26, of Wrekenton, Gateshead, who died from burns and a severe respiratory attack after ammonia was thrown in his face at his home. The attacks caused one other victim to lose sight in one eye and two others to require significant medical treatment.
Found guilty of murder, robbery, causing grievous bodily harm with intent and two counts of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm. Admitted handling stolen goods and arson.
Josh Hawthorn
Murder *
Sentence
Life imprisonment with minimum term of 22 years
Josh Hawthorn, 22, of Ashfield, Jarrow, was involved in a series of ammonia attacks across Tyneside targeting rival drug-dealers to steal drugs and deter future dealing. The attacks occurred at four addresses in Gateshead and South Shields over eleven days in August 2023. One attack targeted Andrew Foster, 26, of Wrekenton, Gateshead, who died from burns and a severe respiratory attack after ammonia was thrown in his face at his home. The attacks caused one other victim to lose sight in one eye and two others to require significant medical treatment.
Found guilty of murder and robbery.
Jennifer O'brien
Shop theft *
Sentence
18-month community order
Jennifer O'Brien, 32, of Sunderland, targeted more than 17 stores across the North East, from Belford in North Northumberland to Ryton in Gateshead, stealing goods worth £1,847.77 including booze, food, diffusers, laundry products, pencil cases, tie dye kits, keyrings, toys and gel pens. The thefts occurred over less than a year while she was pregnant and addicted to drugs. She also assaulted shop workers, including in Primark and Waitrose, when confronted.
Pleaded guilty to 17 shop thefts, two assaults and one count of criminal damage. Order lasts until 2027. Has 21 prior convictions for 57 offences. Owes over £7,000 in fines, compensation and surcharges.
June 2024 2 cases
Joanne Nicholson
Perverting the course of justice *
Sentence
25 months imprisonment
Joanne Nicholson, 40, of Stanhope Road, South Shields, tormented her former partner and his new girlfriend with a 16-month campaign of false allegations after their relationship ended in early 2023. She sent letters branding him a paedophile to neighbours and his 80-year-old mother, made at least 15 false police statements, anonymous 999 calls fabricating domestic abuse and rape, leading to multiple arrests of the innocent couple. She tricked family court into issuing a non-molestation order, created fake messages and email addresses, and set up a fake dating profile. The campaign caused severe distress, job loss, and suicidal thoughts for victims. Nicholson was arrested in June 2024 with evidence on her phone.
Pleaded guilty to sending a letter with intent to cause distress or anxiety and doing acts tending to pervert the course of justice. Given a 10-year restraining order. Defence mentioned mental health issues including PTSD and bipolar disorder, and vulnerability in prison.
Brian Jordan
Rape *
Sentence
7 years and 7 months imprisonment
Brian Jordan was found guilty of raping and indecently assaulting one girl and having unlawful sexual intercourse with another girl, leading to his sentencing.
Became distressed and feared attack by other inmates after learning his conviction was reported in the press; had no prior thoughts of suicide or self-harm.
March 2024 11 cases
Andrew Maclean
Assault occasioning actual bodily harm *
Sentence
six months suspended for 18 months with 100 hours unpaid work
On the evening of December 1, 2023, during a night out drinking in Newcastle, Andrew MacLean, 25, of Station Road North, Wallsend, became involved in a dispute after being found in possession of a phone that was not his, though there was no suggestion of theft. A row broke out with the group, including the phone's owner. The victim intervened, and MacLean punched and then headbutted him, causing a severe injury that resulted in the victim losing a front tooth, requiring removal and replacement with a false one. The force of the headbutt also caused a deep cut to MacLean's own forehead. The victim reported ongoing pain, sensitivity to cold, and lifelong consequences from the unprovoked assault due to MacLean's temper.
First offence, viewed as isolated incident. Defendant is working and has faced life difficulties not of his own making. Judge Gavin Doig presided.
Jess Wraith
Causing serious injury by dangerous driving *
Sentence
30 months imprisonment, 3-year driving ban
On October 8, 2023, around 9am, on Chillingham Road, Heaton, heading towards Byker, Jess Wraith deliberately drove his car at his ex-partner's sister, who was pushing her one-year-old son in a pushchair. After a heated argument where he threatened to run her and her son over, he reversed the car, revved the engine, mounted the pavement, and struck her, fracturing her ankle which required surgery and a cage fitted to her foot. She was hospitalized for a week in excruciating pain. Wraith then drove off. The incident followed a scene he caused outside a primary school with his ex-partner.
Pleaded guilty. Has 22 previous convictions including assaults, dangerous driving and drug driving. Restraining order imposed.
Anthony Morrison-Taylor
Public order offence *
Sentence
£500 fine, £750 compensation, £750 costs
Anthony Morrison-Taylor, 44, of Cellar Hill Close, Newbottle Village, near Houghton-le-Spring, appeared intoxicated on an easyJet flight from Bristol to Newcastle in February 2024. When refused more alcohol due to his condition during a time of turbulence, he became abusive towards cabin crew, shouting 'You can all f*** off, I'm getting alcohol and there's nothing you can do about it' and 'You are all a bunch of *****'. The air steward contacted police via air traffic control, leading to his arrest upon landing at Newcastle Airport. The air steward reported feeling shocked, noting such incidents are increasing and that his role is to ensure customer safety.
Pleaded guilty to public order offence. Sentence deferred for six months in September 2023 on condition of no further alcohol-related offences, which he abided by. Judge Gavin Doig noted it was shocking behaviour but hoped not to see him again given no prior history of offending.
Ruth Taylor
Grievous Bodily Harm *
Sentence
20 months imprisonment
Ruth Taylor attacked her friend, who had allowed her to stay at his home in Sunderland, on two occasions. On December 17, 2023, she punched him in the face, bursting his lip, after he told her she was not welcome back. On January 5, 2024, around 11pm, she launched a brutal assault, stamping on his head, face, and ear repeatedly until she feared she had killed him, leaving him unconscious and covered in blood. She had consumed half a bottle of vodka that day. The victim suffered multiple abrasions and bruises to his face, bruising inside his cheek, swelling to his eyelids, bruising to both eyes which he couldn't open, burst blood vessels in both eyes, extensive swelling to his ear with the canal swollen shut, and 70% of the skin on the outer ear cartilage removed. Taylor called an ambulance using a false name, claiming he had slipped, and later threatened to slit his throat while ignoring paramedics. Blood was found throughout the flat, including on walls, floors, and a frying pan.
Pleaded guilty to GBH and battery. Has 123 previous convictions including for violence. Given a ten-year restraining order. Defence noted difficult childhood, history of domestic violence, and drug misuse issues.
Jamie Lees
Assault by beating *
Sentence
£120 fine, £100 compensation to each victim, £48 victim surcharge
On December 6, 2023, Jamie Lees entered the Fox and Hounds pub in Benwell, Newcastle, already acting aggressively towards staff. Upon being told the bar was closed and to leave, he approached a seated barmaid, attempted to grab her face and clothes causing a scratch, threw a drink at her, struck her on the back of the head while swinging his arms, raised clenched fists at a security guard who intervened, and pushed and shoved the guard.
Pleaded guilty to two counts of assault by beating. Has 46 prior offences, last in court December previous year. Stepped away from violent offending in last six years due to employment, but drank excessively on the night. Defence noted provocative language from complainant.
Keiron Kennedy
Attempted robbery *
Sentence
2 years and 10 months imprisonment
On November 15, 2023, Keiron Kennedy, 29, of Bristol Avenue, Donwell, Washington, approached two women walking their dog in the area of a graveyard on Hylton Castle Road, Sunderland. He initially appeared friendly, engaging in conversation and trying to stroke the pet, but suddenly turned violent, grabbing the dog lead and demanding 'Give us her or I'll hurt you'. He made several attempts to grab the dog, punching one woman in the face, hitting the second twice to the head and neck, putting two fingers into the first woman's mouth and pulling her to the ground, and punching the second woman again. The attack ended when a member of the public intervened and threatened to call police. Both victims suffered injuries including bruising, grazing, cuts, and swelling, and were left traumatised, with one feeling violated and scared, and the other requiring therapy for anxiety and sleep issues.
Pleaded guilty to two counts of attempted robbery. Has three previous convictions. Self-employed tattoo artist whose business will close due to imprisonment. Was drinking heavily at the time and has mental health issues affecting his behaviour.
Connor Wade
Robbery *
Sentence
30 months imprisonment
On April 25, 2023, Connor Wade and another man attacked a stranger in a newsagents on Westoe Road, South Shields, punching him. The victim ran to a nearby chip shop to escape, but they followed and continued the assault with kicks and punches while he cowered in a corner, leaving him with bruising under his left eye and to his head and neck, a burst lip, and heavy bleeding. They ripped off a gold necklace belonging to his late father. The attackers had an axe, which was not used. The necklace was recovered after their arrest. The other man has since died.
Pleaded guilty to robbery and having a bladed article. Has 15 previous convictions. Recorder Nathan Moxon noted Wade was a full and active participant in the gratuitous and prolonged violence. Defence stated he is genuinely remorseful and recognises the need to address his issues. Former Nissan worker.
Christopher Johnson
Attempting to cause GBH with intent *
Sentence
28 months imprisonment
On January 6, 2024, Christopher Johnson entered the home of his friend in Pensher Street, Sunderland, through the unlocked rear door and found him in bed with a woman Johnson believed was his girlfriend. He punched the man under his right eye, then picked up a two-foot long metal baseball bat and struck him multiple times on the face above the eye, causing bleeding and pain. He also struck the woman once on the head with the bat, causing her to fall and briefly lose consciousness, then pushed her onto a sofa, slapped her four times, and briefly held her neck. After leaving, he smashed a kitchen window with the bat, causing £650 of damage. The man suffered a cut above his eye, and the woman had a large bump and bruise to her forehead.
Pleaded guilty to attempting to cause GBH with intent on the man, assault occasioning actual bodily harm on the woman and criminal damage. Given a restraining order. Has 27 previous convictions, including for assaults and robbery.
Trevor Murphy
Damaging property and affray *
Sentence
34 months imprisonment
On the afternoon of March 1, 2024, Trevor Murphy, 62, of Sycamore Avenue, Alnwick, borrowed a car and attacked a community mental health hub in Alnwick, Northumberland, using a hammer to shatter five windows, causing £4,877 of damage to the NHS building. Less than an hour later, he went to the job centre in Alnwick and smashed windows with the hammer, causing £5,475 of damage. He then threw a red canister containing a smoke bomb through one of the broken windows, filling the room with smoke and causing fear among staff and customers who took cover. Two days later, on March 3, 2024, while in custody at Middle Engine Lane police station, he assaulted a police officer by lashing out, trying to bite him, and spitting, resulting in injuries to the officer including grazing to the neck and arm, and pain to the knee and back.
Found guilty of two counts of damaging property and one of affray. Pleaded guilty to assaulting an emergency worker. Has 74 previous convictions, none since 2004. Expressed no remorse and warned 'I'm not done yet'. Pre-sentence report described as bleak reading.
Lawson Natty
Manslaughter *
Sentence
32 months imprisonment
Lawson Natty supplied the machete used in the attack where Gordon Gault, 14, was stabbed in the arm during a gang-related incident in Newcastle's West End in November 2022, resulting in Gordon's death six days later.
Was 18 at the time of sentencing and born in Belgium, potentially facing deportation. He supplied the machete used in the attack.
Carlos Neto
Manslaughter *
Sentence
9 years and 2 months imprisonment
Carlos Neto stabbed Gordon Gault, 14, in the arm with a machete during a gang-related attack while Gordon was riding on the back of a friend's e-bike in Newcastle's West End in November 2022, leading to Gordon's death six days later.
Was 18 at the time of sentencing. Drill music was noted as a factor in the violence, and he could face deportation after serving his sentence.
February 2024 4 cases
Richard Bathgate
Possessing class A drugs with intent to supply and money laundering *
Sentence
31 months imprisonment
On October 8, 2023, Richard Bathgate, 49, of Walby Hill, Rothbury, was driving a BMW northbound on the A1 just south of Berwick with Emma Todd in the passenger seat. Police stopped him for speeding and found digital scales, a warm glass crack pipe behind the driver's seat, 13.8g of heroin worth £1,400, and 25g of cocaine worth £2,100. A subsequent search of his home uncovered a small amount of cocaine, scales, and a debtors tick list with 14 names. Mobile phone analysis showed he had been supplying cocaine and heroin in street deals of £20 to £60. A financial investigation revealed £44,000 of unexplained deposits in his account over the 12 months prior to arrest.
Pleaded guilty to possessing heroin and cocaine with intent to supply, being concerned in the supply of heroin and cocaine, and concealing criminal property. Has 16 previous convictions. Provided reference from Northumberland councillor and sought help for drug problems.
Emma Todd
Being concerned in the supply of class A drugs and money laundering *
Sentence
31 months imprisonment
On October 8, 2023, Emma Todd, 42, of St Mary’s Field, Morpeth, was a passenger in a BMW driven by Richard Bathgate on the A1 just south of Berwick. Although she fled the scene and was not found with illegal items at the time, mobile phone analysis showed she had been involved in supplying street-level deals of cocaine and heroin, instructing a customer to use her 'work phone'. A financial investigation revealed just under £24,000 of unexplained deposits in her account over the 12 months prior to arrest.
Pleaded guilty to possessing heroin and cocaine with intent to supply, being concerned in the supply of heroin and cocaine, and concealing criminal property. Has eight previous convictions. Has drug problems and caring responsibilities.
Colin Ferry
Inflicting Grievous Bodily Harm *
Sentence
32 months imprisonment
On September 22, 2023, Colin Ferry, 36, of Limekiln Close, Wallsend, argued with his partner after she ordered a takeaway pizza that was delivered to the wrong address. He called her offensive names, referenced her past abuse, and punched her in the face, causing bruising. Fearing escalation and possible use of a knife, she jumped from a first-floor window, breaking her vertebrae and fracturing her ankle. She ran to a nearby tyre shop for help, appearing terrified. The victim required surgery and awaits further operations, impacting her active lifestyle. She now lives in fear and has relocated away from friends.
Pleaded guilty to inflicting GBH. Has seven previous convictions, including assault and domestic battery. Remorseful for the injuries caused. 15-year restraining order imposed.
Robert Taylor
Drugs offences and money laundering *
Sentence
7.5 years imprisonment
Robert Taylor, 54, from Wallsend, North Tyneside, was involved in drugs offences and money laundering as part of a transnational drug trafficking gang coordinating shipments to the UK in alliance with the Clan del Golfo. He was sentenced in his absence after failing to appear in court.
Sentenced in absence for drugs offences and money laundering. Member of transnational drug trafficking gang and agent for the 'Irish mafia'.
January 2024 5 cases
Ryan Hodgson
Dangerous driving *
Sentence
10 months imprisonment and 3 years driving ban
On March 4, 2023, Ryan Hodgson, aged 22, of Rokeby Avenue, Lemington, Newcastle, was spotted driving a Seat Ibiza on Hawthorn Road in Gosforth, Newcastle, while banned from driving. He ignored police signals to stop and led a high-speed chase, reaching 80mph in a 30mph zone, going through a red light, and forcing other vehicles off the road. With two passengers in the car, he was stopped on a roundabout near the A1 when rammed by two police vehicles, causing him to spin out and crash into a barrier. This followed a prior 10-month jail sentence in 2023 for dangerous driving, aggravated vehicle taking, and related offences.
Pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, failing to stop, having no insurance and driving while disqualified. Has 18 previous convictions, including for driving offences. Mental health problems mentioned; remorseful and trying to turn life around.
Paul Kirk
Producing cannabis and possessing cannabis with intent to supply *
Sentence
9 months suspended for 18 months with 100 hours unpaid work and a mental health treatment requirement
On August 7, 2023, Paul Kirk was spotted by police on patrol walking two dogs on Pitt Street, Newcastle, approaching a vehicle but walking away upon seeing the police. Officers followed him due to suspicion and smelled cannabis. He was searched and found in possession of the drug. A search of his home on Diana Street revealed two cannabis growing tents in a bedroom with 91 plants valued at up to £26,000, and 182g of cannabis bush worth up to £1,600. His phone contained messages indicating street-level dealing.
Pleaded guilty to producing cannabis and possessing cannabis with intent to supply. Has 15 previous convictions, including jail in 2004 for possessing heroin with intent to supply. Continues to take drugs and has not worked for seven years due to mental health issues.
Jamie Moore
Inflicting Grievous Bodily Harm *
Sentence
30 weeks imprisonment suspended for 2 years, 180 hours unpaid work, £1,000 compensation
On June 26, 2024, Jamie Moore, 40, of Taylor Street, Blyth, confronted the victim outside The Flying Horse pub in Blyth following a minor disagreement between the victim and Moore's girlfriend. Believing falsely that the victim had pushed his girlfriend, Moore picked up the slightly-built victim from behind while he was on the phone to his mother and hurled him to the ground in a violent twisting motion. The victim, whose father had died the previous evening, landed on a kerb, suffering multiple broken ribs, significant bleeding into his chest cavity, and requiring hospitalization for a week including critical care, chest drainage, and a blood transfusion. The attack has caused the victim severe pain, anxiety, and ongoing effects.
Pleaded guilty to inflicting GBH. Remorseful. Judge Edward Legard commented on the unprovoked nature of the attack. Restraining order imposed.
Sean Atkinson
Grievous Bodily Harm *
Sentence
3 years imprisonment
Sean Atkinson, 35, of Ivyway, Pelton, County Durham, subjected his former partner to a brutal attack on May 13, 2023. After accusing her of seeing someone else, he threw her phone at her, punched her in the face causing her to fall, pinned her down, stamped on the back of her head breaking her nose, kneed her in the face, and then snapped her nose back into place while throttling her. This followed a previous attack where he reversed a car over her, breaking her pelvis and ribs. The victim suffered a fractured nose, open wound, and permanent disfigurement.
Found guilty by a jury of inflicting grievous bodily harm. Ten year restraining order imposed. Prior convictions include assault in May 2021 and causing serious injury by dangerous driving against the same victim.
Lawon Natty
Manslaughter *
Sentence
two years and eight months imprisonment
Lawon Natty was involved in a violent clash between rival groups near Elswick Park in Newcastle's West End in November 2022, which resulted in the stabbing of 14-year-old Gordon Gault with a machete, causing severe injuries that led to Gordon's death six days later.
Convicted of manslaughter.
November 2023 2 cases
Logan Macphail
Murder *
Sentence
life imprisonment with a minimum term of 17 years
Logan MacPhail, then 16, travelled from Gateshead to Hexham, Northumberland, armed with a kitchen knife on January 27, 2023. He followed his ex-girlfriend Holly Newton, 15, around the town for 45 minutes, sending voice messages to her contacts to arrange a meeting. When Holly and a 16-year-old boy visited a takeaway on the high street, MacPhail approached and lured her to a nearby alleyway off Priestpopple. He launched a violent attack, stabbing Holly multiple times, inflicting 36 wounds. The boy intervened and was stabbed in the shoulder and leg. Both were found injured by emergency services; Holly died from her injuries, while the boy survived after treatment.
Admitted manslaughter and possession of a bladed article but denied murder and grievous bodily harm with intent. Found guilty of murder and grievous bodily harm with intent following a six-week trial. Also given a five-year concurrent sentence for grievous bodily harm with intent.
Ryan Grundy
Non-fatal strangulation *
Sentence
14 months imprisonment
Ryan Grundy engaged in multiple acts of domestic violence against Gemma Laidler, including slapping her during an argument on August 10, 2022, throwing her to the floor on October 4, 2022, headbutting and hitting her on July 25, 2023, during which she tried to escape and contacted a neighbour for help, and harassing her by sending repeated pleading emails between November 2023 and December 30, 2023, despite her requests to stop.
Pleaded guilty to non-fatal strangulation, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, harassment and two common assaults. Had already served his time on remand.
August 2023 1 case
Neville Dargue
Fraudulent evasion of prohibition on importation of a class B drug *
Sentence
26 months imprisonment
Neville Dargue was arrested at Newcastle International Airport after arriving from Bangkok on June 9, 2023, with two suitcases containing 47.1 kg of cannabis, valued at £471,000. The cannabis was found in vacuum-sealed packages, and he was sentenced for his involvement in smuggling the drug into the UK. He has a history of similar offences, including growing cannabis on multiple occasions.
Admitted charge of being concerned in the fraudulent evasion of a prohibition on the importation of a class B drug. Has prior convictions for growing cannabis and was described as an experienced cultivator involved in multiple cannabis operations.
June 2023 1 case
Stephen Ansbro
Murder *
Sentence
life imprisonment with a minimum term of 18 years
On March 3, 2023, Stephen Ansbro, a 62-year-old wheelchair user, entered the flat of his neighbour Jane Collinson at Dunlem Court sheltered accommodation in Barnard Castle, County Durham, after she had complained about him to management. He subjected her to a savage knife attack, inflicting 59 incised wounds to her head, neck, trunk, arms, hands and legs, and one stab wound to her face, causing her to bleed to death over tens of minutes. Ansbro bolted the door from outside to stage a suicide before leaving. Her body was discovered the next day by family. The attack followed Ansbro's threats to kill her after learning of her complaints in September 2022.
Pleaded guilty to murder. Also admitted four counts of indecent assault on a schoolgirl and one count of child cruelty against a primary school-aged boy. Had 62 previous convictions, all for dishonesty, including two for robbery.
May 2023 1 case
David Boyd
Murder *
Sentence
life imprisonment with a minimum term of 29 years
In October 1992, David Boyd, a paedophile from Stockton, tricked seven-year-old Nikki Allan into going with him near her home in the Wear Garth area of Sunderland with the intention of sexually abusing her. When she screamed, he forced her into the derelict Old Exchange Building, smashed her skull with a brick, and stabbed her 37 times, leading to her death. The case was solved in 2018 through a cold case review that uncovered new DNA evidence linking him to the crime.
Found guilty of murder by a jury.
August 2021 1 case
Steven Wood
Attempted Murder *
Sentence
life imprisonment with a minimum of 12 years
Steven Wood attempted to murder his partner Martina Turner by stabbing her 29 times in the kitchen of their shared home in Winlaton Mill, Gateshead, in May 2021. After the attack, Turner hid in a cupboard and called for help with a blade still embedded in her chest. Wood fled the house, locking the door behind him, and was later found under the Redheugh Bridge after attempting to take his own life. Turner suffered wounds to her heart, spine, legs, and other parts of her body, requiring six weeks in hospital and multiple operations.
Pleaded guilty to attempted murder. The judge stated he posed a high level of danger to the public.
July 2018 1 case
George Ormond
Sex abuse offences *
Sentence
20 years imprisonment
George Ormond, who was 62 at the time of reporting, abused his position as a youth team worker for Newcastle United, committing sex abuse offences against players over a 25-year period.
Worked for Newcastle United's youth team; sentenced for sex abuse offences spanning 25 years.
May 2018 1 case
Paul Holland
Attempting to meet a child following grooming *
Sentence
20 months imprisonment
Paul Holland, 50, of Bentinck House in Elswick, was caught in 2018 after online vigilantes set up a decoy profile on a social media site posing as a 13-year-old girl. He sent sexually explicit messages, including photos of his genitals and videos of him performing a sex act, and arranged to meet the 'teenager' at a shop near St James’ Park in Newcastle city centre, where he was confronted and arrested.
Pleaded guilty to attempting to meet a child following grooming and attempting to incite a child to engage in non-penetrative sexual activity. Ordered to sign the Sex Offenders' Register and made subject of a Sexual Harm Prevention Order. Has 94 prior offences. Most recently locked up in September 2024 for breaching orders. Currently awaiting further sentence for failing to comply with the Sex Offenders' Register.
January 2017 1 case
Trimaan Dhillon
Murder *
Sentence
life imprisonment
Trimaan Dhillon, a former soldier, became obsessed with his ex-girlfriend Alice Ruggles after their brief relationship ended. He hacked into her social media accounts, bombarded her with abuse via calls, messages, and emails, and made sinister visits to her home, including leaving flowers and chocolates on her window sill. On October 12, 2016, Dhillon drove 120 miles from his army barracks in Edinburgh to Alice's home in Rawling Road, Bensham, Gateshead, where he slit her throat, killing her.
Convicted of murder after denying the charge and claiming Alice Ruggles fell on a carving knife during an argument.
January 2016 2 cases
Joe Welsh
Murder *
Sentence
life imprisonment with a minimum term of 25 years
On January 25, 2016, in North Shields, Joe Welsh lured Reece Allen to his death following a petty Facebook spat. Welsh, who had been on a drink and drugs binge, sent threatening messages to Reece, broke a window at Reece's mother's house to provoke him, and then stabbed Reece multiple times in West Avenue when Reece confronted him. Reece, aged 24, was protecting his family and friends, and died from his injuries despite his mother's attempts to save him.
Convicted of murder after claiming self-defence; had a history of violence and was under the influence of drink and drugs at the time.
James Wheatley
Murder *
Sentence
life imprisonment with a minimum of 23 years
James Wheatley befriended 24-year-old Lee Irving, who suffered from profound learning difficulties, and held him captive at his home in Kenton Bar, Newcastle, shared with his mother Julie Mills. Lee was subjected to a horrifying campaign of violence, beaten and sedated with drugs including morphine to prevent escape. He died in 2015 from a catalogue of injuries, including 27 rib fractures, likened to car crash casualties. His body was wheeled in a pushchair and dumped near the A1 in Fawdon.
Found guilty of murder. Moved to vulnerable prisoners unit for safety due to the nature of his crime.
March 2008 2 cases
Philip Craggs
Murder *
Sentence
life imprisonment with a minimum term of 15 years 6 months
Philip Craggs stabbed Paul Gilbert to death on February 13, 2008, after Paul accidentally bumped into Craggs and his twin brother Mark on Welbeck Road in Walker, Newcastle. Paul, aged 22 and expecting a child, foolishly challenged the brothers to fight but fled when Craggs brandished a knife. Paul apologised repeatedly while running but was tripped by Mark Craggs and overpowered. Philip Craggs then stabbed him three times. Paul staggered to Alfred Street, collapsed, spent over two weeks in a coma, and died on February 28, 2008.
Pleaded guilty to murder. Parole Board directed release following a hearing earlier this month.
Mark Craggs
Affray *
Sentence
21 months imprisonment
Mark Craggs, twin brother of Philip Craggs, was involved in the incident on February 13, 2008, on Welbeck Road in Walker, Newcastle, where Paul Gilbert accidentally bumped into the brothers. Paul challenged them to fight but fled. Mark Craggs tripped Paul, enabling Philip to catch up and stab him three times, leading to Paul's death on February 28, 2008.
Admitted affray; court heard he tripped the victim, allowing his brother to catch and kill him.
January 2006 1 case
Peter Voisey
Rape *
Sentence
life imprisonment with a minimum of 10 years
On December 27, 2005, Peter Voisey crept into a home in Willington Quay, Wallsend, North Tyneside, and abducted a six-year-old girl from the bath where she was playing with toys. He covered her mouth to prevent her from calling out to her mother, forced her into his red Vauxhall Astra car, and subjected her to two horrific sex attacks during a 15-minute ordeal before dumping her naked and crying in a dark, freezing back lane on Armstrong Road. The victim was found by local resident Geoffrey Brown, who heard her cries and brought her inside before calling the police. Voisey was linked to the crime via partial shoe prints on the wet bathroom floor and his diary entry reading 'Phew, it’s over. Chill now.' His alibi of buying cannabis collapsed as friends refused to corroborate it. The crime traumatized the victim and cast fear over the Willington Quay community.
Found guilty by jury. Judge David Hodson warned he might never be released. Currently facing sixth parole hearing in February 2026.

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

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

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

About Newcastle Crown Court

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

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

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

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

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

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