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Warwick Crown Court Sentencing Results

Explore 309 verdicts at Warwick Crown Court (Leamington Spa). Updated with the latest court outcomes.

Warwick Crown Court
September 2017 2 cases
Ellis Viola
Inflicting grievous bodily harm *
Sentence
20 months detention
On June 25, 2017, in the early hours outside a nightclub in Coventry city centre, Ellis Viola saw his ex-partner Jade Kavanagh talking to a male friend. He grabbed her and tried to make her leave with him. When she resisted and fell to the ground, he kicked her four to six times while she curled up to protect her face. He then knocked her down again, dragged her along the ground, and shouted abuse as she left in a taxi. The victim suffered a broken jaw requiring surgery with a metal plate and a broken nose.
Pleaded guilty to inflicting grievous bodily harm without intent. No previous convictions. Restraining order granted banning contact with victim Jade Kavanagh. Judge noted remorse, family support, and college progress but deemed the attack too serious for suspension.
Rocky Fawkner
Burglary *
Sentence
2 years and 4 months imprisonment
On June 23, 2017, Rocky Fawkner, along with two accomplices, used a stolen Daihatsu 4x4 to carry out three commercial burglaries. They first attempted to break into Motostore premises in Railway Terrace, Rugby, by kicking in the door and smashing a window but were disturbed and fled. They then ram-raided Paddox Cycles shop on Hillmorton Road, Rugby, causing £10,000 in damage and stealing a small amount of cash. Subsequently, they targeted Shilton Garage near Bulkington, ramming the roller shutters and causing £2,000 in damage, stealing a battery charger before police arrived. Fawkner was left behind but escaped, handing himself in to police ten days later.
Pleaded guilty to two burglaries, an attempted burglary, and being carried in a stolen car. Was on licence at the time and recalled to prison to continue serving prior sentence for robbery.
August 2017 6 cases
Lentine Shaw
Inflicting grievous bodily harm and witness intimidation *
Sentence
2 years imprisonment for assault with a consecutive 1 year for witness intimidation
On June 3, 2017, Lentine Shaw, 22, of Caradoc Close, Coventry, entered the home of his 19-year-old girlfriend's friend uninvited. Ignoring the friend's screams, he went upstairs to the bedroom where she was lying, jumped on the bed, and launched a prolonged attack. He punched and kicked her as she curled up, bit her on the back, grabbed her by the hair, dragged her onto the landing, and continued kicking her. The attack was witnessed by one of the friend's children. He threw a £10 note on the bed telling her not to tell anyone, then returned for a final kick before leaving. The victim was unconscious and bleeding from her nose and severely from an intimate area requiring stitches. Later, Shaw texted the friend warning her not to make a statement or he would 'go mad'.
Pleaded guilty. Previous convictions for violence and witness intimidation. Judge noted stormy relationship, severe assault in presence of children, and aggravating features.
Christopher Johnson
Indecent assault *
Sentence
4 years imprisonment
In the 1990s, Christopher Johnson, then a Scout leader in the Kenilworth area, groomed and indecently assaulted a 13-year-old boy multiple times. Incidents included showing pornographic films, sexual touching at his parents' house, and assault in his caravan during a Scout camp at Coombe Abbey Country Park near Coventry. The abuse came to light in 2015 when the victim attempted blackmail, leading to Johnson's report to police and subsequent arrest and trial.
Pleaded not guilty but convicted by jury on three charges. Ordered to register as a sex offender for life and barred from working with children. Judge noted betrayal of trust and lasting impact on victim.
Balvinder Singh
Sexual assault *
Sentence
8 months imprisonment
On January 17, 2016, in the early hours, Balvinder Singh, a 56-year-old taxi driver from Tachbrook Road, Leamington, drove a woman in her 50s home from Coventry city centre after she had been socialising in pubs. A dispute arose over the fare, which was higher due to waiting time. The woman became abusive and called the police to complain about being overcharged. After paying £10, she struggled to exit the cab. Singh opened the door, and as she got out, he grabbed her between her legs over her clothing in the area of her private parts. A neighbour witnessed him grabbing her in a bear hug and appearing to try to kiss her, and shouted out, causing Singh to release her and drive away. The woman, distraught, called the police again. Singh was traced, arrested, and denied the offence, claiming she hugged him first and he pushed her away. The jury rejected his account after a two-hour deliberation.
Convicted after trial by unanimous jury verdict. Ordered to register as a sex offender for 10 years. Judge commented on breach of trust by a taxi driver committing a sexual offence against a passenger.
Martin Barnes
Possessing indecent images of children *
Sentence
12 months imprisonment suspended for 2 years
Martin Barnes possessed 16 category A movies and 196 stills showing children as young as 12 months old being subjected to penetrative sex acts by adult males, downloaded between April 2016 and February 2017. Police executed a warrant at his home in February 2017, seizing his laptop and memory card. He also had 12 category B movies and 189 stills of non-penetrative sex acts with children, 599 category C stills of children in naked or indecent poses, and one extreme pornographic image involving an animal. Images were found in a folder named 'Martin' and obtained using search terms like 'Lolita'. Barnes claimed remote access by others but remote software was not activated.
Pleaded guilty but continued to deny culpability to probation officer. Ordered to take part in rehabilitation activity and register as a sex offender for 10 years. Judge noted social isolation and concerns about coping in custody due to size and mobility issues.
Akiem Burton
Possessing class A drugs with intent to supply and possessing a bladed article *
Sentence
21 months imprisonment for drug offences and consecutive 4 months imprisonment for possessing a bladed article
On May 24, 2017, Akiem Burton was found in Claverdon near Warwick after being ordered off a train for lacking a ticket. He aroused suspicion by wearing a long winter coat and woolly beanie on a warm day. Police conducted a stop and search, initially finding a small amount of cannabis. During a struggle, they discovered a clingfilm package in his coat containing ten £10 wraps of heroin and 33 deals of crack cocaine worth up to £660, plus a bayonet-sized knife in his waistband. Messages on his phone indicated drug supply, and drug paraphernalia was found at his home in Cotswold Close, Rednal, Birmingham.
Pleaded guilty to two charges of possessing class A drugs with intent to supply and possessing a bladed article. Was subject to a suspended sentence at the time for a previous knife offence. Judge noted depression but stated it was no excuse for drug dealing.
Jake Brown
Evading the prohibition on the importation of cannabis *
Sentence
10 months imprisonment suspended for 2 years
In September 2016, customs officers intercepted a parcel from Canada addressed to Jake Brown, containing 727 grams of herbal cannabis hidden in a toy set, with a street value of up to £10 per gram. Brown, a 33-year-old self-employed plasterer from Avenue Road, Leamington, obtained the cannabis via the dark web for personal use and sale to friends. Upon arrest, he was found with 50 grams of cannabis for his own use. Scales and dealer bags were discovered, indicating significant supply to friends. Brown admitted a significant cannabis abuse habit but had voluntarily sought help and abstained for four months. He is a responsible father contributing to his seven-month-old child's family despite separation.
Pleaded guilty. Ordered to do 250 hours of unpaid work and comply with a three night overnight curfew. Judge noted good work record, responsibility towards child, and cessation of cannabis use, allowing suspension rather against better judgement.
July 2017 12 cases
Ian Turner
Converting criminal property *
Sentence
two years in prison suspended for two years, with a rehabilitation activity for 15 days
Ian Turner, a 49-year-old mechanic from Jubilee Avenue, Redditch, received stolen vehicles, mainly Land Rovers, at a workshop he rented in an outbuilding at Claverdon Hall Farm, Claverdon. He broke them up into sellable parts and sold or fitted them, including at local events. The operation involved parts from 15 Land Rovers, a Range Rover Evoque, an Audi RS4, a Ford Fiesta, and a motorcycle, with vehicles totalling around £160,000 in value. It came to light after a Land Rover Discovery stolen from Birmingham in September 2016, fitted with a tracker, was traced to the farm. Turner initially admitted buying the vehicles knowing they were stolen due to low prices from members of the travelling community, later claiming he was working for them under pressure.
Pleaded guilty. Judge de Bertodano noted he played an essential part in the operation but accepted it was not his idea. Defence claimed coercion from the travelling community and that Turner had been assaulted.
Gary Morgan
Robbery *
Sentence
4 years imprisonment
On June 11, 2017, at around 9pm, Gary Morgan and Daniel Pollock entered Shipleys Casino in Walsgrave Road, Coventry, where two female staff were working with one customer. Morgan held a machete concealed behind his leg under his coat and brandished it at one of the women, grabbing her by the shoulder. They pushed the terrified women towards the office, ordering them to the safe, and demanded money. They took around £250 in cash from a pot on the desk, searched cupboards and drawers, and stole a purse containing £20 and bank cards from one woman's handbag before fleeing.
Pleaded guilty to robbery. Indicated plea at earlier stage, given more credit. Previous convictions for offences including robbery and violence. Committed offence after turning back to drugs following death of his brother. Judge noted joint offence with degree of planning and that he carried the weapon.
Daniel Pollock
Robbery *
Sentence
4.5 years imprisonment
On June 11, 2017, at around 9pm, Daniel Pollock and Gary Morgan entered Shipleys Casino in Walsgrave Road, Coventry, where two female staff were working with one customer. Pollock peered through the window, put on a deerstalker-type hat, and entered with head bowed. Morgan held a machete concealed behind his leg under his coat and brandished it at one of the women, grabbing her by the shoulder. They pushed the terrified women towards the office, ordering them to the safe, and demanded money. They took around £250 in cash from a pot on the desk, searched cupboards and drawers, and stole a purse containing £20 and bank cards from one woman's handbag before fleeing.
Pleaded guilty to robbery and possessing the machete. Claimed involvement under duress with no prior knowledge, but judge noted CCTV showed him peering through window to check premises before entering. Previous convictions for violence. Defence stated it was a stupid act which he regrets. Judge noted joint offence with degree of planning and awareness of the weapon.
Faiyaz Patel
Common assault and possessing an offensive weapon in a public place *
Sentence
15 months imprisonment suspended for 2 years
On Sunday March 5, 2017, Faiyaz Patel refused to hand over his children to his ex-wife's partner, Mohammed Aljabban, at an arranged meeting-place in Grangemouth Road, Coventry, at 6pm. Patel approached Aljabban with hostility and punched him in the face with a knuckleduster, causing reddening to the cheek. Patel was arrested and initially claimed it was a piece of foam in his hand. He denied charges of common assault and possessing an offensive weapon in a public place but was found guilty by Coventry Magistrates Court, which committed the case to Warwick Crown Court for sentencing.
Ordered to take part in a rehabilitation activity for 30 days. Ordered to pay £600 compensation to his victim and £340 costs. Recorder Alastair Smith rejected suggestion of supervision via Skype from the United Arab Emirates.
Edward Rattigan
Robbery *
Sentence
4 years and 4 months imprisonment
Edward Rattigan committed multiple burglaries and an attempted robbery. On April 29, 2017, he smashed a window at Sonargaon Tandoori Restaurant in Daventry Road, Coventry, to steal charity boxes and alcohol but fled empty-handed. In May 2017, he stole cash and items from the staff canteen at Millboard premises in Oxford Road, Ryton-on-Dunsmore, captured on CCTV. On May 28, 2017, at the Premier Inn in Coventry, he tampered with the safe, stole £90 from the till, threatened the night porter with a screwdriver demanding the safe be opened, and attempted to force open empty tills. In early June 2017, he stole £100 from a till at the Allesley Hotel in Birmingham Road, Coventry. The offences were linked to heroin use following a relationship argument.
Pleaded guilty to theft at Premier Inn, attempted robbery of night porter, and three charges of burglary. 39 previous convictions for 89 offences. Recorder Alastair Smith noted the robbery was serious and sustained against a lone employee, clearly terrifying for him.
Jamie Considine
Obstructing the railway *
Sentence
12 weeks custody
On February 17, 2017, at 12.30pm, Jamie Considine was spotted dangling his legs over a railway bridge in Rugby Road, Leamington, contemplating suicide after becoming unemployed, his father dying, and taking an overdose of pain killers induced by drink and drugs. He spent two hours on the bridge, uncooperative with police negotiators, intending to hang or jump but unable to move. This caused 26 trains to be delayed for a total of 242 minutes, costing Network Rail £8,120. He was arrested and assessed at University Hospital in Coventry, where doctors found no mental illness. He apologised for the disruption.
Pleaded guilty to obstructing the railway. Appeal against sentence rejected by Judge Andrew Lockhart QC. Ten previous convictions for 23 offences. On licence from a prior sentence of three years and four months for burglaries.
Kevin Collins
Dangerous driving *
Sentence
8 months imprisonment suspended for 18 months
On February 19, 2017, in Leamington town centre, Kevin Collins, who was drunk, approached a Ford Focus parked in Warwick Street. Two women on a hen night saw him enter the car and drive off, almost hitting one of them. He drove the wrong way down a one-way street, scraping a parked car in Windsor Street and ripping off its wing mirror, before colliding with another parked vehicle. Police found him sitting next to the car ten minutes later. He denied driving, refused a breath test and details, and was arrested. He had two prior convictions for driving with excess alcohol.
Pleaded guilty to driving while disqualified, dangerous driving and failing to provide a specimen of breath. Ordered to take part in a drink-impaired driver’s programme and banned from driving for three years. Judge Sylvia de Bertodano noted it was a very dangerous offence and suspended the sentence.
Neil Wake
Malicious wounding *
Sentence
2.5 years imprisonment
In June 2015, Neil Wake lost his temper during a phone call with Edward Zagajewski's partner while his wife was at their home. After a heated row with his wife, who was concerned about his anger, Zagajewski went to Wake's home on School Lane, Kenilworth, to calm him down. When Zagajewski knocked on the window and tried to see over the gate, Wake came out armed with the tube from a vacuum cleaner and attacked him, striking him multiple times to the head. Zagajewski fell backwards into the fence, suffering a head wound requiring nine stitches, temporary damage to vision and hearing, and bruising to his body. Wake claimed self-defence, stating Zagajewski had raised his voice and approached him.
Pleaded guilty to malicious wounding. Previous conviction for assault taken into account. Judge Sylvia de Bertodano stated the offence was too serious for a suspended sentence.
Wayne Clark
Robbery *
Sentence
4 years and 8 months extended sentence
In December 2016, Wayne Clark, aged 41-42, cycled up behind an 87-year-old pensioner outside her Whitefriars Housing Association flat on Spon Street, Coventry, and grabbed her shopping bag containing her purse, pulling her to the ground. She screamed for help, alerting lift engineer David O’Sullivan, who chased Clark, knocked him off his bike, and held him until police arrived. Clark provided a false name and address, refused a drug test, and had five prior robbery convictions, including against elderly women. The victim, fearing further targeting, left her home of ten years for sheltered accommodation.
Pleaded guilty to robbery, obstructing a police officer, and failing to provide a test for analysis. Sentenced in absence after refusing to attend court. Judge commended David O’Sullivan for bravery in apprehending him. Found to be a dangerous offender with prior convictions for similar offences.
John Finch
Inflicting grievous bodily harm and controlling or coercive behaviour *
Sentence
2 years and 10 months imprisonment
John Finch, 29, of Hill Meads Road, Kings Norton, Birmingham, but living at his victim's home in Southam, engaged in controlling and coercive behaviour towards his girlfriend, whom he met in November 2016. He moved in with her and her young son in January 2017. During the relationship, he caused her multiple injuries by grabbing, throwing, hitting, and strangling her, sent threatening text messages including threats to stab her, and expressed hopes that guilt from his imprisonment would affect her. The incident leading to sentencing occurred in February 2017 when he became angry over a mess made by her dog, threw a TV remote at her, punched her causing her to fall, and pressed his foot on her head while she was on the floor, leading to her losing consciousness. She was hospitalized and found to have a fractured rib and punctured lung, requiring a week's stay.
Pleaded guilty. Previous convictions for violence, including inflicting grievous bodily harm, and subject to a community order for disclosing private photographs of an ex-partner. Recorder Anthony Potter noted the violent and belittling behaviour, aggravated by being committed in her own home.
Jonathan Cawley
Theft from vehicles *
Sentence
4 months imprisonment suspended for 12 months
Jonathan Cawley and Julie Cawley targeted railway station car parks to steal spare wheels from the rear doors of Land Rover Discoveries. The offences occurred at Rugby railway station on January 25, 2017 (spare wheel stolen from a man's vehicle parked from 6.25am to 7.20pm, cost £300 to replace) and January 30, 2017 (spare wheel stolen from a Jaguar Land Rover employee's work vehicle, rear door damaged). They were arrested on January 31, 2017, at Rugby station after police observed their white Transit van and prevented them from leaving.
Pleaded guilty to two thefts from vehicles. Previous convictions for 13 offences including four for theft. Ordered to take part in rehabilitation and thinking skills activities and to pay £900 compensation. Wife heavily pregnant with one child already.
Julie Cawley
Theft from vehicles *
Sentence
Conditional discharge for 12 months
Jonathan Cawley and Julie Cawley targeted railway station car parks to steal spare wheels from the rear doors of Land Rover Discoveries. The offences occurred at Rugby railway station on January 25, 2017 (spare wheel stolen from a man's vehicle parked from 6.25am to 7.20pm, cost £300 to replace) and January 30, 2017 (spare wheel stolen from a Jaguar Land Rover employee's work vehicle, rear door damaged). They were arrested on January 31, 2017, at Rugby station after police observed their white Transit van and prevented them from leaving.
Pleaded guilty to two thefts from vehicles. One previous conviction for fraud. Heavily pregnant, due to be induced in a week, with one young child and another on the way.
June 2017 10 cases
Paul Bishop
Meeting a child following grooming and sexual assault *
Sentence
20 months imprisonment
Paul Bishop, 22, groomed a 14-year-old girl he met on Facebook last year, knowing her age, by exchanging flirty messages via Facebook, Snapchat, and texts. He suggested meeting up despite her being under 16. They met three times in secluded places; the first two involved chatting and hugging, but on the third meeting in a secluded field near her home in mid-Warwickshire, he attempted to kiss her, and after she pushed him away, he sexually assaulted her. The girl later confided in her grandmother, leading to police involvement. Messages showed Bishop expressing desire for sex. He initially lied to police about her initiating contact and his awareness of her age.
Pleaded guilty to meeting a child following grooming and sexually assaulting her. Ordered to register as a sex offender for ten years. Restraining order banning contact with the girl for five years. Sexual harm prevention order restricting contact with any child under 16 for ten years. No previous convictions. Judge noted actions involved planning and pressure to conceal communications.
Nathan Hunter
Wounding *
Sentence
16 months in prison suspended for 12 months
On the morning of February 5, 2017, at his ex-girlfriend Rayne Murray's flat in Coventry where he had previously lived, Nathan Hunter climbed in through an open balcony door after receiving no answer at the door despite believing she was alone. He found her in bed with Jack Goldfinch and made threats. A struggle ensued in which Hunter tried to punch Goldfinch, who retaliated by punching, headbutting, and putting him in a headlock. During the fight near the bathroom, Hunter grabbed a small Swiss Army knife kept there and stabbed Goldfinch twice in the side, causing superficial wounds that required hospital treatment including closure, dressing, painkillers, and a tetanus jab. Hunter also bit Goldfinch's finger. He then retreated to the balcony and was shut out. Hunter admitted to police that he stabbed Goldfinch because Goldfinch, who was larger and a boxer, was getting the better of him during the altercation over the ended relationship.
Pleaded guilty. Ordered to take part in a rehabilitation activity for up to 20 days. First offence. Judge noted his positive youth, music career, and involvement in community work, and hoped not to see him again. Defendant promised the judge he would not reoffend.
Daniel Rollins
Having an offensive weapon, affray, and attempting to pervert the course of justice *
Sentence
12 months imprisonment
On October 2016, Daniel Rollins discovered Shaun O’Regan breaking into his works van containing tools in Tachbrook Road, Leamington. Believing it was a theft, Rollins confronted O’Regan, kicked him while he was on the ground, and struck him over the head with a baseball bat, which broke. CCTV footage captured the incident. Later, after being remanded and granted bail, Rollins engaged in messages with O’Regan, who initiated contact offering to withdraw his complaint for payment, and Rollins attempted to persuade him not to attend court, constituting an attempt to pervert the course of justice.
Pleaded guilty to having an offensive weapon, affray, and attempting to pervert the course of justice. Judge noted his outrage at discovering the van break-in but criticized taking the law into his own hands and participating in discussions to pay off the victim.
Christopher Kain
Affray *
Sentence
12 weeks custody suspended for 12 months, with a 9pm to 5am curfew for six weeks, and 100 hours of unpaid work
Following the assault on Shaun O’Regan by Daniel Rollins in October 2016 in Tachbrook Road, Leamington, Christopher Kain left his home and went with Rollins to O’Regan’s residence in Windmill Road. There, Kain entered the home and smashed O’Regan’s television, contributing to the affray.
Pleaded guilty to affray. Involved after the initial incident by going to O’Regan’s home and smashing his television.
Anthony Bromley
Possessing heroin with intent to supply *
Sentence
4 years and 2 months imprisonment
Anthony Bromley, aged 37 from Hewitt Avenue, Coventry, was caught dealing Class A drugs while on bail for an earlier driving offence. On May 3, 2017, police stopped him driving in Emscote Road, Warwick, in breach of disqualification, and found drug paraphernalia, 87 £10 wraps of heroin, phones, and a drug-related notebook. Previously, last year, he was arrested after erratic driving in a Jaguar, pursued by police, going the wrong way around a traffic island, through red lights, hitting the central reservation and an oncoming HGV, before stopping and discarding 35 wraps of heroin and crack cocaine. He has a persistent criminal record including multiple driving while disqualified, three dangerous driving offences, and a prior conviction at age 18 for possessing amphetamine with intent to supply. His drug addiction led to debt and relapse into dealing.
Pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, driving while disqualified, possessing heroin and crack cocaine, and possessing heroin with intent to supply. Consecutive to 7 months of a previously suspended sentence activated for a prior driving offence. Judge Andrew Lockhart QC presided.
Zac Markham-Martin
Possessing indecent images of children *
Sentence
30 months imprisonment
Zac Markham-Martin, a registered sex offender, was caught with indecent images of children on his phone on March 24, 2017, just a month after his licence period ended following an 18-month sentence in March 2016 for making and possessing indecent images. He was living at a probation hostel in Kenilworth Road, Leamington, when stopped by his police offender manager. Officers found indecent images of boys aged three to 13, as well as extreme pornographic images, on an internet-capable phone and in a drop box account. He admitted downloading them and acknowledged his sexual interest in children, expressing a desire for treatment in custody.
Pleaded guilty to three charges of possessing indecent images of children, possessing extreme pornography, and breaching a sexual harm prevention order. Ordered to register as a sex offender for life. Judge noted the offences were made worse by previous convictions and the flagrant breach of the prior order.
Peter Devoisey
Burglary *
Sentence
3 years and 8 months imprisonment
Peter Devoisey committed three burglaries. In November 2015, he burgled a house opposite his then Coventry home and was disturbed by the occupier returning. On bail for that offence, in April 2017 he broke into an 83-year-old pensioner's home in Cubbington by forcing open a ground floor patio door, but fled empty-handed when the owner returned unexpectedly after being out for half an hour. Within half an hour, he broke into another house two miles away in Weston-under-Wetherley while the owner was at work, stealing over £5,000 worth of property including jewellery, laptop computers, phones, and currency.
Pleaded guilty to three burglary charges. Had 14 prior convictions for 31 offences including offences against the person and dishonesty. Judge commented that courts bear down heavily on home burglaries as they are distressing for victims.
Julie Wadsworth
Indecent assault on a boy under 16 and outraging public decency *
Sentence
5 years imprisonment
Between 1992 and 1999, Julie Wadsworth and her husband abused four boys, aged 11 to 15, at their home in Atherstone as well as on a nearby golf course and surrounding woodland. The couple befriended their victims and, once they had their trust, proceeded to sexually abuse them. The offences were reported to the police when one of the victims attended a child sexual exploitation course and realised what the defendants had done to him was a criminal act.
Convicted of nine counts of indecent assault on a boy under the age of 16 years and five counts of outraging public decency after a three-week trial. Found not guilty of two counts of indecent assault on a boy aged under 16.
Tony Wadsworth
Indecent assault on a boy under 16 and outraging public decency *
Sentence
5 years imprisonment
Between 1992 and 1999, Tony Wadsworth and his wife abused four boys, aged 11 to 15, at their home in Atherstone as well as on a nearby golf course and surrounding woodland. The couple befriended their victims and, once they had their trust, proceeded to sexually abuse them. The offences were reported to the police when one of the victims attended a child sexual exploitation course and realised what the defendants had done to him was a criminal act.
Convicted of nine counts of indecent assault on a boy aged under 16 and five counts of outraging public decency after a three-week trial.
Steven Grant
Robbery *
Sentence
four-and-a-half years imprisonment
In October 2016, Steven Grant, who had been staying at his father's home on and off, broke into the garage while his father Michael Grant was out getting food around 6.30pm. Upon returning, Michael found the garage door damaged. Inside, he encountered Steven, who was under the influence of drugs (cocaine addiction since age 14), acting aggressively and holding a knife with the blade pointed towards his father. Steven demanded money, receiving £15 initially, then followed his father upstairs still armed, leading Michael to throw his £1,000-£1,200 watch at him out of fear. Steven took the items and left through the front door. Michael called the police, but Steven returned to the garage, prompting Michael to flee to a neighbour's. Police arrested Steven inside the address.
Pleaded guilty. Judge noted father's pleas for leniency but followed sentencing guidelines due to defendant's long history of difficulties and prior convictions. Addiction to cocaine cited as factor but did not diminish responsibility.
May 2017 8 cases
Stephen Weeks
Murder *
Sentence
Life imprisonment with minimum term of 16 years
Stephen Weeks and Drew Thorpe held a grudge against Lee Brooks and planned the murder. During the early hours of August 26, 2016, they attacked him at Weeks' home in Hugh Road, Stoke, using weapons including a spanner and hammer, causing severe head and body injuries. Brooks was found in a bedroom, received first aid, was taken to hospital, and died on August 31, 2016.
Found guilty of murder. Denied intent to cause death and blamed co-defendant. Judge comments not specified.
Drew Thorpe
Murder *
Sentence
Life imprisonment with minimum term of 12 years
Stephen Weeks and Drew Thorpe held a grudge against Lee Brooks and planned the murder. During the early hours of August 26, 2016, they attacked him at Weeks' home in Hugh Road, Stoke, using weapons including a spanner and hammer, causing severe head and body injuries. Brooks was found in a bedroom, received first aid, was taken to hospital, and died on August 31, 2016.
Found guilty of murder. Denied intent to cause death and blamed co-defendant. Fled the scene upon police arrival. Judge comments not specified.
Liam Timms
Possessing a firearm with intent to endanger life *
Sentence
17 years imprisonment
In October 2016, Liam Timms was involved in a shooting inside a Seat Leon car near Coventry’s War Memorial Park. Ross White, in the front passenger seat, was shot in the forearm and thigh, left staggering on Coat of Arms Bridge Road crying for help. Timms, who sustained a shotgun wound to his hand, sought treatment at Warwick Hospital A&E accompanied by Jason Cornwall, but left when informed he would be transferred to University Hospital in Coventry where White was taken. He later attended Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham under a false name. The car was set alight in Wathen Road, Warwick, but not fully destroyed; Timms’s blood was found on the rear off-side door, White’s on the near-side rear door, and a partly-melted unfired shotgun cartridge was discovered. The shotgun, speculated to be sawn-off, was never recovered. Timms denied possessing a firearm with intent to endanger life.
Found guilty by unanimous verdict after trial. Judge Andrew Lockhart QC stated it was not an accident and likely premeditated use of the shotgun to endanger life.
Robert Burbery
Causing serious injury by dangerous driving *
Sentence
2 years imprisonment suspended for 2 years, 240 hours unpaid work, disqualified for 4 years
On June 29, 2016, Robert Burbery drove a Transit van the wrong way up the slip-road off the A45 at Ryton-on-Dunsmore, turning right against clear give way and left turn only signs at the junction. He collided head-on with Carly Wood's Toyota Aygo, causing her severe injuries including a fractured vertebra, fractured ribs, leg and hand injuries, a lacerated spleen, ligament damage, and extensive bruising. She was hospitalized for seven days, wore a neck brace for 12 weeks, and has been left with scars on her right leg. The crash has affected her confidence as a driver and her financial situation.
Pleaded guilty. Judge Recorder Michael Burrows QC noted it was a very bad case of not seeing clear signs but no aggravating circumstances and accepted he genuinely missed the sign. Deeply regretted the incident according to his barrister.
Craig Sheen
Breach of Sexual Offences Prevention Order *
Sentence
12 months imprisonment
Craig Sheen, a convicted paedophile, repeatedly breached the conditions of his Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO) by possessing an internet-enabled mobile phone. In January 2017, he contacted a woman through an app on his phone while using the PlentyMoreFish dating site. He was arrested following allegations made by the woman after they met, and his phone was seized. This breach occurred despite prior convictions and sentences for similar violations.
Pleaded guilty to breaching conditions of the Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO). Fourth breach of the order. Judge Andrew Lockhart QC noted the defendant's history of breaches and assessed him as someone who will cause sexual harm if not restrained. Defendant had spent four months in custody on remand.
Lewis Walker
Sexual activity with a child *
Sentence
three-year community sentence
Lewis Walker, aged 19, engaged in sexual activity with two 13-year-old girls in 2015, despite knowing one was 13 and claiming he believed the other was 16. He admitted the first girl asked for sex and he agreed, though claimed they only kissed. Police seized his phone revealing web searches for under-age girls and 11 indecent images of girls aged 11 to 15. While on bail, he borrowed a phone and messaged a 14-year-old girl asking her to meet for sex, to which she responded negatively. He failed to attend trial in February 2017, leading to arrest and remand, and changed pleas to guilty thereafter. Post-plea, he faced abuse and intimidation, requiring police assistance to move.
Ordered to take part in a sex offender programme for up to 100 days and a rehabilitation activity for 40 days; to register as a sex offender for two-and-a-half years. Pleaded guilty to two charges of sexual activity with a child after initially denying them; previously admitted two charges of making indecent images of children and one of inciting a child to engage in sexual activity. Judge noted he would have been jailed but for the offences occurring in 2015.
Aadil Choudhury
Dangerous driving *
Sentence
10 months imprisonment suspended for 2 years
On Sunday February 21, 2016, at 7.15pm, police had reports of a car acting suspiciously in Beauchamp Road, Leamington. An officer approached the Fiesta and noticed a strong smell of cannabis. Aadil Choudhury admitted he had just smoked a spliff. He suddenly reversed away from the officer, drove onto the pavement to pass 'road closed' signs, headed towards Kenilworth Road and the A452. Driving with lights off, he overtook cars on the wrong side of the road at up to 70mph in a 40mph limit. He turned onto the A46 Kenilworth by-pass, switched across lanes weaving between traffic at around 100mph. He then swerved onto the slip-road at Stoneleigh junction, lost control, veered across the grass verge back onto the A46 and across all three lanes before crashing into the central barrier. He did not hit any other cars. He panicked because he had been smoking cannabis.
Pleaded guilty to dangerous driving. Ordered to do 100 hours of unpaid work, pay £120 costs, and banned from driving for three years. Delay in case due to prior drugs case where he was fined for possessing £255 worth of cannabis.
Ian Mccauley
Making indecent images of children *
Sentence
10 months imprisonment
In July 2016, West Midlands Police identified indecent videos of children being distributed via peer-to-peer software. A trace led to an IP address leased to Ian McCauley's address in Charminster Drive, Styvechale, Coventry, where he was the sole occupier. In October 2016, a warrant was executed at his home, he was arrested, and his computer was seized. Officers found 45 category A movies showing penetrative sex acts on children from infants to age 12, including a shocking video of a baby girl aged 10-18 months being digitally penetrated and raped by an adult male while in pain and crying. There were also seven category B images of non-penetrative sex acts and 87 category C images of children in naked or indecent poses. McCauley made full admissions in interview and admitted to developing an interest about ten years prior.
Pleaded guilty to three charges of making indecent images of children. Ordered to register as a sex offender for ten years and made subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for eight years. Judge noted it was a very bad case involving a shocking video of a baby being raped.
April 2017 5 cases
Daniel Bourke
Wounding with intent *
Sentence
10 years extended sentence
On August 26, 2016, Daniel Bourke, aged 46, stabbed his 34-year-old partner Andene Harvey at least 20 times during a drunken argument at her home in Leamington, following mutual excessive alcohol consumption. The attack caused severe internal injuries including haemorrhaging around the spleen, liver, and gall bladder, penetrating wounds to the liver and right kidney, neck wounds possibly injuring the thyroid gland, a hole in the small intestine, and a shoulder stab that fractured the scapula and bent the knife. Bourke called 999 after the incident; Harvey was found bleeding profusely in the bathroom and was rushed to University Hospital in Coventry, where she underwent surgery and remained in an induced coma for three weeks. The relationship had a history of mutual violence, primarily initiated by Harvey, including a recent assault on Bourke for which she was awaiting charges. On the day, both were heavily intoxicated from morning drinking; defence claimed self-defence after Harvey attempted to stab Bourke and herself, but prosecution noted Bourke retrieved the knife from the kitchen before using it.
Pleaded guilty to wounding with intent; not guilty plea to attempted murder accepted. Judge concluded dangerousness provisions apply due to risk of reoffending in similar circumstances involving alcohol and relationships.
Paramjit Singh
Theft *
Sentence
12 months imprisonment
On February 27, 2016, Paramjit Singh arrived at the Co-op distribution centre on Prologis Park in Coventry in his Renault articulated lorry. He presented false paperwork and was loaded with 12 pallets of Famous Grouse whisky worth £161,000. The theft was arranged via a fake call from a supposed supplier claiming an issue with a batch of whisky that needed to be returned. Singh drove away with the load and delivered it to a layby near Coventry where three men altered his number plates, unloaded the goods, and paid him £500 in cash. The theft was discovered on March 8, 2016, when the real supplier confirmed they had not requested the return. It was partly an inside job, but no further action was taken against three suspended employees.
Pleaded guilty to theft but claimed no knowledge of the goods or their value, which was not accepted by the prosecution. Judge Richard Griffith-Jones rejected the argument for a suspended sentence.
Rohan Mcerlean
Burglary *
Sentence
40 months imprisonment
Rohan McErlean, 34, of Vincent Street, Coventry, went on a burglary spree including five burglaries at Samoan Joe’s Tiki Bar in Spon Street, Coventry, taking cash, alcohol, and electrical items. On February 6, he broke into the flat above the bar occupied by a soldier who was away, stealing watches, footwear, electrical items, aftershave, and documents including treasured certificates. He also participated in burglary at Akbars Indian Cuisine restaurant in The Butts, Coventry, on January 22, and The Railway Bar and Grill in Spon End on February 10, stealing cash and alcohol. Additionally, he burgled Atkins and Barker electrical repair shop in Albany Road, Earlsdon, stealing batteries, electrical items, and cash.
Pleaded guilty to eight charges of burglary. Had 42 convictions for 92 offences, including prior burglary at Atkins and Barker. Consumed by class A drugs, lost conscience due to desperation after relationship breakdown and death of close relative. Judge noted they were out of control due to drug addictions and daily stealing to feed them. Most serious burglary was into soldier's flat, stealing prized certificates possibly signed by the Queen.
David Casey
Burglary *
Sentence
27 months imprisonment
David Casey, 34, of Windsor Street, Coventry, participated in a burglary spree with Rohan McErlean. On January 22, they broke into Akbars Indian Cuisine restaurant in The Butts, Coventry, while closed, but found nothing to steal. They then targeted Atkins and Barker electrical repair shop in Albany Road, Earlsdon, forcing open metal shutters to steal batteries, electrical items, and cash. On February 10, they broke into The Railway Bar and Grill in Spon End while the manager was on premises, stealing cash and alcohol.
Admitted three charges of burglary. Had 21 convictions for 47 offences, mainly theft but including some burglary. Life described as 'manic' at the time; since remanded in custody, taken steps to deal with chaotic lifestyle. Judge noted they were out of control due to drug addictions and daily stealing to feed them.
Gary Jones
Attempted murder *
Sentence
25 years imprisonment with a five-year licence extension
On July 16, 2016, Gary Jones, aged 27, was drinking with friends in a house on Whitmore Park Road, Coventry, having consumed a large amount of alcohol. Two good samaritans, who had been walking home after a night out, saw an upset young woman in pyjamas on the road, comforted her, and escorted her back to the house. When the door was opened by the woman's mother, Jones ran out carrying a large kitchen knife. The female victim tried to calm him and take the knife, but he stabbed her in the face. When her male friend came to her aid, Jones stabbed him multiple times in the neck, back, and head. Neighbours called emergency services, and the victims were hospitalized with life-changing injuries. Jones fled but later handed himself in to the police.
Pleaded guilty to wounding with intent and having an article with a blade; found guilty of attempted murder of the male victim.
March 2017 5 cases
Assa Brown
Fraudulent benefit claims *
Sentence
4 months imprisonment suspended for 2 years with 12 months supervision and 200 hours unpaid work
Assa Brown, of Wordsworth Avenue, Warwick, fraudulently claimed £21,731 in housing benefit, £2,233 in council tax benefit, and £3,114 in jobseeker's allowance over four years from October 2010, despite receiving a divorce settlement exceeding £250,000 and £250 weekly rental income from a property purchased with settlement funds. She failed to declare her changed circumstances, including property ownership and income, and made false declarations. Initially legitimate, claims became fraudulent one month after receiving the settlement. During interview, she lied about the source of funds, claiming they were loans from her father. She has a law degree, prior employment as general manager of 12 shops, and history of heavy drinking post-divorce but sober for two years. She has shared custody of her daughter and has repaid £4,640 of the overclaimed amount.
Pleaded guilty to failing to notify a change in circumstances and two charges of making false statements to obtain benefits. Ordered to repay benefits. Judge noted she still possesses significant assets and any breach would result in custody.
Ian Giles
Burglary *
Sentence
2 years and 5 months imprisonment
Ian Giles committed two burglaries in February 2016 in Coventry. In the first, he entered a house in Narberth Way, Wood End, around lunchtime on a Sunday while a woman was upstairs with her two young children. She confronted him, and he fled. She bravely followed him by car to the car park of the Hotel Premiere Classe in Wigston Road, where she photographed him after he claimed he was seeking directions. In the second burglary, he broke into a guest's room at the hotel, stealing a television and a phone charger, as captured on CCTV. The victim's photo and CCTV footage led to his identification and arrest.
Pleaded guilty to two burglaries. As a 'three strikes' burglar with 45 prior burglary convictions, facing a minimum of three years minus credit for guilty plea. Sentenced by Recorder Michelle Heeley QC, who noted the terrifying impact on the victim at home with her children.
Ryan Wood
Dangerous driving *
Sentence
8 months imprisonment and disqualified from driving for 5 years
On December 30, 2016, Ryan Wood, 28, from Turberville Place, Warwick, left a nightclub in Leamington in the early hours despite being drunk and warnings from door staff who notified police. Officers found him in his car and warned him not to drive, but at around 2am he drove off. He was observed driving at 70mph in dense fog over a bridge in Emscote Road, overtaking on the wrong side of the road. Officers lost him briefly due to weather but caught up and stopped him. As they exited their vehicle, Wood reversed into the police car, causing the door to clip an officer's shoulder, resulting in bruising. He was arrested, swore at officers, and at the station refused a breath test and interview.
Pleaded guilty to dangerous driving and failing to provide a specimen. Prior convictions for driving with excess alcohol in 2010 and disqualified for 40 months in 2013 for driving while unfit through drink or drugs. Judge commented that the public cannot be expected to meet drunk drivers on foggy nights driving too fast on the wrong side of the road.
O’Neill Gill
Having a dog which caused injury while dangerously out of control *
Sentence
12-month conditional discharge
On April 27, 2016, O’Neill Gill was walking his Rottweiler dog, Rottie, on a lead along Nunts Lane, Holbrooks, Coventry, shortly after 4pm as children were heading home from a nearby school. Without warning, the dog bit a 10 or 11-year-old schoolgirl on her right forearm, causing bruising, before being pulled away by Gill. Minutes later, a teacher from the school approached Gill and asked if the dog was friendly; Gill replied that he used to think so. The dog then jumped up and bit the teacher on the forearm, causing four puncture wounds requiring hospital treatment. The dog had no prior history of aggressive behaviour, possibly provoked by children from the school throwing stones at it previously. The dog was seized by police and later put down at Gill’s request.
Pleaded guilty to two charges of having a dog which caused injury while dangerously out of control. Ordered to pay £250 compensation to each of the victims. Dog put down at his request.
Stuart Hawkings
Breaching court orders *
Sentence
16 months imprisonment
Stuart Hawkings persistently breached court orders by contacting his former partner Nicola Hayes, with whom he shares a young child, including driving past her home, phoning her, using social media to make allegations, and contacting her from prison the day before his release on December 14, 2016. This followed the end of their relationship in 2010, leading to a non-molestation order and later a restraining order. Previous breaches resulted in a conditional discharge in January 2016, a 12-week suspended sentence in June 2016 (activated with additional 10 weeks), and 12 weeks imprisonment in November 2016. On December 29, 2016, further breaches prompted police involvement and his arrest.
Pleaded guilty to two charges of breaching court orders. Prior convictions for 13 offences in relation to his ex-partner taken into account. Judge commented on psychological violence and need to protect former partner.
February 2017 2 cases
Thomas Entwistle
Controlling a child prostitute and supplying cocaine *
Sentence
11 years imprisonment
In 2014, Thomas Entwistle, 26, from Napton, befriended and groomed a vulnerable 17-year-old girl from Leamington who was in care and had turned to prostitution. He teamed up with Martin Cantle to control her, forcing her to work as a prostitute up to 20 clients a night, keeping all earnings (up to £500 per night), supplying her with cocaine to make her addicted and pliable, and treating her inhumanely, including having regular sex with her himself before sending her out. They picked her up from her carer's and dropped her back, controlled her life entirely, and ignored her pleas to stop. Evidence showed plans to exploit other young girls in Coventry's Hillfields area.
Found guilty by jury. Ordered to register as sex offender for life and subject to sexual harm prevention order restricting contact with girls under 16. Judge noted grooming, drug supply, and inhuman treatment of the victim.
Martin Cantle
Controlling a child prostitute and supplying cocaine *
Sentence
11 years imprisonment
In 2014, Martin Cantle, 24, from Coventry, partnered with Thomas Entwistle to prey on a vulnerable 17-year-old girl from Leamington who was in care and had absconded, forcing her into prostitution for financial gain. They controlled her every move, supplied her with cocaine to addict her, made her work up to 20 clients a night earning £500 which they kept, put her in dangerous situations, and used threats and violence to prevent escape. Cantle first suggested prostituting her when short of money, supported by Entwistle. They treated her as property and planned to exploit other young girls in Coventry's Hillfields area.
Found guilty by jury. Ordered to register as sex offender for life and subject to sexual harm prevention order restricting contact with girls under 16. Described as the 'puppet-master' who first raised the idea of prostitution. Judge noted grooming, drug supply, and inhuman treatment of the victim.

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Newbold Terrace, Leamington Spa CV32 4EL, Leamington Spa, CV32 4EL, United Kingdom
+441926682411
Wheelchair accessible entrance

About Warwick Crown Court

Warwick Crown Court, located in Leamington Spa, is a Crown Court that handles serious criminal cases including murder, rape, robbery, and other indictable offences. With 309 sentencing records in our database, it is one of the Crown Courts serving the Leamington Spa area. Crown Courts sit with a judge and jury, and have the power to impose the full range of sentences available under UK law.

The court can be found at Newbold Terrace, Leamington Spa CV32 4EL, CV32 4EL.

Accessibility provisions at this court include wheelchair accessible entrance.

For enquiries about cases heard at this court, you can contact the court by telephone on +441926682411.

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

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