Newcastle Crown Court Sentencing Results

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

Robi Kingswell

Conspiracy to supply Class A drugs

January 8, 2026

Sentence: 6 years imprisonment

Robi Kingswell, 35, of Whitgrave Road, Newcastle, conspired with others to supply 11 kilos of cocaine, valued at over £385,000, across the North East between March and June 2020. The group used Encrochat encrypted messaging to hide their activities. Kingswell served as a storeman and courier, with the operation uncovered during Operation Venetic. He was arrested in April 2021 and charged in March 2026.

Ryan Jelley

Attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child

January 8, 2026

Sentence: 12 months custody, suspended for 18 months

Ryan Jelley, 32, of Westbourne Avenue, Walker, was convicted of one count of attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child, three charges of making an indecent photograph or pseudophotograph of a child, one count of possession of a prohibited image of a child, and possession of an extreme photographic image portraying an act of intercourse with an animal, understood to be a dog.

Victoria Murray

Unlawful wounding

January 8, 2026

Sentence: 8 months imprisonment

On December 8 in Newcastle city centre on Percy Street, Victoria Murray, who was drunk, grabbed a drunk male victim by the arm, threw him to the ground near a brick wall, and smashed a Newcastle Brown Ale bottle over his head. The victim was left stumbling, holding his head, covered in alcohol, and requiring stitches for a head wound, though he had no recollection of the incident. Murray claimed the man threatened to kill her and punched her, but CCTV did not confirm this. Bottles of Newcastle Brown Ale were found at the scene, and a police officer witnessed the attack.

Pleaded guilty to unlawful wounding. Recorder Richard Stubbs noted it was surprising to see a graduate fall from grace. Defendant is a psychology graduate who became a homeless alcoholic after being a victim of an attack, has mental health problems, and 15 prior offences.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Stephen Scott

Sexual Assault

January 7, 2026

Sentence: 4 years and 3 months imprisonment

Stephen Scott, 26, of Alder Walk, South Shields, sexually assaulted a teenager while she slept in South Tyneside. The victim reported the abuse to police, leading to Scott being charged in October 2023. The predatory actions left the victim feeling broken, lost, and in constant pain, with the incident expected to affect her for life. She received support from family, friends, and a counsellor.

Pleaded guilty to three counts of sexual assault. Placed on the Sex Offenders' Register for life and handed a restraining order to protect the victim.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Paul Hogarth

Conspiracy to supply cocaine

January 7, 2026

Sentence: 7 years imprisonment

Between January 2021 and January 2023, Paul Hogarth ran a street-level drug supply business dealing in cocaine and heroin, assisted by runner Natalie Garrett. In January 2023, police raided his home in Wrekenton, Gateshead, where he attempted to jump out of an upstairs window with a black bag and flush drugs down the sink. Officers found cocaine and heroin worth up to £2,000, £7,000 in cash, and weapons including a knuckle duster. Financial investigations revealed over £83,000 deposited into his bank account over two years, with £32,000 from benefits and the rest unexplained, including £10,000 transferred from Garrett over two months.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply cocaine, possessing cocaine and heroin with intent to supply, possessing criminal property, and possessing a knuckle duster. Has 20 previous convictions. Recorder Mark McKone noted that Class A drugs destroy lives and those who trade in them must expect long prison sentences. Defence stated he has a drug problem and it was a small-scale operation.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Kier Adam-Nuhoglo

GBH with intent

January 7, 2026

Sentence: 4.5 years imprisonment

In October 2025, Kier Adam-Nuhoglo launched an unprovoked attack on a sports coach outside Rusty's bar in Newcastle city centre around 3.30am. After shouting aggressively and shaking hands with the victim, he punched him more than 20 times to the head and face, fracturing his jaw in two places. The victim required surgery to fit metal plates, was on a liquid diet for days and soft foods for weeks, and was unable to participate in sports for at least three months. While on court bail, Adam-Nuhoglo committed further offences against his ex-partner, including controlling or coercive behaviour, burglary, and strangulation.

Pleaded guilty to GBH with intent, controlling or coercive behaviour, burglary, strangulation, dangerous driving, having no licence and having no insurance. Has 11 previous convictions. Also received a 41 month driving ban and a five year restraining order. Now on medication for long-term bipolar and regrets his actions.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Kristopher Follos

Conspiracy to cause explosions

January 7, 2026

Sentence: 8 years imprisonment with extended licence of 3 years

On May 12, 2025, Kristopher Follos and an unidentified accomplice used an improvised explosive device to blow up a cash machine at Hedgley Service Station in Powburn, Northumberland, which contained £14,860. They packed the ATM with the IED, lit it with a cigarette lighter, and sheltered behind an Audi A3 on false plates before the explosion. The blast caused £5,000 in damage but failed to access the cash drawers, leaving them empty-handed. Police searched his home at Olivers Mill, Morpeth, where they found three additional viable IEDs, leading to evacuation and army intervention. Follos admitted to the Powburn attack and two similar failed ATM explosions in southern England in July and August 2024, causing thousands in damage. Evidence from his phone showed research on ATMs, explosions, and cash in transit robberies.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to cause explosions of a nature likely to endanger life or cause serious injury to property, conspiracy to steal and making explosive substances with intent. Has 28 previous convictions, including bank robbery and possession of imitation firearm in 2001 for which he was jailed for 7 years. Made full admissions to police, including involvement in two similar offences in the south of England.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Kaab Ishaque

Failing to stop after an accident and driving with no insurance

January 7, 2026

Sentence: 6 months driving ban, £120 fine, £85 costs, £48 victim surcharge

On June 28, 2025, Kaab Ishaque, aged 19, was driving a BMW uninsured on Kingsway in Fenham, Newcastle upon Tyne, when he collided with a parked VW vehicle, causing £9,000 worth of damage to the passenger side. The impact woke the owner, who discovered the damage. Ishaque fled the scene and drove home to Bolbec Road, where police tracked and arrested him. The victim temporarily lost her vehicle, her lifeline for getting out of the house.

Pleaded guilty to failing to stop after an accident and driving with no insurance. No past convictions. Father reimbursed victim £9,000 for damage.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Natalie Garrett

Conspiracy to supply cocaine

January 7, 2026

Sentence: 46 months imprisonment and 3-year driving ban

Between January 2021 and January 2023, Natalie Garrett acted as a trusted runner and distributor for Paul Hogarth's street-level drug supply operation involving cocaine. Financial records showed she transferred over £10,000 to Hogarth over a two-month period. She also committed separate driving offences including dangerous driving at 86mph in a 30 zone, driving while disqualified, and drug driving.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply cocaine, dangerous driving (including 86mph in a 30 zone), driving while disqualified, and drug driving. Has two previous convictions for driving offences. Did not receive a large amount of money in addition to drugs received.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Daniel Ghazal

Causing bodily injury by wilful misconduct or neglect

January 6, 2026

Sentence: community order with 150 hours unpaid work and £500 costs

On November 19, 2022, Daniel Ghazal, driving a Suzuki Swift, became aggressive and impatient towards a group of around 12 cyclists riding two abreast on a road near Dinnington, Newcastle. He continuously blasted his horn, made hand gestures while overtaking, then pulled in front of them too close and braked abruptly, causing the cyclists to brake sharply. This led to experienced cyclist Peter Harrison, aged 65, falling off his bike at the back of the group and suffering soft tissue injuries and bruising. Ghazal did not stop at the scene.

Pleaded guilty. Judge Julie Clemitson noted lack of understanding of cyclists' vulnerability and no confidence from pre-sentence report that he appreciates the inappropriateness of his driving.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Nayer Youakim

Causing serious injury by dangerous driving

January 5, 2026

Sentence: 18 months imprisonment suspended for 2 years, 250 hours unpaid work, £150 costs, 2 year driving ban with extended test

On November 24, 2024, just before midnight, Nayer Youakim drove onto the wrong side of Beach Road in North Shields, North Tyneside, while over twice the drink drive limit (72 micrograms of alcohol per 100ml of breath). He smashed head-on into a taxi, causing the driver serious injuries including a fractured shoulder and arm, swollen hip, and suspected broken ribs. The taxi spun into the opposite side of the road, and Youakim's vehicle ended up on the pavement. He appeared dazed and under the influence, claiming he had only 'two pints' and that the other vehicle came into his path. The victim was hospitalised and expressed anger but relief at surviving.

Recorder Mark McKone KC considered his role as an ear, nose and throat registrar performing surgery in three hospitals, lack of previous convictions, and potential harm to future patients if imprisoned. Admitted causing serious injury by dangerous driving and drink driving. Genuine remorse shown.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

John Rutter

Assault occasioning actual bodily harm

January 5, 2026

Sentence: 12 months suspended for 12 months with a five-month electronically monitored curfew between 7pm and 7am

John Rutter assaulted a man he had dated in the past at Switch bar in Newcastle city centre in the early hours of New Year's Day 2024. The incident occurred after Rutter, who had just been dumped by his lover, overheard the victim speaking to another man about their past dates. Rutter approached the victim aggressively while dancing, grabbed him by the throat, punched him multiple times in the face, leading to a fall that dislocated the victim's shoulder. The victim also suffered bruising to his face, scratches to his head and below his eye, and tenderness to his tooth. Door staff intervened, and Rutter was ejected. The victim reported feeling self-conscious, anxious, and depressed.

Pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Former soldier who struggled with his sexuality and has children. Incident described as out of character with clear remorse.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Richard Kell

Theft by employee

January 3, 2026

Sentence: 18 months imprisonment, suspended for 2 years, 250 hours unpaid work

Richard Kell, a 40-year-old DHL driver from Hedgehope Road, Newcastle, stole 34 iPhone 16 Pro Max handsets worth over £1,500 each, totaling £52,326, which he was supposed to deliver to customers in February 2025. He sold them for £100 each to a male contact at one of the delivery addresses in Newcastle, profiting £3,400. Customers complained about non-delivery, leading to an investigation where Kell initially denied the theft but then confessed.

Admitted theft by employee. No prior convictions for dishonesty. Character references provided. Has new employment. Judge commented on resorting to dishonesty due to debt.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Anthony Jarrett

Burglary

December 31, 2025

Sentence: jailed

Anthony Jarrett, 48, was caught on CCTV stealing a packet of crisps from a vulnerable woman's home after she refused his demand for £10.

48, caught on CCTV stealing a packet of crisps from a vulnerable woman's home after she refused his £10 demand.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

George Smith

Assault

December 28, 2025

Sentence: jailed

George Smith, of North Shields, attacked a man who was washing his car, leaving him lying on the ground with numb legs after 'snapping'.

Attacked the victim after 'snapping' while the victim was washing his car, leaving him lying on the ground with numb legs.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Victoria Harbertson

Unlawful wounding

December 26, 2025

Sentence: 10 months suspended for two years with 150 hours unpaid work and an alcohol abstinence monitoring requirement

In July 2023, Victoria Harbertson, appearing intoxicated, along with two other females, unlawfully entered the victim's home in Blyth without permission. Harbertson falsely accused the victim of sleeping with her boyfriend and giving him drugs. When the victim returned from a shop and tried to enter her home, the trio attacked her, punching her repeatedly to the head and face, kicking her in the back of the head after she fell to the ground, and hitting her over the forehead with a mug three times. The attack ended due to intervention by a man and others nearby. The victim suffered two lacerations to her forehead, a cut and swollen lip, head wounds requiring closure, a tender nose, and a headache, requiring hospital treatment. She reported feeling terrified, unsafe in her home, unable to go out alone, in pain, and with worsened mental health issues.

Pleaded guilty. No previous convictions. Judge Tom Moran commented on the drunken assault and intervention by others. Five-year restraining order imposed. Defendant is now drink and drug-free, ashamed, and has expressed remorse.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Devon Brown

Murder

December 24, 2025

Sentence: Life imprisonment with minimum 26 years

Devon Brown, 30, murdered Okechukwu Iweha, 46, last year using a machete near a football stadium.

Richard Redhead

Burglary

December 23, 2025

Sentence: 3 years and 4 months imprisonment

Richard Redhead, 37, of Clavering Road, Swalwell, carried out a spree of burglaries in the Swalwell, Dunston, and Whickham areas of Gateshead in April and May 2025. On April 17, he forced entry to premises in Swalwell and stole drinks, a charity collection tin, and a till containing £180 cash. On April 25, he stole a lawnmower engine motor and a bin bag full of unknown items from premises in Dunston. On April 26, he smashed into a property in Swalwell and stole an iPad, cans of soft drink, and a pencil case, returning multiple times including on May 10 when he stole a TV from a communal lounge. On May 11 in Whickham, he used a concrete slab to smash a window and stole meat and butter worth £105. On May 18, he stole cash, computers, and phones valued at £4,500. Northumbria Police investigated and connected the crimes to him.

Pleaded guilty to eight counts of burglary and one count of theft. Prolific burglar whose actions caused distress in the community.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Wayne Kilty

Wounding with intent

December 23, 2025

Sentence: 64 months imprisonment with 30-month extended licence

On October 10, Wayne Kilty, 43, of Stafford Street, Sunderland, entered a Chinese restaurant in Sunderland and demanded free food. When refused and told to leave, he threw a plastic visor at the staff member. He then pulled the victim outside, repeatedly punched him while on the ground, and bit off the top of his ear, resulting in a broken nose and the need for plastic surgery and ongoing treatment. Kilty was affected by substance abuse at the time and claimed poor eyesight led him to fear attack, but did not leave.

Admitted wounding with intent. Recorder Mark Giuliani noted Kilty poses a high risk to the public. Has previous convictions. Deeply ashamed; suffers from poor vision due to ammonia attack and cataracts, bereavement, and trauma; uses drink and substances to cope.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Stuart Dickson

Assault occasioning actual bodily harm

December 23, 2025

Sentence: 22 months imprisonment

On May 5, 2025, Stuart Dickson, aged 33, of Deanery Street, Bedlington, assaulted his partner of four to five months after they had been drinking together. He became angry when an alcohol order was cancelled, leading him to slap and punch her multiple times to the face and body, causing bruising and reddening. He then grabbed her to the floor and stood on her neck with his foot, restricting her breathing to the point she feared losing consciousness and believed he would kill her. He threatened to kill her and her family, and attempted to take her to his brother's address. They went to a Shell garage where the victim sought help from a shop assistant who locked her in for safety. Police were called, and Dickson was arrested.

Pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Has 31 previous convictions. Given an indefinite restraining order. Alcohol issues noted by defence.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

John Rispin

Assault

December 22, 2025

Sentence: 13 months imprisonment

John Rispin, 36, of Birch Terrace, Walker, Newcastle, assaulted his girlfriend on June 12, 2025, while subject to bail conditions banning him from contacting her following an earlier arrest. The victim made a 999 call reporting the assault, and police found significant injuries to her neck and arm caused by force. The victim stated she feels unsafe and fears he will kill her one day.

Admitted assault. Sentenced by Recorder Paul Reid. Had been drinking excessively at the time but has since broken that pattern while in custody. Victim did not wish for a restraining order.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Lawrence Smeatham

Sexual activity with a person with a mental disorder impeding choice

December 22, 2025

Sentence: 16 months imprisonment

Lawrence Smeatham targeted an elderly dementia sufferer in her own home, kissing, cuddling, fondling her, exposing himself, and telling her he had previously had sex with her. The acts were captured on CCTV installed by the victim's daughter to check on her frail mother. The daughter discovered the abuse when reviewing the footage, describing it as horrific and a living nightmare. The victim appeared unaware due to her condition, which left her with the naivety of a child and trusting of anyone. Smeatham was arrested, initially denied the activity but pleaded guilty after seeing the CCTV.

Pleaded guilty. Must sign the sex offenders register indefinitely, subject to a sexual harm prevention order and a restraining order. Judge noted he took advantage of the victim's dementia, prioritised his own sexual gratification, has no internal control of urges, and presents a high risk to vulnerable women and girls. Remorseful, no convictions since the 1990s.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Leon Curran

Sexual assault

December 21, 2025

Sentence: 9 months imprisonment

In September 2024, Leon Curran, aged 33, from Rowanberry Road, Longbenton, North Tyneside, approached a 16-year-old girl from behind as she left a North Tyneside Metro station. He commented on the shortness of her skirt, lifted it up, and groped her bottom. The victim argued with him, filmed the incident on her mobile phone, and uploaded the video to Facebook, leading to his identification. Curran later contacted police complaining about threats received due to the circulated footage, during which he admitted making a derogatory comment about the victim's appearance. He was arrested and made further inappropriate remarks to police about the victim's clothing. The assault caused significant anxiety to the victim, affecting her use of public transport.

Pleaded guilty to sexual assault. Has seven previous convictions, including for domestic violence. Must sign the sex offenders register for 10 years and was given a five-year restraining order. Judge commented on the brazen nature of the assault and emphasized women's right to dress as they please without unwanted touching.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Garry Miller

Shop theft

December 21, 2025

Sentence: 1 day in police detention

Garry Miller, 31, of no fixed abode, stole £51-worth of festive chocolate from Fenwick's Christmas Shop in Newcastle City Centre. He was spotted by a store employee hiding the items in his jacket and walking out without paying. Police were called for an unrelated matter and informed of the theft, leading to his arrest. The incident occurred earlier in the week before his court appearance.

Pleaded guilty to shop theft. Has 143 prior offences, including 45 for theft. Was on post-sentence supervision. Released immediately as time already served. Owes over £8,000 to the courts.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Sophia Johnson

Assault occasioning actual bodily harm

December 20, 2025

Sentence: 12 months imprisonment suspended for 18 months

Sophia Johnson, 50, of Beatrice Street, Ashington, repeatedly punched the victim during an attack in January 2023, continuing to hit her after she fell to the ground. The assault resulted in cuts, bruises, three front teeth knocked out, rib pain for six weeks, and the need for dentures. The victim avoided visiting her dying father due to her injuries and reported a loss of confidence in a victim impact statement. Johnson believed she was initially defending herself but the violence exceeded that.

Pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Has 37 previous convictions including for violence. Five-year restraining order imposed. Judge Tim Gittins noted the assault was unpleasant, sustained, and went beyond self-defence. Defence highlighted significant trauma in her life and that custody has been a wake-up call.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Shelley Richardson

Conveying a banned article into prison

December 19, 2025

Sentence: 16 months suspended for 18 months

On March 23, 2024, Shelley Richardson, 55, of Saxon Way, Jarrow, South Tyneside, smuggled Class A drugs into HMP Northumberland by hiding them in her vagina. She was pressured into doing so by associates in a pub for money due to her heroin addiction. CCTV captured her removing the package from her trousers and placing it on a table during a visit, where an inmate picked it up. She was stopped by prison staff, admitted to the drugs, and was interviewed by police. The inmate was strip-searched but the drugs were not found.

Pleaded guilty to conveying a banned article into prison. Pressured and exploited due to heroin addiction. Has been drug-free for several months, shown remorse. Over 100 previous convictions.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Mya Mounter

Conspiracy to pervert the course of justice

December 19, 2025

Sentence: 21 weeks suspended for 18 months with rehabilitation requirements

Mya Mounter was present in a flat during the murder of Sean Mason by her father Wayne Froud and Steven Milroy in the early hours of May 16, 2020, in Penshaw, Sunderland. After the attack, she left with her father, changed her clothes, and conspired with Geoffrey Hughes and Fiona Clough to dispose of her blood-stained top by burning it to avoid implicating her in the murder.

No prior convictions, mental health problems at the time, has a young family. Father Wayne Froud was involved in the murder.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Geoffrey Hughes

Conspiracy to pervert the course of justice

December 19, 2025

Sentence: 42 weeks suspended for 2 years with mental health treatment and rehabilitation requirements

Geoffrey Hughes assisted Mya Mounter and Fiona Clough in disposing of Mounter's blood-stained clothing after the murder of Sean Mason by Wayne Froud and Steven Milroy on May 16, 2020, in Penshaw, Sunderland. The trio conspired to burn the top to prevent it from implicating Mounter in the crime.

Also admitted unrelated charge of dangerous driving. Now working, settled with partner and family, considered Froud a scary man and moved out of the area temporarily.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Ian Boyd

Dangerous driving

December 19, 2025

Sentence: 14 months imprisonment

On November 18, Ian Boyd, of Slatyford, ignored police signals to pull over in a BMW in Blyth and led a high-speed chase across North East roads. He reached 90mph in a 30 zone, went through a red light, lost control at Moor Farm Roundabout on the A189 driving the wrong way, hit 100mph on the A19, and 140mph on the A1. The pursuit ended in Fenham after police used a tactical manoeuvre; he attempted to flee again but was arrested. He refused a sample and possessed small amounts of cocaine and cannabis.

Pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, failing to provide a specimen, driving while disqualified, having no insurance and possessing cocaine and cannabis. Has 31 previous convictions, including for driving offences, and was on bail pending sentence for other driving matters. Banned from driving for three years upon release. Judge commented it was a 'dreadful piece of driving'. Defence noted life had spiralled out of control after father's death from dementia in February, leading to excessive alcohol use; now alcohol and drug free in custody with job lined up in January.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Fiona Clough

Conspiracy to pervert the course of justice

December 19, 2025

Sentence: 28 weeks suspended for 2 years with 100 hours unpaid work and rehabilitation requirements

Fiona Clough assisted Mya Mounter and Geoffrey Hughes in disposing of Mounter's blood-stained clothing after the murder of Sean Mason by Wayne Froud and Steven Milroy on May 16, 2020, in Penshaw, Sunderland. The group used Clough's car and later burned the top, as confirmed in messages sent by Clough.

Had a fear of Froud, did not understand the gravity of the situation at the time, has caring responsibilities and has stayed out of trouble since.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Dylan Finlay

Assault by beating and criminal damage

December 19, 2025

Sentence: £200 fine, £100 compensation, £85 costs, £80 victim surcharge

On June 20, 2025, Dylan Finlay, aged 22, of St Peter's Road in Byker, became angry with his girlfriend after she messaged her dad, suspecting infidelity. He threatened to smash her house up, called her abusive names, kicked a baby gate off its hinges, hit a cupboard causing a crack, emptied a bin over the kitchen floor and walls, and slammed the front door against her back as she tried to leave. The victim felt emotionally drained and wanted him to leave her alone.

Pleaded guilty to assault by beating and criminal damage. Had one prior conviction for possession of a bladed article in 2024, for which he received a suspended sentence. Defence stated he suspected partner was cheating and did not intend to assault her with the door.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

James Barrass

Rape

December 18, 2025

Sentence: 24 years imprisonment

James Barrass, 37, of Priory Grange, Blyth, Northumberland, was convicted of a series of offences against two women, including rape, attempted sexual assault, and assault by penetration. The attacks had a devastating impact on the victims, with one suffering night terrors, flashbacks, daily panic attacks, and severe mental health issues. The victim described him as a 'narcissist and a pathological liar' with no remorse, only sorry for being caught.

Found guilty by jury after trial. Must serve two-thirds behind bars. Judge Penny Moreland described him as 'extremely dangerous' and posing a significant risk of serious harm to the public. Pre-sentence report noted he minimises and distorts his offending and places responsibility on victims. Must sign sex offenders register for life and given indefinite restraining orders.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Callum Hackett

Assault occasioning actual bodily harm

December 17, 2025

Sentence: 20 months imprisonment

Callum Hackett subjected his then-partner to a sustained and sickening assault in Newcastle, which escalated from an argument and spilled into the street. He grabbed her by the hair, pulled out her hair extensions, forced her to the floor, kicked and punched her, and mercilessly beat her face with a metal deodorant can. Part of the attack was captured on video, showing him shouting while she screamed. A neighbour heard the argument, and the woman tried to seek refuge but was followed and attacked. She suffered bruising to her face, a deformed nose, and lost a tooth, leaving her distraught and covered in blood. After the assault, Hackett sent her unpleasant messages and tried to blame her for the argument.

Pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Branded a 'coward' by Judge Tim Gittins for attacking a defenceless woman in front of distressed children. Has six previous convictions including arson, affray, possessing an offensive weapon, and supplying class B drugs. Given a restraining order. Long-standing mental health difficulties noted.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Connor Dunford

Assaulting an emergency worker

December 17, 2025

Sentence: 16 months imprisonment

On October 12, 2025, Connor Dunford, 27, of Aire Quay, Leeds, was under the influence of drugs including ketamine, cocaine, and alcohol after a binge at a hotel in Jesmond, Newcastle. He was restrained by friends and shouting when an ambulance was called. After being sedated and transported to the Royal Victoria Infirmary (RVI) in Newcastle, he punched a female ambulance support technician in the face while she was explaining the procedure to move him from a stretcher to a hospital bed, causing her a nose bleed and pain. The incident occurred due to his drug-induced state following personal setbacks including the death of his former partner and an ACL injury that affected his work and rugby playing.

Pleaded guilty to assaulting an emergency worker. Was subject to a suspended sentence at the time. Judge Gavin Doig commented that the defendant deserves to go straight to prison for punching an ambulance support practitioner who was trying to help him.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Chloe Warwick

Robbery

December 17, 2025

Sentence: jailed

Chloe Warwick, of Sunderland, robbed and stole from a vulnerable neighbour at the supported accommodation where she and the victim were living, threatening to falsely brand him a pervert.

Stephen Plant

Rape

December 17, 2025

Sentence: 15 years imprisonment

Stephen Plant, 24, of Washington, committed multiple sexual offences. He was found guilty of three counts of rape and two counts of sexual assault against a woman earlier in 2025 following a Northumbria Police investigation, where he raped and assaulted his victim several times. Separately, a Durham Constabulary investigation revealed that when Plant was 16, he met a girl in public places multiple times, gave her alcohol, and had her perform sexual acts on him, leading to his admission of four counts of sexual activity with a girl aged 13 to 15. The victim in the first case reported the abuse to police.

Found guilty of three counts of rape and two counts of sexual assault on a woman. Admitted four counts of sexual activity with a girl aged 13 to 15. Described as 'extremely dangerous' by police.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Paul Mullen

Robbery

December 16, 2025

Sentence: 5 years and 7 months imprisonment

On July 15, 2025, Paul Mullen followed a 76-year-old pensioner from West Jesmond Metro Station into a back alley near The Lonsdale pub in Jesmond after the victim had been out in Newcastle. Mullen attacked from behind by putting a wire, similar to a charging cable, around the victim's neck, which the victim pulled away. Mullen then beat the victim to the ground, kicking and stamping on him, including to the head. The victim fought back by punching Mullen. Mullen stole the victim's mobile phone, bank cards, Metro and bus pass, Tesco Clubcard, tobacco, house keys, and a card holder with family pictures and a prayer card. He demanded and received the PIN number, using a stolen card three times the next day. Items were later returned. The victim suffered an abrasion to the head but no serious injuries. The attack left the victim terrified, feeling cut off from family, and disrupted his life, requiring lock changes.

Pleaded guilty to robbery and fraud. Has 133 previous convictions. Relapsed into drug use at the time. Shown genuine remorse and feels shame.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

James Wheeler

Assault by penetration and sexual assault

December 16, 2025

Sentence: 11 years imprisonment

James Wheeler, 48, of Bishopton Road, Stockton, subjected a vulnerable woman to sickening sex attacks in Northumberland. He intimidated her by threatening violence, standing on her feet, gripping her arms, and telling her he knew nasty people. The victim now rarely leaves the house without company, suffers from fear of encountering him, recurring nightmares, and has attempted self-harm due to the trauma.

Convicted after trial of six offences of assault by penetration and two of sexual assault. Must serve two-thirds in prison, sign the sex offenders register for life, and subject to an indefinite restraining order. Continues to deny wrongdoing.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Ryan Dodd

Inflicting GBH

December 15, 2025

Sentence: 30 months imprisonment

On September 13, 2025, around 4.45am, Ryan Dodd, aged 27, of Coppice Way, Shieldfield, Newcastle, punched Mason Hedley in the face in a tunnel under a road in Newcastle city centre as Mason was leaving Powerhouse nightclub after celebrating his 18th birthday. The punch knocked Mason unconscious, causing him to crack his head on the ground, resulting in a traumatic brain injury and skull fracture. Mason required life-saving surgery to remove both sides of his skull to prevent brain death, was placed on life support, and now suffers lifelong effects including mobility and speech issues, memory loss, unsteadiness, difficulty processing information, fear in public, and a visible scar. The attack stemmed from an argument between Dodd and one of Mason's friends, with Dodd acting as the aggressor despite Mason doing nothing wrong. Dodd left the scene in a taxi but was identified via an anonymous tip-off.

Pleaded guilty to inflicting GBH. Has 26 previous convictions including affray, racially aggravated assault, battery and burglary. Under the influence of alcohol at the time. Expressed remorse and has no recollection of the incident.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Stefan Ciuraru

Sexual Assault

December 12, 2025

Sentence: 18 months imprisonment

Stefan Ciuraru, 23, of Brinkburn Avenue, Gateshead, carried out offences between 2015 and 2019 against vulnerable girls aged 13 to 16 in the Gateshead area. He sexually assaulted four girls, engaged in sexual activity with a child, and incited a child to engage in sexual activity, exploiting their unhappy home lives and providing alcohol or cigarettes for favours.

Found guilty of four counts of sexual assault, one of sexual activity with a child and one of inciting a child to engage in sexual activity. Likely to be released due to time on remand and electronically monitored curfew. Was 15 and 16 at the time, from Romania, no schooling prior to UK. Must sign the sex offenders register and subject to sexual harm prevention order and restraining order.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Sean Reay

Murder

December 12, 2025

Sentence: life imprisonment

Sean Reay, along with Kelvin Lawson and Thomas Sterling, was involved in the shooting murder of Barry Dawson, who was shot through the broken window of his terraced home in Stanley on April 5, 2025, turning the street into a scene resembling something from TV.

Paul Logan

Rape and Sexual Assault

December 12, 2025

Sentence: 11 years and 6 months imprisonment

Paul Logan, aged 46, of Chirton Green in Blyth, raped and sexually assaulted a child. The victim reported the offences to Northumbria Police years later, leading to a complex investigation. Logan was charged last summer and convicted of all offences following a trial in October.

Convicted of two counts of rape and three counts of sexual assault. Denied wrongdoing in interview. Prior to sentencing, found guilty at trial in October.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Leonard Paun

Rape

December 12, 2025

Sentence: 5 years and 1 month imprisonment

Leonard Paun, 24, of Windsor Avenue, Gateshead, from Romania, offended between 2015 and 2019 against vulnerable girls aged 13 to 16 in the Gateshead area. He supplied class A drugs and exploited the girls' vulnerabilities, with some incidents involving heavy drinking in a park. The victims had unhappy home lives and were dependent on defendants.

Found guilty of one count of rape, one of sexual activity with a child, two counts of arranging the commission of a child sex offence, supplying a class A drug, sexual assault and distributing indecent images of a child. Was 16 and 17 at the time of offences. Must sign the sex offenders register and subject to sexual harm prevention order and restraining order.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Klaudio Aleksiu

Rape

December 12, 2025

Sentence: 6 years imprisonment

Klaudio Aleksiu, 28, of Church Terrace, Windsor, from Albania, committed offences between 2015 and 2019 against vulnerable girls aged 13 to 16 in the Gateshead area. He raped one girl, exploiting her vulnerabilities in a context of sexual exploitation involving alcohol, cigarettes, and drugs.

Convicted of one count of rape. Continues to deny offence. Of previous good character, has a young child. Must sign the sex offenders register and subject to sexual harm prevention order and restraining order.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Kelvin Lawson

Murder

December 12, 2025

Sentence: life imprisonment

Kelvin Lawson, along with Sean Reay and Thomas Sterling, was involved in the shooting murder of Barry Dawson, who was shot through the broken window of his terraced home in Stanley on April 5, 2025, turning the street into a scene resembling something from TV.

Henry Renton

Child Rape

December 12, 2025

Sentence: 15 years imprisonment

Henry Renton, an 81-year-old pensioner, was unmasked as a paedophile through a Sarah's Law application and convicted for striking again with child rapes in North East Northumberland.

Serving sentence for multiple child rapes; latest convictions likely mean he will die in prison.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Codrin Dura

Rape

December 12, 2025

Sentence: 13 years imprisonment

Codrin Dura, 27, of Rippon Street, Gateshead, carried out offences between 2015 and 2019 against vulnerable girls aged 13 to 16 in the Gateshead area. He had a sexually transmitted infection and had sex with one girl, blackmailed another by threatening to show her parents an intimate picture, and supplied class A drugs. The victims were exploited through alcohol, cigarettes, and drugs in exchange for sexual favours, some incidents occurring in a Tyneside park.

Found guilty of four counts of rape, one of attempted rape, three of sexual activity with a child, blackmail, assault by penetration, arranging the commission of a child sex offence and supplying class A drugs. Continues to deny offences. Must sign the sex offenders register and subject to sexual harm prevention order and restraining order.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Bogdan Gugiuman

Rape

December 12, 2025

Sentence: 14 years imprisonment

Bogdan Gugiuman, 44, of Westbourne Avenue, Gateshead, carried out offences between 2015 and 2019 against vulnerable girls aged 13 to 16 in the Gateshead area. He raped three girls and supplied class A drugs, exploiting their immaturity and desire for attention through alcohol and cigarettes in exchange for sexual favours.

Found guilty of three rapes and supplying class A drugs. Limited contact with other defendants except cousin Paun. Must sign the sex offenders register and subject to sexual harm prevention order and restraining order.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Thomas Sterling

Murder

December 12, 2025

Sentence: life imprisonment

Thomas Sterling, along with Sean Reay and Kelvin Lawson, was involved in the shooting murder of Barry Dawson, who was shot through the broken window of his terraced home in Stanley on April 5, 2025, turning the street into a scene resembling something from TV.

Philip Coats

Rape

December 11, 2025

Sentence: 7 years imprisonment

Philip Coats, aged 28 from Ingham Grange, South Shields, sexually abused two children when he was a schoolboy. He was convicted of two counts of rape and two counts of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity. He threatened one victim with pushing them down stairs and used his greater strength to overpower them. He told the other victim their mother wouldn't love them if they reported the abuse. The victims described lasting pain, fear, and emotional impact, including effects on schooling and trust issues.

Sentence reduced by around two-thirds due to being a child at the time of the offences. No prior convictions. Must sign the sex offenders register, subject to a sexual harm prevention order and a restraining order. Continues to deny the offences.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

No sentences found matching your search.