Newcastle Crown Court Sentencing Results

Explore 182 verdicts at Newcastle Crown Court (Newcastle upon Tyne). Updated with the latest court outcomes.

Sam Garbutt

Intentional strangulation

June 23, 2025

Sentence: 2 years and 3 months imprisonment

On January 11, 2024, Sam Garbutt became verbally aggressive towards his then-partner while she was watching TV. He put both hands around her neck and squeezed tightly, causing her to struggle to breathe. He then covered her mouth with one hand while maintaining his grip on her throat. She bit his hand to escape, but he squeezed harder before she managed to get away and call emergency services. The incident was recorded on her phone, which was described as 'harrowing'. The victim suffered pain in her neck for weeks, experienced flashbacks, and struggled with trust issues.

Pleaded guilty to intentional strangulation. No previous convictions. Described his actions as 'odious and repugnant' and expressed remorse. A ten-year restraining order was imposed.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Stephen Denison

Failing to comply with the sex offenders' register

June 22, 2025

Sentence: 4 months imprisonment

Stephen Denison, a registered sex offender, was released from prison on June 6, 2025, but failed to notify the police of his address by June 9, 2025, and was found in possession of a new bank card that he had not registered. This breach occurred despite his prior history of sexual assaults, including groping a schoolgirl at a bus stop in 2021 and attempting to hug and kiss a woman in a church. He was located by officers on June 18, 2025, leading to his court appearance.

Pleaded guilty to two counts of failing to comply with the sex offenders' register. He has previous convictions for the same offence and has not engaged with the Probation Service. The judge noted his history of non-compliance and the need to manage his risk.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Terrence Mackell

Shop theft

June 21, 2025

Sentence: 10 weeks imprisonment

Terrence Mackell, a 37-year-old with no fixed abode, was released from prison earlier in June 2025. Just two weeks later, on June 16, 2025, he entered Fenwick department store in Newcastle city centre and stole £485-worth of aftershave. He was detained by store security, and the goods were recovered. This incident occurred while he was on licence and under a conditional discharge for previous theft offences, marking another in his pattern of prolific thefts blighting local businesses.

Pleaded guilty to shop theft and breaching a conditional discharge. The judge noted the offence involved some degree of planning and highlighted his extensive record of theft offences, including prior recalls on his jail sentence.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Stephen Adams

Arranging a child sex offence

June 20, 2025

Sentence: 2 years and 4 months imprisonment

Stephen Adams, 25, of Blackpool Parade, Hebburn, sent a Snapchat friend request to an undercover police officer posing as a 14-year-old boy. Between November 6 and 12, he engaged in highly sexual conversations, discussed meeting for sex, and asked questions such as whether the boy was okay with the age difference and how to sneak out. He suggested meeting at the boy's home while his mother was at work and requested photographs of the boy's pants. Adams arranged to meet the 'boy' and was arrested upon arrival at the location.

Pleaded guilty to attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child and arranging a child sex offence. Judge stated he was aware of the wrongdoing and likely had a sexual interest in children. Defence cited stress, depression, and the recent death of his grandmother as contributing factors. Must sign the sex offenders register and be subject to a sexual harm prevention order for 10 years.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Daniel Percy

Possessing a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence

June 20, 2025

Sentence: 2 years and 4 months imprisonment

On March 7, Daniel Percy argued with his father over the phone, threatening to kill him, and then arrived at his parents' home in Walbottle, Newcastle, with a loaded air pistol. He banged on the door, appeared to load the weapon, and made threats, causing his father to fear for his life. Percy was arrested after driving away, and the air pistol was found ready to fire with a pellet in the barrel.

Pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence and sending a threatening message. Has autism and mental health issues, no prior convictions, and expressed remorse. Intended to cause fear but not physical harm.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Darren Weatherson

Sexual assault

June 20, 2025

Sentence: 4 months imprisonment

Darren Weatherson, who was admitted to hospital in an intoxicated state and withdrawing from alcohol, sexually assaulted a nurse by grabbing her between the legs while she was replacing a cannula in his arm. The nurse, shocked by the incident, pushed his hand away, described his actions as disgusting, and continued her duties professionally before informing a colleague. As a result, staff treated him in pairs to prevent further incidents. The assault caused the nurse distress, making her feel vulnerable when treating other men alone, which impacted her ability to perform her job.

Pleaded guilty to sexual assault. Has 68 previous convictions and is alcohol dependent. Judge Robert Spragg noted that only immediate custody was justified, highlighting the disrespect shown to nurses who work long hours in testing conditions.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Albert Jardine

Indecent Assault

June 19, 2025

Sentence: 8 months imprisonment, suspended for 18 months, and £3,000 towards prosecution costs

Albert Jardine, a serving police officer based in Newcastle, sexually assaulted a woman on multiple occasions in the early 1990s. He grabbed her from behind, pressed his aroused body against her, made thrusting motions as if having sex, uttered lewd comments and jokes, and on one occasion threw water on her blouse to create a wet T-shirt effect. The victim reported feeling humiliated and alone, and the assaults were initially investigated but not pursued at the time.

Convicted after trial; was a serving police officer who denied the charges; judge highlighted his abuse of trust and degrading behaviour; he retired on medical grounds and has a family including children, grandchildren, and a great-grandson.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Brandon Norton

Sexual assault

June 19, 2025

Sentence: 2 years imprisonment

Brandon Norton, 22, sexually assaulted a girl in a North Tyneside park after providing her with alcohol, leading to his conviction.

Richard Lisle

Possession of cocaine with intent to supply

June 19, 2025

Sentence: 2 years suspended for 18 months with 150 hours unpaid work

On December 28, 2021, Richard Lisle was stopped by police on Brinkburn Avenue, Gateshead, and found in possession of 43 wraps of cocaine worth more than £1,600 and over £1,200 in cash. Text messages on his phones showed evidence of drug dealing, including requests for drugs and complaints about quality. He had started dealing to fund his own addiction and pay off debts after losing his job in 2020 due to drug misuse.

Pleaded guilty to possessing cocaine with intent to supply and being concerned in the supply of cocaine. Has two previous convictions. The judge noted a realistic prospect of rehabilitation, that it has been three-and-a-half years since the offence, and that he has a son who needs his guidance.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Kevin Mcmahon

Drug dealing

June 19, 2025

Sentence: 8 years imprisonment

Kevin McMahon, 59, was involved in dealing cocaine and was caught as part of efforts to distribute the drug in the region.

Steven Rycroft

Rape

June 19, 2025

Sentence: 10 years and 5 months imprisonment

Steven Rycroft subjected a teenage girl to a terrifying sex attack in North Tyneside, leaving her traumatised. He issued death threats, telling her she would be killed if she told anyone. The victim described the incident as a day that changed her life forever, leaving her with lasting pain and fear.

Pleaded guilty to offences including rape and sexual assault. Also given a lifelong restraining order and must sign the sex offenders register for life. Judge commended the victim for her courage in fighting him off and continuing with her life.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

William Henderson

Indecent Assault and Sexual Assault

June 19, 2025

Sentence: 4 years and 10 months imprisonment

William Henderson sexually assaulted a girl in the 1990s by groping her while drunk, stopping only when she elbowed him. Nearly thirty years later, he sexually assaulted a boy of a similar age, stopping when the boy reported pain. The offences had profound effects on the victims, including nightmares, panic attacks, impacts on education, family, and feelings of shame and guilt.

Pleaded guilty to indecent assault and sexual assault. Judge Amanda Rippon noted the significant impact on victims. He must sign the sex offenders register and be subject to a sexual harm prevention order for life and a restraining order.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Steven Brownless

Conspiracy to supply cocaine

June 18, 2025

Sentence: 7 years and 2 months imprisonment

Steven Brownless assisted Michael Armstrong in a conspiracy to supply cocaine between March and April 2020. He used the EncroChat handle 'Odd Gorilla' and was responsible for transporting, storing, and adulterating 2.25 kilos of cocaine on behalf of Armstrong and others. He was arrested in April 2021 with approximately 6g of cocaine at his home, indicating ongoing involvement in drug dealing.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply cocaine and possessing cocaine with intent to supply. Acted as a courier for Michael Armstrong, involved in transporting, storing, and adulterating cocaine. Had mental health issues and was addicted to drugs at the time, with no offences since.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Michael Armstrong

Conspiracy to supply cocaine

June 18, 2025

Sentence: 10 years and 4 months imprisonment

Michael Armstrong was involved in a conspiracy to supply more than 4 kilos of cocaine and large amounts of cannabis between March and April 2020. He used the EncroChat handle 'Frosty Case' to communicate about drug deals, including buying and selling wholesale quantities. He was arrested in April 2021 and played a leading role in the operation, which involved sourcing cocaine and supplying it to others commercially.

Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply cocaine and conspiracy to supply cannabis. Had a leading role in sourcing and supplying drugs. Judge noted they thought they were untouchable. Defence mentioned a gambling problem and prior involvement in a scaffolding business.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Conner Brooke

Assault occasioning actual bodily harm

June 17, 2025

Sentence: 12 months imprisonment

Conner Brooke, after being released early on licence from a previous 16-month sentence for assaulting his partner, rekindled the relationship and resumed violent behaviour within days. Incidents included throwing her and her belongings out of his home while grabbing her face and pushing her, accusing her of cheating; further violence over subsequent weeks that left her with a black eye; pushing her at a Metro station causing her head to hit a board; and in March, going through her phone, slapping her, pushing her face against a wall, and causing bruising to her arms and legs. The victim reported constant fear and worsening behaviour.

Pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm, two counts of assault by beating, and criminal damage to a window. Has 22 previous convictions for violence, carrying weapons, and exposure. Judge Recorder Mark McKone KC expressed concern about a new relationship, which is now over, and noted that Brooke was previously using Spice but is now clean of the drug. Time served in custody will not count towards this sentence due to recall on a previous one.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Udkarsh Yadav

Burglary with intent to cause criminal damage

June 17, 2025

Sentence: 14 months imprisonment suspended for two years, with rehabilitation requirements, 200 hours unpaid work, and £117 compensation

Udkarsh Yadav broke into a fellow student's room at Trinity Square student accommodation in Gateshead using a key card that allowed access to all rooms. This occurred while the victim was home for Christmas. He carried out a sex act in the room, defiling the victim's bed cover and three Jellycat teddy bears, and was caught through DNA evidence. The victim, who was experiencing her first time away from home, was left shaken by the incident.

Pleaded guilty to the offence. Judge described the act as disgusting and selfish, noting the stress it caused the victim. Defending counsel stated the behaviour was out of character and that Yadav is a student with no prior convictions mentioned.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Ryan Callaghan

Rape

June 17, 2025

Sentence: 10 years imprisonment and ordered to sign the sex offenders register

Ryan Callaghan raped a vulnerable woman who had recently been released from hospital after self-harming. The attack occurred when she was in crisis, leaving her completely broken and contributing to her decision to take her own life shortly afterwards, particularly after inadvertently walking past his house during a family outing.

Found guilty by a jury of rape. Has two previous convictions for common assault. Judge commented that the victim's suicide was not the sole cause of her death, though it was a substantial element in her final weeks.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Adam Glover

Arson and Assault

June 16, 2025

Sentence: 2 years imprisonment

Adam Glover demanded £140 he claimed was owed to him by a man. On September 9, he went to the man's mother's house in Sunderland, squirted a liquid believed to be petrol into the man's eyes from a Lucozade Sport bottle, poured the liquid on the carpets while attempting to ignite it with a lighter, causing £600 in damage, and later set fire to another family member's BMW car as a revenge attack, resulting in £1,500 in damage to the vehicle's paintwork and plastics. The incident left the family feeling vulnerable and scared for their safety.

Admitted to arson and assault. Has 24 previous convictions. Judge described the incident as a terrifying experience for the family. Defence noted he has worked well in custody and has good references.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Kristofer Mawhinney

Controlling Behaviour

June 16, 2025

Sentence: 40 months imprisonment and a nine-year restraining order

Kristofer Mawhinney engaged in a three-year relationship where he initially showered the victim with affection but later became excessively jealous, controlling, and violent. He monitored her movements, accused her of cheating, and physically assaulted her on multiple occasions, including strangling her in a hotel in March and beating her in his home in July, which left her with bruising around both eyes and hair pulled out. He also entered her home uninvited, encouraged her to hide her injuries, and continued to contact her despite her attempts to end the relationship.

Pleaded guilty to controlling behaviour, intentional strangulation, and assault. Has 37 previous convictions. Judge described the offences as particularly serious and nasty. Defendant was addicted to crack cocaine at the time.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Liam Ellison

Handling stolen goods

June 14, 2025

Sentence: Six-month conditional discharge and suspended sentence operational period increased by three months

Liam Ellison was caught selling stolen goods from a burgled salon in Newcastle. The victim tracked her iPad and speakers, which were taken in the burglary, as Ellison sold them to a nearby city centre shop. He claimed he was not responsible for the burglary but agreed to sell the items for the actual burglar.

Adam Gallagher

Burglary

June 14, 2025

Sentence: Two years imprisonment

Adam Gallagher, wearing a balaclava, entered a property on Claremont Terrace in Blyth through an open window, terrifying a young autistic boy. He stole a bike from another insecure property during a crime spree on February 9, 2024.

Pleaded guilty to five counts of attempted burglary, one count of burglary, and one count of theft. Has 22 prior convictions for 33 offences.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Andrew Reveley

Burglary of a non-dwelling

June 14, 2025

Sentence: 12-month community order, £20 fine, and £310.95 compensation

Andrew Reveley targeted the same supermarket four times in four days, entering via an unlocked door and stealing chocolate worth £300. He also stole £76-worth of men's toiletries from another store a month later.

Pleaded guilty to burglary of a non-dwelling and four counts of shop theft. Has 52 prior offences.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Kevin Enright

Fraud by abuse of position

June 13, 2025

Sentence: 27 months imprisonment

Kevin Enright, employed as a business finance manager at St Leonard's Catholic School in County Durham, abused his position of trust to steal £129,160 between February 2019 and November 2020. He diverted funds from the school's banking system to his own accounts and those of his then-partner, using fake invoices from non-existent suppliers. This was driven by debts accrued from gambling and substance misuse issues after his marriage ended. The theft left the school with an £84,000 deficit, leading to staff redundancies, cuts in spending on books and equipment, and long-term impacts on pupil education and trust in authority.

Admitted fraud by abuse of position. Had no previous convictions and was dealing with depression, substance misuse, and gambling addiction following the breakdown of his marriage. Expressed deep regret and willingness to repay debts, though currently unable to do so.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Kai Bell

Meeting a child following grooming

June 13, 2025

Sentence: 6 years imprisonment

Kai Bell, of Saint Peters Road, Newcastle, sent explicit pictures and videos to decoys posing as 12-year-old girls and arranged to meet them with the intention of committing further offences. He was arrested in June 2024 and charged in September 2024 after breaching bail conditions. The offences involved communicating with multiple decoys from vigilante groups, believing them to be real children.

Pleaded guilty to 13 offences, including attempting to cause a child to watch sexual activity and meeting a child following grooming. Described as a dangerous predator by police. Will serve the first two months in a young offenders' institution, followed by four years on extended licence, and is subject to lifelong placement on the Sex Offenders' Register and a Sexual Harm Prevention Order.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Richie Jefferson

Unlawful wounding

June 12, 2025

Sentence: 2 years suspended sentence, 150 hours unpaid work, and £2,500 compensation

On December 26, 2023, Richie Jefferson, after consuming 16 double vodkas in three hours, launched an unprovoked and animalistic attack on a stranger in a busy pub in Blyth, Northumberland. The victim, who had been standing in the pub for about 20 minutes, was struck multiple times, resulting in severe facial injuries including a laceration to the forehead, a cut to the nose, a broken nose, and permanent scarring. The victim was covered in blood and has since experienced emotional distress, PTSD, fear of going out alone, and difficulties with daily activities like running and cycling due to breathing issues. There was no evidence of a weapon being used, though CCTV showed a flurry of blows.

Pleaded guilty to unlawful wounding. Had six prior convictions, including for criminal damage and stalking, and was on a community order at the time. The judge noted the attack was senseless and unprovoked, and the defendant expressed remorse, stating he no longer drinks alcohol and has reformed his life.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Edward Corbett

Theft

June 11, 2025

Sentence: 28 months imprisonment

Edward Corbett, who had Power of Attorney for his father Robert Corbett suffering from dementia, stole £189,586 over a five-and-a-half year period from 2017 to 2023. He transferred funds from his father's account to his own, withdrew cash, and took money from a casino to fund his gambling, alcohol, and drug addictions. The offending came to light in 2023 when Corbett disclosed it while seeking help for his addictions.

Pleaded guilty to theft. No previous convictions but had a caution for obtaining property by deception. Judge noted a breach of trust due to Power of Attorney, deliberate targeting of his dementia-suffering father, and the sustained period of offending over five-and-a-half years.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

David Vincent

Assault occasioning actual bodily harm

June 11, 2025

Sentence: 15 months suspended for two years with a three-month alcohol treatment requirement and a restraining order

David Vincent, while on police bail with conditions not to contact his partner, breached those conditions by contacting her via phone with both romantic and abusive messages. He then arrived at her home in Sunderland while intoxicated, refused to leave, became verbally abusive, pushed her in the chest, spat in her face, and banged her head against the bedroom wall, resulting in bruising, swelling, and a possible spinal fracture. The incident occurred in October 2024, leading to his arrest and subsequent sentencing.

Pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm and a public order offence. Has 109 previous convictions and a history of domestic violence. The victim does not support the prosecution, and he expressed remorse for his conduct.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Jonpaul Elessar

Voyeurism

June 10, 2025

Sentence: 20 months imprisonment

Jonpaul Elessar invited a vulnerable man, who was stranded and wearing only shorts, to his home in Washington. The man asked Elessar to turn off his cameras and was given a drink, after which he became unconscious, possibly due to drugs including GHB. While the victim was unconscious and naked, Elessar took a photograph of him, performed a sex act on him, and sent the image to another man. Police later found two indecent images of children on Elessar's phone. The victim reported feeling violated, humiliated, and emotionally harmed.

Pleaded guilty to voyeurism and possessing indecent images of children. Has a previous conviction from 2013 for possessing and distributing indecent images of children. Judge Sarah Mallet noted the emotional harm caused to the victim and that the image was taken for 'bragging rights'.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Richard French

Possession of cocaine with intent to supply

June 10, 2025

Sentence: Seven years and four months imprisonment

Richard French, 36, was stopped by police and found with £2 million worth of cocaine in his car.

Timothy Luckhurst-Matthews

Sexual Assault

June 10, 2025

Sentence: 10 months suspended for two years, must sign the sex offenders register for 10 years and pay £1,200 towards prosecution costs

Timothy Luckhurst-Matthews sexually assaulted a woman by putting his hand under her 'Jingle my Bells' Christmas jumper, under her bra, and grabbing and squeezing her breast to the point of pain. The incident occurred in the presence of another witness, who saw the assault. The victim was in shock and immediately protested. Luckhurst-Matthews made a comment indicating his actions and later denied the assault, which was reported to the police.

Denied the offence and was convicted by a jury. Judge described his behaviour as shocking and inexcusable, noting the lasting impact on the victim.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Alan Straughan

Intentional Strangulation

June 9, 2025

Sentence: 2 years imprisonment and a 10-year restraining order

On October 19, 2024, Alan Straughan, while acting as a carer for a vulnerable woman he had known for around six years, became angry when she asked him to call her dog in from the garden. He leaned over her, strangled her with both hands for about a minute, causing her to struggle to breathe and fear for her life. After she poked him to make him stop, he threatened to do it again and poured a drink over her head. The victim suffered soreness and tenderness to her neck and reported feeling shaken and frightened of being alone.

Pleaded guilty to intentional strangulation, making threats to kill, and common assault. Has nine previous convictions. Judge noted it was a dreadful incident involving abuse of trust as the victim's carer.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Neil Satterley

Stalking

June 8, 2025

Sentence: Fined £1,346, ordered to pay £85 costs and £538 victim surcharge, and made subject of an 18-month restraining order

Neil Satterley stalked his ex-partner, a hospital worker, by bombarding her with messages and calls, attending her address uninvited, following her and her new partner, and being abusive. The campaign lasted from July 28 to August 14, 2024, after their relationship ended, leaving the victim fearing for her safety and that of those she cared for. He was arrested after following the victim and her new partner to a police station.

Pleaded guilty to stalking and a public order offence. Was struggling with the end of the relationship and sought help from his GP, and has taken accountability for his actions.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Stephen Norton

Burglary

June 8, 2025

Sentence: Imprisonment (specific duration not stated)

On February night in 2025, Stephen Norton targeted three flats in Heaton, Newcastle, entering through unlocked doors while occupants slept. In one incident on Simonside Terrace, a woman woke to find him in her bedroom doorway, causing her significant fear; her son chased him away. In another on Rothbury Terrace, he stole a jacket and headphones. On Marleen Avenue, he took a bag and two laptops worth around £1,000, which were later recovered but damaged. Victims reported feeling unsafe and anxious, leading to plans for extra security.

Defendant pleaded not guilty; judge highlighted the terrifying impact on victims; defense noted his crack cocaine addiction and remorse; he has 95 prior convictions including 35 for house burglaries.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Matthew Hindhaugh

Kidnapping

June 7, 2025

Sentence: 16 years imprisonment

Matthew Hindhaugh, 22, of Newton Aycliffe, targeted a girl as she was walking, kidnapped her, and tried to sexually assault her. He was found with a 'rape list' and admitted to the offences.

Admitted to targeting the girl as she was walking and trying to sexually assault her.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Norman Roberts

Grievous Bodily Harm

June 6, 2025

Sentence: 18 months imprisonment, suspended for 18 months, and 200 hours unpaid work

Norman Roberts and Paul Roberts attacked their brother Melvyn following tensions after their aunt's wake. The assault involved punches and kicks, with Norman kicking Melvyn in the back, causing him to fall to his knees. Melvyn was pinned down and sustained injuries including a fractured eye socket, swelling around his eye, blurred vision, a laceration to his scalp, and numbness to his lip. The incident was captured on CCTV, and police arrested them at the scene.

Admitted to GBH. The judge described the incident as disturbing and stated he should be thoroughly ashamed. Defence mentioned he is a self-employed electrician and unlikely to reoffend. Also subject to a two-year restraining order.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Paul Roberts

Grievous Bodily Harm

June 6, 2025

Sentence: 18 months imprisonment, suspended for 18 months, and a three-month curfew between 7pm and 7am

Norman Roberts and Paul Roberts attacked their brother Melvyn following tensions after their aunt's wake. The assault involved punches and kicks, with Paul participating while Melvyn was on the ground. Melvyn sustained injuries including a fractured eye socket, swelling around his eye, blurred vision, a laceration to his scalp, and numbness to his lip. The incident was captured on CCTV, and police arrested them at the scene.

Admitted to GBH. Joined in the attack enthusiastically, though not landing the majority of blows. Defence noted he has a good work ethic and is unlikely to offend again. Also subject to a two-year restraining order.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

John Jackson

Common assault

June 6, 2025

Sentence: 18-month community order with 75 hours unpaid work and a three-year restraining order

John Jackson joined a street attack in Whitley Bay in July 2023, where he threw a punch at the victim during a altercation involving Jamie Harding and others. He was not present at the start but participated after being informed of the situation. The victim was kicked, stamped, and punched by multiple people, including Jackson, amid a melee that left a woman unconscious.

Admitted common assault. No prior convictions, and the incident was out of character. He acted on information he believed to be true and provided glowing character references, describing him as thoughtful and hard-working.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Jamie Harding

Unlawful wounding

June 6, 2025

Sentence: 18 months imprisonment suspended for 18 months, 150 hours unpaid work, 120-day alcohol abstinence monitoring requirement, and £2,500 compensation

Jamie Harding, an off-duty pub manager, engaged in a street attack in Whitley Bay in July 2023. He argued with the victim over the victim's alleged persistence with a woman, punched the victim repeatedly, followed him, and later bit the victim's left ear, partially detaching it. The victim required surgery to reattach the ear, suffered scarring, and experienced psychological effects, leading him to move away. Harding was involved in a melee where the woman was knocked unconscious.

Pleaded guilty to unlawful wounding. Judge described the incident as disgusting and depraved. No prior convictions, and glowing character references provided. He was a bar manager and the incident was out of character.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Andrew Nicoll

Causing death by careless driving

June 6, 2025

Sentence: 12 months suspended imprisonment for 12 months, 5-year driving ban, and £600 costs

Andrew Nicoll, 84, was driving his Mazda back from the Lake District on November 30, 2023, when he likely fell asleep or experienced a micro sleep at the wheel on the A69 between Haydon Bridge and Hexham. His car drifted into oncoming traffic, causing a head-on collision with a Skoda and a subsequent impact with a Land Rover. This resulted in the deaths of his passenger, Keith Aiston, aged 81, and Catherine Elford, aged 68, a passenger in the Skoda. Another person suffered serious injuries. Nicoll had been walking earlier that day and did not stop to rest during the drive.

Pleaded guilty to two counts of causing death by careless driving and one of causing serious injury by careless driving. No previous convictions. Judge noted high level of remorse and described him as a kind and considerate man.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Christopher Mason

Rape

June 6, 2025

Sentence: 17 years and three months imprisonment

Christopher Mason, 36, of Russell Avenue, South Shields, raped his victim, forced his hands around her throat until she nearly lost consciousness, verbally abused her, damaged her property, and physically assaulted her. The offences were reported to police, leading to his arrest and charging. He was found guilty of 10 offences following a trial.

Found guilty after a six-day trial; will serve a further four years on extended licence; placed on the Sex Offenders' Register for life; issued a lifelong restraining order to protect the victim. Described as 'extremely dangerous' by Det Con Kit Tipling of Northumbria Police.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Stephen Robinson

Stalking

June 5, 2025

Sentence: 3 years imprisonment and an indefinite restraining order

Stephen Robinson engaged in a campaign of stalking against his former partner from November 30, 2024, to March 10, 2025. He bombarded her with unwanted contact, including turning up at her home, repeatedly calling and messaging, sending gifts, posting on social media, sexually harassing her, making threats to blow up her house and harm others, and physically grabbing her on occasions. This left her feeling unsafe, isolated, and in fear for her life.

Pleaded guilty to stalking involving serious alarm or distress. The judge noted it was a persistent campaign of contact and a refusal to accept the relationship had ended, with the victim pushed to the point of crisis.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Toni Powell

Unlawful wounding

June 4, 2025

Sentence: 12 months imprisonment suspended for 18 months

On November 6, 2023, at her home in Felling, Gateshead, Toni Powell smashed a ceramic plant pot over the head of a police officer who was assisting in the arrest of her daughter. She claimed officers were using excessive force, but body-worn footage showed this was not the case. The officer sustained a head injury, including a wound that required gluing at the hospital, and experienced dizziness, sickness, and pain for around four months.

Pleaded guilty to unlawful wounding. Was intoxicated at the time and acted impulsively. Expressed disgust upon reviewing footage and has a troubled background but has been off drugs for two years. Judge warned that any repeat behaviour would result in a custodial sentence.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Ricky Coates

Robbery

June 4, 2025

Sentence: 39 months imprisonment and a ten-year restraining order

Ricky Coates robbed a woman in a taxi on June 4, 2023, by approaching her, punching her, and stealing a bag containing £600 and personal items, including house keys. While under investigation, on February 8, 2024, he spotted the victim with her partner in Newcastle, asked her to withdraw support for the prosecution, produced a small penknife, and recruited another man who attacked the partner with a machete, inflicting a 3cm wound to the head during an affray caught on CCTV. This intimidation exacerbated the victim's depression and anxiety.

Pleaded guilty to robbery, wounding, witness intimidation, and affray. Has 27 previous convictions and is remorseful, having addressed his drugs issue while in custody.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Charlie Toner

Assault

June 3, 2025

Sentence: 39 months imprisonment

Charlie Toner was involved in a prolonged and persistent attack on a couple in Newcastle city centre on September 28, 2024, where she banged on the bonnet of their car, punched a victim, and participated in brutal facial injuries including a fractured cheek and a 30mm gash to an ear requiring stitches. She was also involved in assaults at Birtley Morrison's on March 3, 2024, using a racial slur and terrifying staff and members of the public. Additionally, she sold pregabalin pills in June and July 2024 while on bail.

Admitted to charges relating to assaults and drug dealing. Had 27 previous convictions for five offences. Suspended sentences activated for prior offences including possession of a class B drug and assault of an emergency worker. Became a peer mentor while on remand.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Anthony Dodd

Assault

June 3, 2025

Sentence: 28 months imprisonment

Anthony Dodd participated in a violent attack on a couple in Newcastle city centre on September 28, 2024, delivering a cowardly punch to a victim who was not watching. He also committed a brutal attack on a friend of his mother in July 2023, which involved strangulation, leading to injuries for the victim.

Suffered from mental health issues and grief following his father's death. Had eight previous convictions for 13 offences. Made progress in prison and previously acted as a carer and fundraiser in the community.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Peter Dixon

Assault

June 3, 2025

Sentence: 27 months imprisonment

Peter Dixon was involved in a violent attack on a couple in Newcastle city centre on September 28, 2024, where he joined in punching victims and bit a victim's ear, resulting in swelling, cuts, a broken cheekbone, and a gash to an ear. The victims reported feeling unsafe going out and avoiding family due to injuries.

Had 25 previous convictions for 64 offences. Recognised the link between intoxication and offending, and has made efforts to improve for his children.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Nathan Lowery

Assault

June 3, 2025

Sentence: 16 months imprisonment, suspended for 21 months with 60 hours of unpaid work and community orders

Nathan Lowery participated in assaults at Birtley Morrison's on March 3, 2024, where he used metal supermarket signs as weapons, terrified staff and members of the public, and contributed to a deplorable episode of violence.

Had 12 previous convictions for 25 offences. Previously led a chaotic life but now has stability. Was not taken into custody.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Michael Sharp

Wounding with intent

June 2, 2025

Sentence: 3 years and 9 months imprisonment

On March 24, 2022, Michael Sharp was involved in an argument in a back lane on Fenwick Street, Penshaw, Sunderland, accusing a woman of fly-tipping and moving his wheelie bin. He became aggressive and hit the woman. A man intervened to protect her, leading Sharp to later arm himself with a large mallet and a knife. Sharp attacked the man at his home, stabbing him in the neck, causing a wound under his chin that extended to the floor of his mouth. The victim suffered severe physical and psychological effects, including panic attacks, scarring, voice changes, weight loss, and required surgery and counselling for depression, anxiety, and PTSD.

Found guilty by a jury of wounding with intent. Sharp has mental health difficulties and acted out of character, as stated by his defence. He was also convicted of a common assault on a woman involved in the incident.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

Mazyar Azarbonyad

Dangerous Driving

June 2, 2025

Sentence: 14 months in a young offender institution and disqualified from driving for three years and seven months

Mazyar Azarbonyad caused a collision on the A1 in Newcastle by driving a BMW dangerously, leading to a crash involving five police vehicles. The incident occurred during a pursuit, resulting in seven officers requiring hospital treatment for injuries including soft tissue damage, nerve damage, cuts, concussion, whiplash, and psychological effects. Several officers had to be cut out of their vehicles.

Pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, two counts of failing to stop a motor vehicle when required by a constable, six counts of no insurance use, and six counts of driving otherwise than in accordance with licence. Prosecuting described the traumatic injuries to officers.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

David Bloomfield

Attempting to engage in sexual communication

June 2, 2025

Sentence: 2 years and 8 months imprisonment

David Bloomfield, 56, of Craster Gardens, Wallsend, sent sexual messages to a decoy account he believed belonged to a 14-year-old girl named Olivia. The conversations became explicit, with him suggesting kissing and sex, sending images of underwear and bikinis for her to wear, and sharing images of his penis. He arranged to meet her in October 2022, but was detained outside his address by Yorkshire Predator Hunters, leading to his arrest.

Pleaded guilty to attempting to engage in sexual communication and facilitating the commission of a child sex offence. Judge noted his isolation, loneliness, and naivety, and that his arrest had increased his isolation and led to loss of accommodation and family contact.

Sources: chroniclelive.co.uk

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