Latest
Marian-Alexandru Ruset|Speeding|Nottingham Magistrates CourtAleksej Korzov|Theft|Nottingham Magistrates CourtDelphine Fang|Driving while disqualified|Nottingham Magistrates CourtJonathan Mawby|Drink driving|Nottingham Magistrates CourtAnthony Burton|Theft|Nottingham Magistrates CourtKyle Stark|Criminal damage|Nottingham Magistrates CourtHarvey Colbourn|Drink-driving|Northampton Magistrates CourtMichael Carter|Benefits fraud|Portsmouth Magistrates CourtMarian-Alexandru Ruset|Speeding|Nottingham Magistrates CourtAleksej Korzov|Theft|Nottingham Magistrates CourtDelphine Fang|Driving while disqualified|Nottingham Magistrates CourtJonathan Mawby|Drink driving|Nottingham Magistrates CourtAnthony Burton|Theft|Nottingham Magistrates CourtKyle Stark|Criminal damage|Nottingham Magistrates CourtHarvey Colbourn|Drink-driving|Northampton Magistrates CourtMichael Carter|Benefits fraud|Portsmouth Magistrates Court

Taunton Crown Court Sentencing Results

July 2024 2 cases
Ashley Jeanes
Controlling and Coercive Behaviour *
Sentence
3 years and 1 month imprisonment
Ashley Jeanes, aged 29, conducted a sustained campaign of assaults against his wife between March 2019 and January 2020, including attacking her with a baseball bat and a broom, submerging her head under water where she feared drowning, causing bruising, a permanent scar on her forehead, and significant impact on her mental wellbeing, leading to difficulties in trusting others.
Pleaded guilty to one charge of controlling and coercive behaviour and three counts of assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Police described him as a violent man who presented himself as a loving husband but engaged in brutal assaults and controlling behaviour.
26 Jul 2024
wsfp.co.uk
Cory Farrar
Robbery *
Sentence
3 years imprisonment
Cory Farrar, 27, from Bridgwater, watched a woman in her 80s do her shopping on December 31, 2022, in Puriton. As she left the store, he followed her to Riverton Road where he snatched her bag of groceries and purse containing cash and bank cards, causing her to fall onto the floor. He was identified following CCTV enquiries and witness accounts and arrested the following morning.
Pleaded guilty to robbery in May. Victim personal statement described huge impact on her health and mental well-being.
18 Jul 2024
somersetleveller.co.uk
June 2024 4 cases
Liam Allen
Theft *
Sentence
one-year prison sentence
Liam Allen, 35, of no fixed abode, committed 10 counts of theft from shops in Yeovil between December 2023 and March 2024. The offences had a significant impact on shop workers, business owners, and the general public.
Admitted 10 counts of theft. Also handed a two-year Criminal Behaviour Order prohibiting entry to specified Yeovil stores and requiring items to be placed in a basket or trolley until paid for in other stores.
27 Jun 2024
somersetleveller.co.uk
Charlie Hughes
Handling stolen goods *
Sentence
nine months imprisonment, suspended for 18 months
Charlie Hughes, of Fosse Way, Ilchester, was arrested along with two others on August 25, 2021, after officers attended Fosse Way carrying out enquiries into a stolen trailer. A full investigation was launched and machinery and trailers were recovered, with one tractor and two trailers confirmed stolen. Months later, another stolen trailer was found at the same location.
Pleaded guilty to four counts of handling stolen goods. Ordered to complete a 10-day rehabilitation activity, participate in a 29-day programme, carry out 80 hours of unpaid work, and pay £187 victim surcharge.
21 Jun 2024
somersetleveller.co.uk
Alexander Chapman
Causing death by careless driving *
Sentence
14-week suspended prison sentence, disqualified from driving for 18 months, 250 hours unpaid work
On Sunday 4 February 2024, at about 4.25pm, Alexander Chapman, 39, was using a layby on the A361 in West Lyng to turn around and head back towards his home in Taunton. He pulled out directly in front of motorcyclist Destiney Rauh, 27, who swerved to avoid the van but collided with it and hit the ground. She was pronounced dead at the scene. Chapman stopped immediately and admitted to an officer that he had not seen her. He was charged with causing death by careless driving.
Pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving. Judge Shepherd noted inadequate checks for a motorcycle, victim as vulnerable road user, and momentary lapse in concentration. Victim personal statement from grandmother read in court.
19 Jun 2024
avonandsomerset.police.uk
Luke Spencer
Burglary *
Sentence
three years and one month in prison
Luke Spencer carried out multiple burglaries across Somerset and Dorset, targeting commercial addresses to steal tobacco products. The offences took place in January and April 2024 in Bridgwater, Curry Rivel, Taunton, and Wellington in Somerset, as well as Mosterton and Sturminster Marshall in Dorset. He also committed assault causing actual bodily harm and drove without insurance.
Pleaded guilty to four counts of burglary, one count of going equipped to steal, one count of assault causing actual bodily harm, and one count of driving without insurance. Judge took into consideration three other burglaries and an attempted burglary.
17 Jun 2024
somersetleveller.co.uk
May 2024 5 cases
Jack Larnach
Possession and use of a knife *
Sentence
12 months imprisonment, suspended for two years; 250 hours unpaid work; 30 rehabilitation activity days; £250 costs
In October 2023, Jack Larnach, then 34 years old and living in Stoke-sub-Hamdon, became involved in an argument with an elderly man and a group at Stoke-sub-Hamdon Working Men’s Club. He returned to the club later that evening, acting aggressively and shouting about being owed a pint. When the group left, Larnach followed them, continued threatening them, and pulled out a knife. Police arrested him and found the knife in his possession.
Aggravating factors included being drunk and returning to the location; mitigating factors were no relevant previous convictions and caring for his mum and children. Judge Shepherd noted there was antagonism on both sides and warned that breaching the order would result in imprisonment.
21 May 2024
somersetcountygazette.co.uk
Jane Butcher
Burglary *
Sentence
18 months imprisonment
Jane Butcher entered a property in Holford Road, Taunton, on November 16, 2023, where she was found by the victim. She stole a purse, which was later discarded in the garden of the property. She was charged on November 24, 2023, and her actions were part of a pattern of offending that impacted the community.
Pleaded guilty to the offence. Described as a prolific offender by PC Jim Card, who noted that burglars like her can cause long-lasting emotional and psychological effects to victims.
21 May 2024
somersetcountygazette.co.uk
Darren Ashton
Facilitating child sex offence *
Sentence
4 years imprisonment
Darren Ashton engaged in child sexual offences between October 2010 and November 2022. He contacted individuals in the Philippines, requesting images of young naked boys and offering to pay a 15-year-old boy's tuition fees in exchange for explicit performances. Investigations revealed 185 Category A, 244 Category B, and 266 Category C indecent images, plus 10 extreme or prohibited images on his devices.
Pleaded guilty; moved to a different area and has not offended since; described as of previous good character and deeply remorseful. Judge noted exploitation of vulnerable children for personal pleasure.
9 May 2024
somersetcountygazette.co.uk
Ryan Horrill
Possession with Intent to Supply Cannabis *
Sentence
20 months imprisonment
On November 6, 2024, police attended Ryan Horrill's address on Haywood Road, Taunton, where they discovered 1.98 kilograms of cannabis and over £21,000 in cash in his house and a bin store outside. He was arrested and answered 'no comment' during his police interview. Horrill has a considerable criminal record and was previously given a suspended sentence for a similar offence but continued his activities.
Pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply a Class B drug. Has 68 previous offences, including three drug-related convictions. Judge noted his traumatic childhood, health issues, and that he had led a law-abiding life from 2019 to 2024 before reoffending. Also sentenced for breach of a suspended sentence.
9 May 2024
somersetcountygazette.co.uk
William Chalkley
Rape *
Sentence
24 years imprisonment
William Chalkley raped and sexually assaulted one woman before seeking out his next victim whom he later assaulted and raped. The offences were committed against two women between the mid 2010s and mid 2020s.
Unanimously found guilty following a trial in March. Refused to accept the severity of his actions and showed no remorse. Sentenced for 11 counts of rape and one count each of assault by penetration, sexual assault, controlling and coercive behaviour and assault causing actual bodily harm.
8 May 2024
avonandsomerset.police.uk
April 2024 4 cases
Jonathan Farrelly
Assault causing actual bodily harm *
Sentence
21 months imprisonment
Jonathan Farrelly committed two counts of assault causing actual bodily harm and harassment by breaching a restraining order in September and October 2024. He had a previous restraining order from December 12, 2023, which was discharged and replaced with a new order prohibiting contact with the victim and visits to certain areas until 2028.
Sentenced to two 12-month terms for assault to run concurrently and nine months for breach of restraining order to run consecutively. Original restraining order from December 12, 2023, discharged and replaced with a new one until 2028.
17 Apr 2024
thewestonmercury.co.uk
Connor Chard
Assault by penetration of a child under 13 *
Sentence
4 years imprisonment with a one year licence extension
Connor Chard subjected one young girl, aged seven when the abuse began, to sexual assaults on multiple occasions between 2019 and 2022. He also assaulted a second girl aged seven in 2024, who reported the abuse soon after. The victims' mothers described the profound psychological impact, including ruined childhoods and loss of sense of safety.
Previously admitted three counts of assault by penetration of a child under 13 and one further count against a second child. 15-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order imposed.
14 Apr 2024
bbc.co.uk
Andrew Wilson
Laser Misuse *
Sentence
4 months imprisonment
Andrew Wilson shone a laser at a helicopter flying over Yeovil on August 3, 2022, and at an Airbus A320 passenger plane with nearly 200 people on board during its descent to Bristol Airport on August 14, 2022. The incidents occurred at night and targeted aircraft during critical flight stages, potentially causing distractions or permanent eye damage to pilots, though both aircraft landed safely.
Admitted two offences under the Laser Misuse Act 2018. A pilot's statement highlighted the dangers, including potential temporary blindness and long-term eyesight damage. PC Jason Marshalsea noted that the act was dangerous and reckless, endangering lives.
11 Apr 2024
wsfp.co.uk
Amer Khan
Causing grievous bodily harm *
Sentence
25 months in prison
Amer Khan, 44 and from Yeovil, stabbed the victim in the armpit and cut his neck during an incident in a pub in Preston Road on 6 July 2023. The victim required hospital treatment and was subsequently discharged home to continue his recovery. Khan was arrested the following day and later charged after an investigation.
Admitted causing grievous bodily harm.
1 Apr 2024
avonandsomerset.police.uk
February 2024 2 cases
Connor Bain
Assault causing actual bodily harm *
Sentence
24 weeks custody, suspended for 18 months, and ordered to pay £1,000 compensation
On Saturday May 14, 2022, in Tudor Road, Newton Abbot, Connor Bain, a passenger in a car driven by his brother, argued with Karl Reichel over parking issues stemming from an incident three days earlier. Bain leant out of the car window to exchange words with Reichel, who was putting out recycling in his front garden. The verbal argument escalated when the men confronted each other over the garden gate; Bain threw a single punch that broke Reichel's jaw, sending him crashing into a rose bush. Bain claimed self-defence after being called a 'nonce' and alleged Reichel armed himself with an empty wine bottle, but he was found guilty by a jury.
Found guilty of assault causing actual bodily harm by a jury. Judge Anna Richardson accepted a degree of provocation but noted the seriousness of the broken jaw injury requiring a metal plate. Defendant has two jobs, regular contact with three children, and previous mental health difficulties.
16 Feb 2024
middevonadvertiser.co.uk
Mirzabek Toshpulatov
Sexual assault by penetration and sexual assault by touching *
Sentence
11 years and three months extended sentence, of which the final three years on licence
Mirzabek Toshpulatov attacked and sexually assaulted a young woman in the White Hart Lane area of Wellington during the early hours of February 26, 2023. The woman managed to get free, call the police, and Toshpulatov was identified but had fled the area. He was arrested in Essex in October 2023. The incident was committed by a stranger and had significant lifelong effects on the victim and her family.
Pleaded guilty to sexual assault by penetration and sexual assault by touching. Ordered to register as a sex offender for life and must inform police of where he is living.
16 Feb 2024
somersetleveller.co.uk
January 2024 1 case
Rhys Jones
Breaches of Sex Offenders Register and Sexual Harm Prevention Order *
Sentence
3 years imprisonment
Rhys Jones, a registered sex offender, committed serious online child-safeguarding offences and breached orders imposed after 13 previous offences. He failed to notify police of new accounts on Snapchat, TikTok, and Gmail, used Dropbox and installed Snapchat on mobile phones in breach of SHPO, and made four indecent images of children. The offences came to light during an unannounced police visit on 7 November 2023, leading to his arrest and seizure of devices.
Pleaded guilty to six counts of breaching the requirements of the Sex Offenders Register and three counts of breaching the Sexual Harm Prevention Order. Handed a restraining order until 2036 and indefinite SHPO.
16 Jan 2024
avonandsomerset.police.uk
November 2023 1 case
Geoff Marshall
Dangerous Driving *
Sentence
2 years imprisonment and a 2-year driving disqualification
Geoff Marshall, aged 41, of Station Road, Norton Fitzwarren, engaged in a driving rampage on September 10, 2023, using a 1958 American military-style truck. The incident began after an argument with his partner, during which he was holding a chainsaw over his head. He drove the truck through a police roadblock, colliding with several police and neighbours' vehicles, causing over £300,000 in damage. He reversed into his property, causing structural damage, and later drove to an M5 overbridge at Walford Cross, where he climbed over the safety barrier and threatened to jump. Police officers intervened, and he was arrested after being talked down.
Admitted to one charge of assault by beating, 11 counts of criminal damage, and one of dangerous driving. Judge Edward Burgess KC noted that Marshall was deeply ashamed and remorseful, suffering from significant mental health problems, but his actions were extremely reckless and created a high risk of injury or death.
10 Nov 2023
wsfp.co.uk
January 2023 1 case
Luke Hawkes
Causing death by dangerous driving *
Sentence
10 years imprisonment and 12 years and 7 months driving disqualification
Luke Hawkes was driving a white Ford Transit van at high speed on the A38 Taunton Road on November 8, 2022, when he jumped a red light and collided with two cars at a junction, causing the death of 19-year-old Bethany Branson, who was a passenger in one of the vehicles. He had previously been involved in a minor collision nearby and fled the scene. Hawkes was intoxicated, refused breath and drug tests, and made callous remarks indicating no remorse.
Pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving and failing to provide a specimen. The judge noted his intoxication, lack of remorse, and that this was among the first sentences under new guidelines allowing tougher penalties for dangerous driving.
27 Jan 2023
wsfp.co.uk
December 2022 2 cases
Anthony Paisley
Dwelling burglary *
Sentence
3 years and 73 days imprisonment
Anthony Paisley broke into two properties in Taunton on Tuesday 4 October and Wednesday 5 October 2022. He entered the home of a woman in her 70s near Kingston Road and stole her mobile phone. He then broke into the home of a man in his late 80s near Priorswood Road in the early hours of Wednesday morning, stealing a wallet and a sum of cash from the victim's bedside table while he was asleep. Paisley attempted to use one of the cards stolen from the second property. He was caught on CCTV committing the offences and arrested the following day.
Pleaded guilty to two counts of dwelling burglary and one of fraud.
21 Dec 2022
somersetleveller.co.uk
Sean Coates
Causing death by careless driving *
Sentence
9 months imprisonment
On Sunday 30 May 2021, Sean Coates was driving his car along the A39 at Holford when he pulled out to overtake a slow-moving vehicle. He failed to see the motorcycle, which Stacey Steer was riding as a pillion passenger with her husband Carl Steer, had already started overtaking the traffic. Coates collided with the motorbike, knocking both passengers off. Stacey Steer, aged 52, was airlifted to hospital where she later died. Coates made no attempt to stop or call emergency services and fled the scene. Officers located his car, which he had attempted to clean with baby wipes.
Pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving. Disqualified from driving for two years and 10 weeks. Judge Cook described failing to stop as 'cruel' to the family and highlighted lack of compassion.
19 Dec 2022
somersetleveller.co.uk
October 2022 1 case
Elias Arberry
Rape *
Sentence
Life imprisonment with minimum term of 15 and a half years
Elias Arberry violently assaulted his victim, inflicting serious injuries, before raping her in May 2022. The victim managed to raise the alarm when Arberry fell asleep and escaped. Officers conducted a 26-hour search for the defendant until he was found at a hotel in Weston-super-Mare.
Pleaded guilty to seven offences. Will be a registered sex offender for life. Victim granted lifetime restraining order.
14 Oct 2022
somersetleveller.co.uk
August 2022 6 cases
Jeanette Pezare
Permitting premises to be used for cannabis production *
Sentence
Conditional discharge
Jeanette Pezare, 65 of North Perrott, allowed premises she owned with Wesley Wells-Burr to be used for cannabis production in the Chard area. The investigation started in May 2017 after police found Jay Macquarrie with cannabis. Phone evidence linked to Wells-Burr, prompting a search two months later at their Chard address. Further searches in Churchstanton uncovered cannabis, cash, and a firearm.
Pleaded guilty to permitting a premises to be used for cannabis production.
9 Aug 2022
somersetleveller.co.uk
Jay Macquarrie
Conspiracy to supply cannabis *
Sentence
18-month suspended sentence with 180 hours of unpaid work
Jay Macquarrie, 30 of Taunton, was involved in a drugs ring supplying and producing cannabis in and around Chard. Police enquiries began in May 2017 during a search for a missing person where they encountered Macquarrie with a significant amount of cannabis. Forensics work linked him to others in the group. Phone work discovered links to Wesley Wells-Burr, leading to further searches in Chard and Churchstanton where cannabis, cash, and a firearm were seized.
Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply cannabis.
9 Aug 2022
somersetleveller.co.uk
Bradley Bishop
Conspiracy to produce cannabis *
Sentence
Two-year community order with 150 hours of unpaid work
Bradley Bishop, 28 of Stoke St Mary, participated in a conspiracy to produce cannabis as part of a drugs ring operating in Chard and surrounding areas. Investigations commenced in May 2017 following the seizure of cannabis from Jay Macquarrie. Forensic analysis revealed the network, leading to searches in Chard and Churchstanton where significant quantities of cannabis, cash, and a firearm were recovered.
Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to produce cannabis.
9 Aug 2022
somersetleveller.co.uk
Wesley Wells-Burr
Conspiracy to supply cannabis *
Sentence
43 months imprisonment
Wesley Wells-Burr, 64 of North Perrott, was involved in a drugs ring supplying and producing cannabis in and around Chard. Police enquiries began in May 2017 during a search for a missing person where they encountered Jay Macquarrie with a significant amount of cannabis. Forensics linked to other men, including Wells-Burr. A search of an address owned by Wells-Burr and Jeanette Pezare in Chard uncovered evidence. Two sites in Churchstanton were also searched, seizing thousands of pounds’ worth of cannabis, cash, and a firearm.
Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply cannabis.
9 Aug 2022
somersetleveller.co.uk
Michael Swanston
Conspiracy to supply cannabis *
Sentence
16-month suspended sentence with 150 hours of unpaid work
Michael Swanston, 57 of Taunton, was part of a group involved in supplying and producing cannabis in and around Chard. The investigation started in May 2017 after finding Jay Macquarrie with cannabis during a missing person search. Forensics identified Swanston and others. Searches in Chard and Churchstanton seized thousands of pounds’ worth of cannabis, cash, and a firearm.
Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply cannabis.
9 Aug 2022
somersetleveller.co.uk
Phillip Barnes
Conspiracy to produce cannabis *
Sentence
10-month suspended sentence with 150 hours of unpaid work
Phillip Barnes, 51 of Taunton, was involved in a cannabis production and supply operation in the Chard area. The probe began in May 2017 with the discovery of cannabis on Jay Macquarrie. Forensics connected Barnes to the group. Police executed warrants in Chard and Churchstanton, seizing cannabis plants, cash, and a firearm from related premises.
Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to produce cannabis.
9 Aug 2022
somersetleveller.co.uk
April 2022 2 cases
Patrick Shelley
Possessing cocaine and cannabis with intent to supply *
Sentence
30 months imprisonment
Patrick Shelley was stopped by police during targeted patrols in Dunster amid the Covid lockdown, where officers found drugs, a lock knife, and a knuckleduster in a vehicle. Further enquiries revealed more drugs at his associate's home, with a total seizure including cocaine worth over £16,500 and cannabis worth more than £9,500.
Admitted to possessing cocaine and cannabis with intent to supply, possessing an offensive weapon in public, possessing a knife in public, and acquiring/possessing criminal property.
14 Apr 2022
wsfp.co.uk
Jared Tappin
Possessing cocaine and cannabis with intent to supply *
Sentence
26 months imprisonment
Jared Tappin was stopped by police in a vehicle in Dunster with Patrick Shelley, where officers discovered drugs, a lock knife, and a knuckleduster. Further investigations led to the seizure of additional drugs at his home in Dulverton, including cocaine worth over £16,500 and cannabis worth more than £9,500.
Admitted to possessing cocaine and cannabis with intent to supply and acquiring/possessing criminal property.
14 Apr 2022
wsfp.co.uk
October 2021 2 cases
Jamie Coles
Burglary *
Sentence
31 months imprisonment
Jamie Coles robbed a residential property in Sherborne Road in Yeovil in July 2021. He was convicted and sentenced on October 29, 2021.
Pleaded guilty. Asked for four other car thefts to be taken into account. Described by police as a serial thief and prolific criminal.
29 Oct 2021
somersetleveller.co.uk
Penelope Jackson
Murder *
Sentence
Life imprisonment with minimum term of 18 years
Penelope Jackson stabbed her 78-year-old husband David Jackson multiple times at their home in Parsonage Road, Berrow, Somerset, on Saturday 13 February 2021, following an argument over dinner. She stabbed him in the chest and twice in the abdomen, aiming for his heart. David Jackson phoned emergency services at about 9pm, reporting he was critically injured. Penelope Jackson took the phone and admitted to the call-handler that she had stabbed him, stating she had 'had enough'. Paramedics attended but he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Denied murder but found guilty by majority verdict after two-and-a-half week trial. Judge Martin Picton noted no remorse and that she chose to stab her husband to death. Minus time already served in custody.
29 Oct 2021
somersetleveller.co.uk
July 2021 1 case
Barry Dunthorn
Sexual assault *
Sentence
17 years imprisonment
Barry Dunthorn groomed four male victims aged between 12 and 16 years old, encouraging them to commit sexual acts in exchange for cash payments and gifts. The offences occurred in South and East Somerset between 1981 and 2018. The most recent offences involved the sexual abuse of a 14-year-old victim over a 12-month period, paid large cash sums for sexual activity.
Found guilty after a two-week trial of nine counts of sexual assault. No remorse shown. Judge comments not specified.
16 Jul 2021
somersetleveller.co.uk
June 2021 2 cases
Clare Watts
Carrying on a business under a prohibited name *
Sentence
12 weeks imprisonment suspended for 12 months and fined £200
Clare Watts, 54, of Milborne Port, was the official sole director of The Yeovil Wine Vaults Ltd, incorporated in October 2013 and wound up in March 2017. She allowed Jane Goodfellow, who was disqualified, to act as a de facto director while carrying on a business under a prohibited name.
Pleaded guilty to carrying on a business under a prohibited name. Signed an undertaking disqualifying her from being a director for 7 years.
21 Jun 2021
somersetleveller.co.uk
Jane Goodfellow
Acting as a director while disqualified *
Sentence
4 months imprisonment suspended for 18 months and 80 hours unpaid work
Jane Goodfellow, 58, of Milborne Port, acted as a de facto director of The Yeovil Wine Vaults Ltd, incorporated in October 2013 and wound up in March 2017, despite being disqualified from acting as a director for 11 years from March 2006 following the liquidation of Peaceflight Ltd in August 2003 due to trading at the detriment of creditors and tax authorities. She was the main decision maker, signed cheques, dealt with wages, and handled day-to-day administration.
Pleaded guilty to acting as a director while disqualified and carrying on a business under a prohibited name. Disqualification extended by a further 10 years.
21 Jun 2021
somersetleveller.co.uk
December 2020 1 case
Ian Rowland
Causing death by careless driving *
Sentence
28 weeks imprisonment
Ian Rowland, 51, was driving on a country road near Shepton Mallet in April 2020 when he lost control of his Vauxhall Vectra after over-steering on the B3139 at Emborough, causing it to skid sideways into the wrong side of the road and collide with the vehicle carrying Emma Summerell, 44. Ms Summerell was recovering from a two-year battle with cancer and was about to be given the all clear and marry the love of her life. The crash resulted in her death, and Rowland's actions led to his conviction.
Denied the charge and did not give evidence. Judge stated that his speed was not safe for the road or conditions, and it was more than a momentary lapse of concentration. Defence noted he is a decent man who taught maths and science to children with special educational needs and may be suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.
28 Dec 2020
wsfp.co.uk
July 2020 1 case
Jamie Spencer
Burglary *
Sentence
876 days imprisonment
Jamie Spencer, a 47-year-old man of no fixed address, forced his way into a property in Yeovil on 3 June 2020, stealing a purse. The following day, 4 June 2020, he broke into a home in Yeovil to steal alcohol and committed a similar theft at a town centre pub. He was charged on 10 June 2020 and remanded in custody.
Admitted two counts of burglary and one of theft. Asked the court to take two further offences into account. Ordered to pay £190 victim surcharge.
3 Jul 2020
somersetleveller.co.uk
February 2020 1 case
Ian Sephton
Robbery *
Sentence
18 months imprisonment
Ian Sephton, a 48-year-old drug addict living in a tent near Minehead, stole hundreds of pounds worth of goods and cash to fund his habit. In April, he stole a handbag from a 77-year-old woman in a Tesco car park and another from a woman in the Hairy Dog pub, and carried out four credit card transactions. He also stole £200 worth of perfume from stores in Minehead. The most serious incident occurred in May when he grabbed £350 in cash from an 80-year-old man at an HSBC cashpoint in Minehead, leaving the victim feeling vulnerable and anxious.
Pleaded guilty to his crimes. Judge Paul Cook stated that, although he was sorry, his level of addiction demanded a custodial sentence. He was spending £60 a day on cocaine and heroin and had fled from drug-dealers in Liverpool.
5 Feb 2020
wsfp.co.uk
September 2019 1 case
Jonathan Bristow
Rape *
Sentence
7 years imprisonment
Jonathan Bristow, a 50-year-old man from Shoreditch in Taunton, went to the victim's house to help her prepare for a party. The victim fell asleep on a sofa and woke to find Bristow on top of her, raping her. The incident was reported to police in July 2018. There was a child asleep upstairs in the house at the time.
Found guilty following a trial. Placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register for life and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £170.
12 Sep 2019
somersetleveller.co.uk
April 2019 1 case
Not Stated
Sexual assault *
Sentence
4 years and 7 months imprisonment
The man committed three sexual assaults in Shepton Mallet and Street between June and August 2018. In the first incident on 5 June 2018, he attacked a 24-year-old woman in Somerton Road, Street, pushing her against a wall and sexually assaulting her before fleeing when she shouted. The victim provided a detailed description, including brightly coloured construction trousers, leading to identification via CCTV. The second incident occurred on 19 July 2018, when an 18-year-old woman was attacked after leaving a supermarket; she forced him off and ran home. The third incident was on 31 August 2018 in Dark Lane, Shepton Mallet, where a 20-year-old woman jogging was grabbed around the throat, pulled to the ground, fought back, and escaped after kicking him.
Pleaded guilty to three counts of sexual assault. Judge Cook noted the offences showed an escalation in violence and were planned as the offender had lain in wait for his victims. On release, he will be on licence for a further three years and on the Sex Offenders’ Register for life.
12 Apr 2019
somersetleveller.co.uk
February 2017 1 case
Peter Cooper
Indecent Assault *
Sentence
3 years imprisonment
Peter Cooper, a former doctor, committed historic sex offences against a girl starting when she was six years old. The offences included indecency with a girl under ten and multiple indecent assaults, which came to light in 2014 when members of the girl's family confronted him. He had lived independently and was described as a dedicated doctor for 40 years.
Pleaded guilty to one count of indecency with a girl under ten and five counts of indecent assault. Appeal against sentence was dismissed, with judges noting his relative fitness despite his age.
1 Feb 2017
wsfp.co.uk
August 2014 1 case
Paul Francis
Sexual assault on a child under 13 *
Sentence
4 years imprisonment
Paul Francis, aged 62, targeted young children by promising music lessons and opportunities to be in a band. He sexually assaulted a nine-year-old girl, forcing her to engage in inappropriate behaviour at his home, and exchanged letters with a ten-year-old girl that caused her distress. These offences occurred in March 2014, and police investigations revealed indecent images of children at his home. Francis lived in Williton, West Somerset, between 2008 and 2012, and may have committed similar acts during that time.
Pleaded guilty at the first opportunity. Has a history of serious sexual offences dating back to 1973, including a nine-year sentence for rape. Committed the offences when emotionally low and expressed a desire for help to prevent re-offending. Will be on an extended six-year licence and the sex offenders' register for life, with a ban on contact with children under 16.
13 Aug 2014
wsfp.co.uk
Date Not Specified 7 cases
Omar Bailey
Being concerned in the supply of heroin and cocaine *
Sentence
three years and six months' imprisonment
Omar Bailey, of Swinderby Road in Wembley, was involved in transporting class A drugs including heroin and cocaine to Bridgwater from London between December 2020 and March 2021 as part of a county lines operation. He was arrested as part of a joint investigation between Avon & Somerset Police and the Metropolitan Police.
Pleaded guilty to being concerned in the supply of heroin and cocaine.
1 Jan 0001
somersetleveller.co.uk
Natasia Gayle
Concerned in the supply of Class A drugs *
Sentence
3 years and 6 months imprisonment
Seven members of a county lines drug gang transported Class A drugs including heroin and crack cocaine from the West Midlands and sold them on the streets of Bridgwater. Activities disrupted by police after public reports of open drug sales. Officers identified transaction locations, stopped suspicious individuals, traced phone lines used to coordinate sales. Nine warrants executed at addresses in Bridgwater, Wolverhampton and London led to arrests of four men and three women, recovery of significant sums of Class A drugs, cash, weapons, ammunition and a stab vest.
Part of a county lines drug gang transporting Class A drugs from the West Midlands to Bridgwater.
1 Jan 0001
somersetleveller.co.uk
Paul Green
Assault *
Sentence
2 years imprisonment
On Wednesday 25 May 2022, Paul Green, of Pearmain Road, Somerton, aged 40, and his wife got into a verbal argument. After going to bed, Green woke the victim and threatened her with a knife. He also covered her face with a pillow. He then left the property but returned later, shouting outside the house until police arrived.
Handed a five-year prevention from harassment order.
1 Jan 0001
somersetleveller.co.uk
Phillip Grove
Rape *
Sentence
22 years imprisonment
In the 1990s, while a volunteer Chief Petty Officer at a Sea Cadets group in Taunton, Phillip Grove raped one child victim, indecently assaulted another, and committed acts of indecency in front of two other child victims across incidents spanning six years. Reported to police in September 2020, arrested in March 2021, convicted on December 8, 2023.
Found guilty after trial of 15 charges: two counts of rape, 10 counts of indecency with a child, and three counts of indecent assault. One year on extended licence. Life-long Sexual Harm Prevention Order, required to register as a sex offender for life, and barred from working with children. Judge described him as a 'dangerous individual', 'self-centred, dishonest and callous' with no remorse.
1 Jan 0001
somersetleveller.co.uk
Phoenix Fox
Concerned in the supply of Class A drugs *
Sentence
2-year suspended prison sentence
Seven members of a county lines drug gang transported Class A drugs including heroin and crack cocaine from the West Midlands and sold them on the streets of Bridgwater. Activities disrupted by police after public reports of open drug sales. Officers identified transaction locations, stopped suspicious individuals, traced phone lines used to coordinate sales. Nine warrants executed at addresses in Bridgwater, Wolverhampton and London led to arrests of four men and three women, recovery of significant sums of Class A drugs, cash, weapons, ammunition and a stab vest.
Told to attend a drug rehabilitation course. Part of a county lines drug gang transporting Class A drugs from the West Midlands to Bridgwater.
1 Jan 0001
somersetleveller.co.uk
Malique Orrell
Concerned in the supply of Class A drugs *
Sentence
3 years and 1 month imprisonment
Seven members of a county lines drug gang transported Class A drugs including heroin and crack cocaine from the West Midlands and sold them on the streets of Bridgwater. Activities disrupted by police after public reports of open drug sales. Officers identified transaction locations, stopped suspicious individuals, traced phone lines used to coordinate sales. Nine warrants executed at addresses in Bridgwater, Wolverhampton and London led to arrests of four men and three women, recovery of significant sums of Class A drugs, cash, weapons, ammunition and a stab vest.
Part of a county lines drug gang transporting Class A drugs from the West Midlands to Bridgwater.
1 Jan 0001
somersetleveller.co.uk
Michael Sellings
Rape of a child under 13 *
Sentence
12 years imprisonment
Michael Sellings, 63, of Horsey Lane in Yeovil, committed 12 offences between November 2016 and June 2021, including three counts of raping a child under the age of 13, one count of causing/inciting a girl under 13 to engage in sexual activity, three counts of making indecent photographs/pseudo-photographs of a child, three counts of taking an indecent photograph/pseudo-photograph of a child, one count of possessing extreme pornographic images, and one count of possessing prohibited images of a child. Arrested following intelligence; police seized 11 items from his home containing over 7,000 images including 1,751 category A (most serious), plus 28 images he took himself of two children under 13.
Pleaded guilty to 12 offences. Judge noted his offending caused 'absolute devastation' to his two victims. Also given a Sexual Harm Prevention Order.
1 Jan 0001
somersetleveller.co.uk

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

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

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

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

No sentences found matching your search.

Showing 51-100 of 139 results

Crown Court
United Kingdom

About Taunton Crown Court

Taunton Crown Court is a Crown Court that handles serious criminal cases including murder, rape, robbery, and other indictable offences. With 139 sentencing records in our database, it processes cases heard before a judge and jury, with the power to impose the full range of sentences available under UK law.

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.

Request Removal

Requesting removal of listing for: