These 60 Merseyside criminals were jailed over the last month
A takeaway owner who was unmasked as a predatory sex offender, a masseuse who indecently assaulted his clients and a carer who blinded a mum with her stilettos were among the Merseyside criminals jailed this month. Also locked up were 31 men who became embroiled in rioting in Southport, Liverpool city centre and Walton.
Meanwhile, Liverpool Crown Court[1] heard that "cowardly" van driver sped through a red light and struck an elderly jogger before leaving him dying in the street. Here are the faces of 60 criminals from our region who were imprisoned during August.
Gary Toomey
Gary Toomey -Credit:Merseyside Police
A man killed his ex-girlfriend[2] by "yanking" on the handbrake of her Audi as she drove on the motorway after a "feeling in his gut exploded". Victoria Bell died aged 34 after her vehicle crashed into the central reservation of the M62, being struck by another car as she attempted to flee to safety on the hard shoulder.
It came after she and her "on off" partner Gary Toomey had rowed while attending a music festival. The 37-year-old claims that his fatal actions were a "spontaneous reaction to stop the car in order to get away from the ongoing argument" and says he "was not intending to cause any harm".
Toomey admitted manslaughter. He was jailed for seven years and four months, a term of which he must serve at least two thirds behind bars.
David Tilici
David Tilici -Credit:Merseyside Police
A thug left his own month-old son[3] with life threatening injuries after hitting the baby in the face. David Tilici subjected the youngster to an appalling attack in a Liverpool city centre[4] hotel when his partner had left their room in order to visit McDonald's.
The baby boy's mum watched on in horror when she saw his face bloodied and bruised during a video call before rushing to his aid. Members of staff even feared that the tiny child had died due to the severity of his injuries.
Tilici was found guilty of inflicting grievous bodily harm with intent. Appearing via video link to HMP Altcourse he was jailed for 10 years - of which he must serve at least two thirds before becoming eligible for release - and handed restraining orders preventing him from contacting his former partner and baby indefinitely.
Stephen Earle
Stephen Earle, from Crosby, pleaded guilty to four drugs supply charges at Liverpool Crown Court -Credit:NCA
EncroChat dealer "OctoHand" went on the run[5] to Portugal as police were closing in on him. Stephen Earle travelled abroad in July 2020 and remained there to avoid capture after the National Crime Agency arrested other gang members in March 2021.
The 52-year-old worked closely with his cousin Terence Earle, using the encrypted communications platform to run their criminal enterprise with the help of subordinates Stanley Feerick and Lee Baxter. The relatives trafficked at least 10 kilos of heroin and seven kilos of cocaine, with the former being moved from Merseyside to Motherwell in Scotland and the latter in the opposite direction.
Earle was arrested by the Polícia Judiciária in Faro in January this year and returned to the UK in March. He pleaded guilty to four drugs supply charges and was sentenced to 11 years and four months.
William Farrell
William Farrell, of Aigburth Road, Sefton Park -Credit:Merseyside Police
A man made a stupid mistake[6] at the scene of a crime which led him to being caught. William Farrell was seen on CCTV approaching the front doors of 23 properties and trying their door handles during the early hours.
When he found the door was locked, he moved on to the next house and tried again. But the 30-year-old dropped his phone at one of the locations, leading to his arrest.
Farrell admitted 11 counts of attempted burglary and asked for a further 12 attempted burglary offences to be taken into consideration. He was jailed for two years.
Chrosphero Caballero
Chrosphero Caballero -Credit:Merseyside Police
A "trusted and skilled" masseuse has been unmasked as a "sexual predator"[7]. Chrosphero Caballero, sports massage business, has been locked up after sexually assaulting a number of his clients over the course of several years.
He was said to have "built up their confidence" in his professional abilities before cynically abusing them. A judge today told the 38-year-old that he had hidden "another side" of his character away from his public persona.
Caballero was found guilty of five counts of sexual assault by a jury. Wearing a blue suit jacket over a white shirt in the dock, he waved to a supporter in the public gallery as he was led down to the cells after being jailed for four years.
Paul Whitfield
Paul Whitfield was jailed for seven years and four months for causing death by dangerous driving at Liverpool Crown Court -Credit:Merseyside Police
A mindless driver who spent seven hours in the pub was so drunk he did not realise he had run over a person lying prone in the road until the police knocked at his door. Paul Whitfield embarked on an all-day drinking session before he got back behind the wheel of his car to go home.
The 54-year-old was said to have been so intoxicated that he failed to notice Adam Cunliffe, an animal technician, lying prone in the road. Whitfield ploughed his car into the 21-year-old, who had tripped into the road, before dragging his body under his car for 1km in front of horrified onlookers.
He pleaded guilty to a single count of causing death by dangerous driving. The killer driver was jailed for seven years and four months.
Joseph Howard and Lewis Cull
Lewis Cull and Joseph Howard -Credit:Cheshire Police
Two thugs destroyed a man's life after beating him so badly he had to be put in an induced coma. Joseph Howard and Lewis Cull attacked their victim after an argument broke out inside an address in Ellesmere Port, repeatedly punching and kicking him as well as attacking him with a bottle.
They then fled the scene, leaving him with serious injuries which required hospital treatment. It was later discovered the assault, which had been videoed and shared locally, was believed to be because the victim had messaged the mum of the girlfriend of an associate.
Howard and Cull pleaded guilty to wounding with intent. The former was sentenced to 10 years in prison plus an extended licence period of five years, while Cull received seven-and-a-half years.
Derek Drummond
Derek Drummond -Credit:Merseyside Police
Derek Drummond, of Pool Street in Southport, punched a police officer in the face as violent scenes unfolded in Southport[8] following the fatal stabbings of six-year-old Bebe King, seven-year-old Elsie Dot Stancombe and nine-year-old Alice DaSilva Aguiar[9]. The 58-year-old was said to have attempted to "attack and break through a cordon" before throwing a brick at the emergency service workers.
After handing himself in at Copy Lane Police Station on August 3, he responded to his arrest by branding himself "a fool" and saying that he was "holding his hands up". Under interview, Drummond told detectives that he was "deeply sorry to the people he had let down".
He stated that he had attended a vigil the day after the killing, but "accepted confronting the police" - adding that he "couldn't offer any explanation" and that "tensions were very high", but saying that his "behaviour was appalling". Drummond pleaded guilty to violent disorder and assaulting an emergency services worker and was handed three years behind bars.
Declan Geiran
Declan Geiran -Credit:Merseyside Police
Declan Geiran formed part of a "large group of males" who "attacked and damaged" a police van which had been parked near to St George's Hall, including attempting to tip the vehicle over, when widespread trouble flared in Liverpool city centre A video which was later posted on TikTok showed the 29-year-old, of Kelso Road in Kensington[10], beside the open driver's window and setting a seatbelt on fire before smoke was seen billowing from the cab.
CCTV footage captured him thereafter "remaining at the scene" and "sitting casually on the fountain outside the Walker Art Gallery watching the police van", which was written off as a result of damage caused during the incident. He then filmed the scenes on his mobile phone as he left the area.
Geiran was however arrested after being "easily identified by his backpack, clothing and tattoos", with lighters being seized from him upon his detention. Under interview, he told detectives that he had attended the protests alone as he "wanted to show his support for the bereaved families".
Christopher Taylor, prosecuting, added: "He stated that he saw the van and heard shouts of 'burn the van'. He said he was told to burn a book under the seat. He didn't, but set fire to the seatbelt.
"He stated that he felt under pressure and that he did not believe his actions had caused the damage. He stated that he had not gone out to act violently and denied any negative thoughts on immigration or political issues."
Geiran admitted violent disorder and arson. He was locked up for 30 months.
Liam Riley
Liam Riley -Credit:Merseyside Police
Liam Riley, of Walton[11] Road, was said to have been "clearly drunk" and called one officer a "traitor and a Muslim lover" during the disorder. While later being transported to Merseyside Police's Wirral[12] Custody Suite, he continued his tirade of abuse and "made a number of negative comments about immigrants and Muslims and made comments that both were to blame for the tragedy in Southport[13]".
The 41-year-old was subsequently found to be in possession of a poster bearing the message "this is our city", having been wearing a St George's flag around his neck during the incident. Under interview, Riley said that he "heard about a protest at the Pier Head and went to show solidarity and support for the bereaved parents".
Having been moved on from the area, he then "went drinking in four or five bars" and "recalled a last pint at Ranelagh’s Tavern" before re-joining the crowds and "telling officers to put their batons down and go home". Mr Taylor added: "The defendant said that he was not part of any particular group, he just followed the evolving situation.
"He could not explain why he returned, having been moved on from the Pier Head. He describes that he was on his own, but was well aware of the missiles being thrown. He stated that he did not like illegals coming over and did not provoke violence or threaten anyone."
Riley pleaded guilty to violent disorder and racially aggravated threatening behaviour. He was jailed for 20 months.
John O'Malley
John O'Malley, 43, of Cambridge Gardens in Southport -Credit:Merseyside Police
John O'Malley, also of Cambridge Gardens, pleaded guilty to violent disorder. The 43-year-old was said to have been "active in and at the hear of the violence", including being shown on camera footage beside a police carrier as the bumper was pulled off and hurled towards officers.
O'Malley was locked up for 32 months at Liverpool Crown Court. The Honorary Recorder of Liverpool Judge Andrew Menary KC described him as being "at the front of what was essentially a baying mob" during his sentencing remarks.
William Morgan
William Morgan, of Linton Street in Walton, admitted violent disorder and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place in connection with the disturbance on County Road. The 69-year-old armed himself with a wooden bat and formed "part of a large mob".
When arrested, he responded by "kicking out and swearing". A video which was played to the court captured him ranting "f***ing arseholes, I’m f***ing 70 mate" as he was struck with officers' riot shields.
He then added: "I’m gonna die here. I’m English, I’m English. Stop it, I’m gonna die. Get off me. I’m f***ing 70 years of age. F*** off. F***ing get off me. Ah you c***, f*** off. I’m gonna die. You’re gonna kill me. I’m f***ing 70 years of age. F*** off. I’m trying to go home. F***s sake. You don’t know what I have been through. I have been pepper sprayed."
Morgan has no previous convictions. He was jailed for 32 months.
Adam and Ellis Wharton
William Morgan, 69 and of Linton Street in Walton
Brothers Adam and Ellis Wharton, both of Selwyn Street in Kirkdale[14], admitted burglary with intent to steal at Spellow Library. Mr Taylor told Liverpool Crown Court[15]: "At about 2am, officers were alerted by the National Police Air Service that persons had entered that library.
"PC [Thomas] Nielsen entered the library and saw Ellis Wharton in possession of a computer monitor. He was told to put it down and he did. He was told he would be arrested. Once secured, he said 'I'm sorry, I’ve been blackmailed by my brother to do it and made a stupid decision. I’m sorry'."
Adam Wharton -Credit:Merseyside Police
Adam Wharton was then detained on nearby Dunluce Street, having been circulated as wanted after "acting as a lookout". The 28-year-old was found in possession of a balaclava at this time while "sweating profusely".
Ellis Wharton, 22, told detectives under interview that his brother had "knocked on his door asking him to go out with him" with the "indication that they would go looting". Mr Taylor added: "Adam, he said, kept a lookout while he entered. The plan was to take monitors to sell. He denied any violence or disorder and simply stated that they joined the group to loot."
Adam Wharton was jailed for 20 months. Ellis Wharton, who also pleaded guilty to assaulting an emergency services worker, was imprisoned for 11 months.
Jordan Davies
Ellis Wharton -Credit:Merseyside Police
Balaclava clad Jordan Davies brandished a weapon near to the scene of a vigil for the victims of the Southport knife attacks then claimed that his daughter had been "stabbed up". Just over 24 hours on from the fatal stabbings, children and families fled in terror after he was spotted carrying a flick knife a mere matter of minutes away from the scene.
One terrified dad even asked for his family to be locked inside a shop as the incident unfolded. Following his arrest, the mindless thug maintained that he had found the weapon while urinating near to a Tesco[16] Express store after downing cans of cider and said he was intending to hand the item in to the police.
Davies admitted possession of a bladed article in a public place and breaching a suspended sentence order. Appearing in the dock wearing a grey prison issue tracksuit and wearing short dark hair, he nodded as he was jailed for two years.
A previous 16-week suspended sentence which was previously imposed upon him in June was also activated in full and ordered to run consecutively to this term, leading to a total sentence of two years and 16 weeks. Davies was meanwhile handed a serious violence reduction order, which will commence upon his release and last for two years thereafter, with forfeiture and destruction of the knife being ordered.
Nathan Nash
Jordan Davies -Credit:Merseyside Police
A man drunkenly kicked a police officer in the chest while shouting "you f***ing nonce, you're a f***ing pig". Nathan Nash lashed out at two PCs who subsequently found him in possession of a small kitchen knife.
The 32-year-old admitted assaulting an emergency worker, possession of a bladed article in a public place, criminal damage, theft, failing to comply with notification requirements, possession of cannabis and failure to surrender to court bail. He was jailed for 36 weeks.
Dylan Carey
Nathan Nash, of no fixed abode, formerly of Ribblesdale Close, Eastham -Credit:Merseyside police
A dad-to-be attended a vigil for the victims of the Southport stabbings to "lay flowers and light a candle" with his pregnant girlfriend, but instead ended up hurling a tin of paint at the police. As a result of his involvement in the violent scenes in Southport, he will now miss the birth of his child.
Dylan Carey, who was seen blowing kisses to his supporters in the public gallery during the hearing, admitted violent disorder. Wearing a white shirt and black tie in the dock, he was jailed for 18 months as his partner sat in tears with her head in her hands.
Christopher Taggart and Rhys McDonald
Two men stirred up racial hatred on Facebook[17] as incidents of violent disorder were sparked in Merseyside and across the UK. Christopher Taggart and Rhys McDonald, from Runcorn, posted messages containing racial abuse and encouraging others to engage in racial hatred. They were sentenced to 32 months and 28 months respectively after admitting publishing written material to stir up racial hatred.
Philip Prescott
Dylan Carey -Credit:Merseyside Police
Philip Prescott was seen on CCTV and video footage captured by a police helicopter taking items out of a bin and hurling them towards police officers before "others followed suit" during the disorder in Southport[18]. The 38-year-old then "dragged another wheelie bin" towards a cordon formed by PCs before removing further objects and throwing them.
He subsequently kicked the wall of a residential property and climbed into the garden before running towards officers in possession of a brick, which he "launched towards" them. Prescott - who thereafter returned to the damaged wall once more and threw further bricks, including at the window of a police van - admitted violent disorder and gave a thumbs up to the public gallery as he was led down to the cells, having received 28 months in prison.
Gareth Metcalfe
Christopher Taggart (left) and Rhys McDonald (right)
Gareth Metcalfe "remonstrated" and "pointed and shouted at officers", being described as being "at the front of the action" during the Southport riot. The 44-year-old's criminal record shows 21 previous convictions for 31 offences between 1995 and 2021 including for “religiously aggravated assault”, sexual assault in 2016, a racially-aggravated public order offence in 2019 and harassment and breach of a non-molestation order during 2019 and 2020.
The court heard of one arrest in January 2019 “against a background of domestic abuse” which saw the window cleaner “start to struggle” when officers attempted to detain him before calling them “Muslim protectors and Muslim sh**gers". When a Probation Service worker subsequently attempted to call him in order to prepare a pre-sentence report in relation to his subsequent conviction, they received a voicemail recording of Metcalfe saying: “F*** Islam, leave a message."
He admitted violent disorder and nodded as he was handed 40 months. His dad told him "see you Gareth, love you" as he was escorted out of the courtroom, while his mum added: "It's over."
David Hill
Philip Prescott -Credit:Merseyside Police
David Hill was caught on a livestreamed TikTok video kicking the windscreen of a police van near to St George's Hall before another thug attempted to set the vehicle on fire as trouble flared in Liverpool city centre[19]. The 38-year-old was locked up for two years after admitting violent disorder. He then asked "how long did I get?" before adding "thank you" after being informed by a security guard.
Thomas Connelly
Gareth Metcalfe -Credit:Merseyside Police
A teenager was caught with a lock knife in his pocket in an area where a protest relating to the national riots was rumoured to take place. Thomas Connelly was observed by officers acting suspiciously on Orford Lane in Warrington[20], where patrols were being carried out due to the suspected demonstration.
He appeared to be videoing the location and was stopped and searched. The teenager then admitted to having a folding lock knife in his pocket.
Connelly pleaded guilty to possession of a bladed article in a public place. He was handed 26 weeks in a young offenders' institute.
Keith Giles
David Hill -Credit:Merseyside Police
A man hid a plank of wood down his shorts before attacking his neighbour with the makeshift weapon as he walked his dog in the early hours. Keith Giles' victim was left with his skull bone exposed after he sustained a gaping wound during the unprovoked assault.
The vicious incident came against the background of a long running feud between the two near neighbours. The "loner" was said to have "lost his temper" and told his adversary "I'm f***ing sick of you" before inflicting the gruesome injury.
Giles admitted wounding with intent and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place. Appearing in the dock wearing a black t-shirt and with a tattoo reading "believe" above his right eyebrow, he was jailed for two-and-a-half years.
George Clements
George Clements
A teenager went out for a meal in Liverpool city centre but got drunk and squared up to an old man, kicked a shopper and "gestured towards his penis" on a busy street. George Clements became embroiled in scenes of violence on Church Street only weeks after he had walked free from court for stealing and crashing a van while under the influence of drink and drugs.
He admitted affray and breaching a suspended sentence order. Clements nodded and smiled after he was jailed for two years, then waved to his supporters in the public gallery as he was led down to the cells.
Gerard Cooch
Keith Giles -Credit:Merseyside Police
Gerard Cooch, of Merton Road in Bootle[21], was seen on CCTV and mobile phone footage, which was subsequently posted to YouTube and TikTok, on Whitechapel. He was captured in a cap and sunglasses making "accusatory and hostile" remarks and "swearing and gesticulating" in the area, where a line of police had formed a cordon near to Queen Square Bus Station.
The "intoxicated and angry" 39-year-old then threw the contents of a pint glass he was holding over an officer and twice kicked out at shields being held by PCs. Cooch was arrested nearby around an hour later and told detectives under interview that he had been in the city centre in order to attend a "peaceful protest" but that the "atmosphere became more hostile".
He stated that he "regretted not removing himself from the area" and was "sorry for his involvement", having consumed three cans of cider during the course of the day. His criminal record shows seven previous convictions for 11 offences - including threatening behaviour, drunk and disorderly behaviour, production of cannabis, possession of cocaine and MDMA and breaching a suspended sentence order.
Stephen McNally, appearing on behalf of Cooch, said: "References speak of a man who, despite his difficulties, has sought to better himself. This is a gentleman who is partway through a degree course in criminology and psychology. The irony of that will not be lost on the court, I am sure.
Cooch admitted violent disorder. He was jailed for 20 months.
Curtis Faure
George Clements -Credit:Merseyside Police
Curtis Faure was captured in a single photograph "leaning back with a brick in his hand, about to throw it" on the Strand. The 19-year-old, of Thomas Lane in Broadgreen[22], handed himself in at Marsh Lane Police Station on the afternoon of August 8 after this image was circulated in the media by Merseyside Police.
He stated under interview that he "intended to go to Gravity Max when he heard about a riot on the Dock Road and wanted to see what was going on". Faure told detectives that he had been present for up to half an hour and "picked up a single brick and threw it at police officers", but said that the missile had not connected.
The teen added that he "could not provide an explanation why he behaved in that way" and maintained that his actions were not racially motivated, his parents originally being from South Africa. He has no previous convictions.
Faure admitted violent disorder. He was jailed for a year.
Tom Neblett
Gerard Cooch -Credit:Merseyside Police
Tom Neblett was caught on CCTV throwing missiles in the direction of police officers. The 20-year-old, of High Park Road in Southport, then climbed onto a van and repeatedly launched further objects at PCs.
He also threw a brick at the passenger side window of a police carrier while the driver was still inside before colleagues in riot gear removed him as he shielded his head with his hands. The thug was described as being at the "very forefront", having picked up a smoke flare and hurling it towards the line of officers.
Neblett admitted violent disorder. He was handed 30 months in a young offenders' institute.
Tony Hazlett
Curtis Faure -Credit:Merseyside Police
Tony Hazlett was captured on CCTV throwing two missiles in the direction of the police. When officers went to the 46-year-old's home on Bank Road in Bootle[23] on August 7, he was described as being "very drunk" and resisted arrest in a violent struggle. He later told police: "I'm sorry. I just did it because everyone was doing it."
Hazlett explained that he had travelled by train to Southport with friends and accepted he threw "two pieces of slate" before leaving shortly after. The dad-of-six admitted violent disorder and was jailed for 28 months on Thursday.
Paul Dryhurst
Paul Dryhurst, 33, of Gale Road in Litherland[24] was jailed for two years after admitting violent disorder[25]. Liverpool Crown Court heard how he "smiled in satisfaction" after hurling a missile at police, but was recognised by an officer he went to school with.
David Engleby
David Engleby was seen filming the violence in Southport on his mobile phone and chanting "Allah, Allah, who the f*** is Allah?". The 29-year-old, of Scarisbrick New Road in Southport, then "surged forward with the crowd" before picking a brick up from the floor and throwing it towards PCs.
He subsequently followed this up with a second "projectile". Engleby was identified from video footage provided to the police and handed himself in at Southport Police Station on August 12, having been circulated as wanted. Engleby nodded and gave a thumbs up after being locked up for 28 months.[26]
Luke Summerfield
Luke Summerfield, of Mansfield Street in Ashton-under-Lyne, Greater Manchester, was shown on footage "throwing a projectile towards the police" and then "with a group of males attacking an individual for an unknown reason", although he was said to be "in a more peace making role". The 29-year-old was previously handed a 21-month suspended prison sentence for conspiracy to produce cannabis in 2016. He was jailed for 26 months.
Joshua Jones
Tom Neblett -Credit:Merseyside Police
"Football hooligan" Joshua Jones claimed to have attended a three-mile charity walk in memory of the victims of the Southport stabbings before "things got out of hand". Joshua Jones repeatedly hurled missiles towards police officers as violent scenes unfolded in the seaside town.
Under interview, he "stated that he went to Southport to attend the vigil" and "referenced taking part in a three-mile charity walk to support the murdered children". Jones declined to watch any of the CCTV and said he "couldn't remember anything" due to his undiagnosed post-traumatic stress disorder, ADHD and autism.
Jones, who previously worked as the manager of a gym in Spain, admitted violent disorder, possession of an offensive weapon in a private place and breaching a suspended sentence order. His partner sat in tears in the public gallery as he was jailed for 38 months.
Andrew Jackson
Tony Hazlett -Credit:Merseyside Police
Andrew Jackson hurled 14 bottles at police before casually walking away from the scene, but tried to run when officers came knocking at his door two weeks later. He became embroiled within violent scenes which unfolded in Southport.
Under interview, Jackson "denied being any part of the violent disorder". However, in court, he admitted violent disorder and possession of cannabis. Appearing in the dock with a shaved head and sporting a grey Berghaus t-shirt, he was jailed for 32 months.
Luke Moran
Paul Dryhurst, 33, of Gale Road in Litherland jailed for two years after admitting violent disorder
Luke Moran smashed the window of a police van with a concrete slab as a PC sat in the driver's seat. A judge described his actions as being "as bad a case as he has seen" in relation to the riots.
The court heard how he took a "large piece of concrete" and began smashing the driver's side window with it while Police Constable James Hayes sat in the driver's seat. Moran, of Leybourne Avenue in Birkdale[27], then "began to try to rip the wing mirror off" and was later seen holding a "large chunk" of debris in his hands and, with "gritted teeth", raising the implement above his head and striking the window three times.
PC Hayes said he "feared for his life" and retreated into the back of the van. Moran was subsequently circulated as wanted by Merseyside Police and handed himself in at Copy Lane Police Station on August 14.
He gave a prepared statement under interview following his arrest saying that "he was sorry" and "he had no intent to cause serious injury or harm". Moran, who blew a kiss to his supporters in the public gallery at one stage during the hearing admitted violent disorder and was jailed for three years.
Nicholas Sinclair
David Engleby, 29, of Scarisbrick New Road in Southport, jailed for 28 months after admitting violent disorder
Nicholas Sinclair, of Bury Road, in Birkdale, hurled bricks towards police officers. He was seen "shouting towards the police and throwing missiles" including bricks, as well as "pointing and shouting" and "motioning for others to move forward into the surge of people as they pressed upon the police cordon".
The 38-year-old was later recorded "rummaging in bins and bin bags" in the street. Sinclair handed himself in at Copy Lane Police Station on August 14 after footage of him was released as part of a public appeal by the force. He was jailed for 28 months after admitting violent disorder.
Terry Godwin
Luke Summerfield, 29, of Mansfield Street in Ashton-under-Lyne, Greater Manchester, jailed for 26 months after admitting violent disorder
A vile sex offender sexually assaulted a young girl on hundreds of occasions and tried to buy her silence with cash. Terry Godwin's horrific crimes remained a dark secret for years.
His victim has been left with a "horrible shadow" lingering over her "for as long as she can remember" as a result of the countless assaults. Decades later, her abuser has finally been brought to justice.
Godwin admitted a total of 42 child sex offences including indecent assault and gross indecency with a child at Liverpool Crown Court. Appearing via video link to HMP Liverpool, he was jailed for seven years - of which he must serve at least two thirds before becoming eligible for release - and handed an additional year on licence.
Barry Simm
Joshua Jones -Credit:Merseyside Police
A cyclist told suspicious police officers he was on his way to buy weed before being caught with more than £700 worth of class A drugs. Barry Simm, of Gosford Street, Toxteth[28], was stopped by police while cycling around Dingle on July 31 last year.
He had £25 cash on him, and told the officers he was going to buy cannabis. The officers set their sights on him, and when they saw him again a short time later, they once again stopped him and found he had £45 in his possession. He then told them he had "white and brown on him".
Simm had 19 wraps of heroin on him with a street value of £380, and 33 wraps of crack cocaine with a value of £330. The 45-year-old, who has 27 past convictions for 45 offences including drug dealing, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply class A drugs. He was sentenced to three years and four months in prison.
Thomas Whitehead
Andrew Jackson -Credit:Merseyside Police
A rioter who hurled a missile towards the police flew home from a holiday in Greece and was sent straight to prison. Thomas Whitehead was arrested at an airport as he returned to the UK, having become embroiled within violent scenes which unfolded in Southport.
Whitehead, of Pool Street in the town, was "seen in and amongst the large group" and threw an item towards the cordon of officers and police vehicles at one stage. The 53-year-old was arrested on August 13 at Manchester Airport.
When interviewed, the dad-of-three told detectives that he had "been at a public house and noticed a large group gathering and went to see what was happening". Whitehead "accepted throwing an item" but said he "didn't believe it had hit any of the officers". He has 18 previous convictions for 47 offences between 1987 and 1998.
Whitehead admitted violent disorder. A woman in public gallery was heard saying "he never done nothing Tommy" as he was imprisoned for 20 months.
Daniel Carrigan
Luke Moran -Credit:Merseyside Police
Rioter Daniel Carrigan claimed he visited the seaside town to "pay his respects" to the victims but instead snorted cocaine and trashed a police van. The 41-year-old, of Preston Grove in Anfield[29], was seen kicking at a police van and throwing two items "one after the other" at one of its windows.
He handed himself in at St Anne Street Police Station on August 14 after being circulated as wanted. Under interview, he "accepted he was involved in the violent disorder and causing damage to the police carrier" and said he had taken the train to Southport "with the intention of paying his respects".
But, having taken cocaine and seen a "large crowd gathering", Carrigan stated he "got carried away and threw bottles" at the van. He added he "doesn't know why he got involved", but was "venting frustration at the government".
Carrigan, who made a love heart sign with his hands towards his supporters in the public gallery at one stage during the hearing, pleaded guilty to violent disorder and criminal damage. He nodded and said "thank you" after being jailed for 32 months, then added "love you mum, don't be angry, love yous all" as he was led to cells.
Jake Lowther
Nicholas Sinclair -Credit:Merseyside Police
A "well behaved and hard working" man ruined his life during one night of madness. Jake Lowther had never found himself in trouble with the police before he hurled missiles at officers.
Lowther, of Abrams Fold in Banks, was captured on video throwing "two pieces of rock or concrete" towards PCs and was "seen to be part of the mob as it moved towards officers". The 20-year-old then "appeared to meet up with another male and a female" and left the scene with them.
He was subsequently circulated as wanted by Merseyside Police and handed himself in at Copy Lane Police Station on August 11. Under interview following his arrest, Lowther told detectives he "threw a block of concrete" then "went back and threw stones" but had "no intention to hit anyone".
The landscape gardener added that he "got caught up in the moment", having travelled to Southport with friends by car to "drive past the vigil". He said they then "got wind of what was happening and got involved".
Lowther admitted violent disorder and was handed 18 months in a young offenders' institute. He nodded when his mum told him "love you, it's ok" as he was led to the cells, while she added "thank you, thank you" to the judge as she left the courtroom.
Nathan Knox
Terry Godwin -Credit:Merseyside Police
A heroin dealer who stashed drugs inside Kinder Eggs threw his ill-gotten gains to the floor after being caught red-handed. Nathan Knox was stopped by police officers on patrol in Warrington[30] on July 16 after they had been alerted to the problem of drug dealing in the area.
The 24-year-old, of Chesterfield Drive, Kirkby[31], was searched by the officers on Statham Avenue. They found two Kinder Eggs containing wraps of white and brown powder, and another large bag believed to contain drugs. Knox was arrested, and when he was, he threw £360 cash on the floor - which was also promptly seized. He was sentenced to 32 months in prison.
John Mozley and Ben Tyler
Barry Simm, of Gosford Street, Toxteth -Credit:Merseyside Police
Two shop workers burgled their own shop to cover up the fact they had been repeatedly stealing from its safe. John Mozley and Ben Tyler were employed as store manager and shop assistant respectively at Today's Extra on Thelwall New Road in Warrington[32] when they plotted the audacious scheme to hide the fact they had taken thousands of pounds, and were sentence to 30 months and two years and respectively.
Tommy Callaghan
A gas engineer who joined in racist chants and threw objects at police in Southport[33] has been jailed for two years and two months. Tommy Callaghan, 32, of Platt Bridge, Wigan, formed part of the "large and aggressive mob" on July 30 - chanting "who the f*** is Allah", surging through the cordon of police officers and launching a brick at a van.
Christopher Daly
Thomas Whitehead -Credit:Merseyside Police
A "cowardly" van driver sped through a red light and struck an elderly jogger before leaving him dying in the street. John Newton was out jogging on February 25 this year when he was hit by a Ford Transit van as he crossed Utting Avenue East in Norris Green[34].
The "fit and healthy" grandad, who still worked as a part-time mechanic, died in hospital aged 81 the following day as a result of his "catastrophic" injuries. Motorist Christopher Daly, who has been banned from the roads for more than 20 years, callously fled the scene of the crash then denied that he had been driving when the police came knocking at his door.
He was unanimously found guilty of causing death by dangerous driving by a jury of six men and six women, having previously admitted causing death by careless driving. He also pleaded guilty to causing death by driving while disqualified and uninsured and was jailed for 12 years.
Abdulrahman Al-Nomire
Daniel Carrigan -Credit:Merseyside Police
A takeaway owner collapsed to the floor as he was jailed after being unmasked as a predatory sex offender. Abdulrahman Al-Nomire "presented a wholesome face to the outside world", including being the founder of several community initiatives for kids and families.
But the businessman hid a secret past, having subjected a girl to years of sexual abuse when she was aged as young as five. He wept uncontrollably as he was finally brought to justice.
Al-Nomire was found guilty of three counts of sexual assault by a jury. Appearing via video link to HMP Liverpool, he put his head in his hands and began wailing when he was told that he would be required to sign the sex offenders' register for life and handed a restraining order and sexual harm prevention order - both lasting for 10 years.
The defendant became emotional to such an extent that Judge Brian Cummings KC called a break in proceedings midway through his sentencing remarks. Al-Nomire then fell off his chair in the video link booth and continued crying on the floor. Once court was reassembled, he was jailed for four-and-a-half years - a term of which he will be required to serve at least two thirds before becoming eligible for release - and handed an additional four years on licence.
Alan Murphy
Jake Lowther -Credit:Merseyside Police
An escaped prisoner who was found with a nail bomb, two imitation firearms and a knife was planning to blow up a bank after watching a Netflix documentary. Alan Murphy was jailed for 15 years at Liverpool Crown Court and given an extended licence period of five years.
He had planned an attack on the HSBC bank in Blackpool after watching documentary Dirty Money: Cartel Bank, which reported alleged connections between the bank and the funding of terrorism and drug cartels. He was “unlawfully at large” at the time after absconding from prison, and was living in a camper van next to a soup kitchen.
Rory Allington-Mott
Nathan Knox, of Chesterfield Drive, Kirkby -Credit:Merseyside police
A racist thug smirked and shook his head as a judge scorned him for the “repulsive” views that saw him target a mosque with bricks during a riot. Rory Allington-Mott played a “leading role” during the violent disorder on both Sussex Road and St Luke’s Road on July 30 this year.
He hurled “at least 20 bricks” towards police officers, police vehicles and the local mosque and picked up a wheelie bin and a recycling bin and threw them. Having travelled around two hours to Southport[35], he also pushed over a wall at the mosque which “provided ammunition” to other rioters.
Allington-Mott was jailed for three years and three months. He then winked towards the press bench in court as he was led towards the cells.
Edgar Didzulas
John Mozley (left) and Ben Tyler were jailed at Chester Crown Court after their plan to stage a fake burglary to cover up the theft of thousands of pounds was unravelled -Credit:Cheshire Constabulary
A judge highlighted a convicted sex offender's "problem" after hearing of his words to the police following his arrest. Edgar Didzulas hurled a missile towards officers and kicked a resident's garden wall down as violent scenes unfolded in Southport[36] following the fatal stabbings of six-year-old Bebe King, seven-year-old Elsie Dot Stancombe and nine-year-old Alice DaSilva Aguiar[37] last month.
Didzulas admitted violent disorder. Assisted by a Latvian interpreter in the dock, he showed no reaction as he was jailed for 28 months.
Sentencing, Judge David Swinnerton said: "Clearly, alcohol plays a part in your offending history. You have expressed your remorse. You have said that, if you had been sober at the time, you would have just walked away.
"That is probably right. But you failed to learn your lesson because you have committed offences, including violence, because of your alcohol abuse. While it may be right that you would not have done it sober, your problem is that you are frequently not."
Ellie Brown
Tommy Callaghan, 32, of Platt Bridge, Wigan, was jailed for violent disorder
A carer went for a night out with her sister but ended up leaving a mum blind in one eye after attacking her with her high heels. Ellie Brown repeatedly struck her victim in the face with the stiletto shoes after an argument erupted in the early hours over a man urinating in the street.
In the cold and sober light of day, the mother to a 10-year-old child and charity volunteer told the police that she "felt sick" over her drunken actions. She admitted inflicting grievous bodily harm with intent.
Brown tearfully nodded as she was jailed for five years and four months before replying "thank you". Supporters in the public gallery told her "love you" as she was led down to the cells.
Barry Sarjant
Christopher Daly -Credit:Merseyside Police
A grandad replied "why not?" when his daughter asked him why he had set fire to his own house. Barry Sarjant returned home from the pub and asked his wife for "cuddles", but started a blaze inside the matrimonial home when she declined.
He then armed him with a baseball bat in a bid to prevent her from extinguishing the flames. But she disarmed him and struck him over the head with the weapon in order to escape.
Sarjant - who wore a white shirt, black tie and glasses in the dock - admitted arson being reckless as to whether life was endangered and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. His supporters sat in tears in the public gallery as he was jailed for three years and handed a 10-year restraining order.
Jamie McClune
Abdulrahman Al-Nomire -Credit:Merseyside Police
A woman has been left scarred for life after she was slashed in the face with a knife at a petrol station. Jamie McClune repeatedly lashed out at his victim with the weapon in an apparent revenge attack after an associate of his had been jailed.
McClune admitted wounding with intent and possession of a bladed article in a public place. Appearing in the dock wearing a black Under Armour tracksuit, he nodded as he was imprisoned for six years - of which he must serve at least two thirds behind bars before becoming eligible for release - and handed an additional four years on licence, as well as a 10-year restraining order.
Harley Jones-Joyce, Niall Richie, Conrad Strachan, Harry Hosker and Alex Higson
Alan Murphy, 62, an escaped prisoner who was found with a nail bomb, two imitation firearms and a knife was planning to blow up a bank after watching a Netflix documentary, a court has heard. -Credit:PA
A gang were jailed after carrying out several burglaries targeting homes to steal "high powered vehicles and valuable jewellery". Harley Jones-Joyce, 18, Niall Richie, 19, Conrad Strachan 21, Harry Hosker, 29 and Alex Higson, 28, took part in nine burglaries which occurred in the Warrington[38] area between August and November 2023.
CCTV allowed the suspects to be identified and detectives would later find that the men had been in communication with each other before and after the break-ins. Some stolen items belonging to the victims were recovered during searches of their addresses.
Rory Allington-Mott, 34 and of High Street in Newport, was jailed for three years and three months for his role in the Southport riots -Credit:Merseyside Police
The burglars also left mole grips at one of the addresses, which was tested for DNA and came back matching that of Higson. Detectives meanwhile found that the gang had travelled to one of the victims' holiday homes in the Lake District to steal their car after taking jewellery and a calendar from the Warrington address.
Edgar Didzulas -Credit:Merseyside Police
Jones-Joyce was sentenced to four years and two months, Richie was handed one year and nine months, Strachan received two years in prison, Hosker was locked up for five years and Higson imprisoned for six years and five months. Strachan was also sentenced to an additional one year and three months for a Greater Manchester Police matter along with Richie, who was given a further one year and three months.
Ryan Canavan
Ellie Brown -Credit:Merseyside Police
A mechanic ranted "nothing happened though" as he was jailed for sexually assaulting a woman as she slept. Ryan Canavan crept into the bedroom where his victim, who was in her 60s, was sleeping before groping her after downing a dozen beers and smoking cannabis.
The campervan business owner was convicted of one count of sexual assault by a jury. He was locked up for 18 months this morning, to which he reacted by shaking his head and puffing out his cheeks as he said: "Why? This is a nightmare. Why?"
A woman in the public gallery told him "come on mate", but he continued: "Why though? I've got a business. Nothing happened though. There's nothing."
References
- ^ Liverpool Crown Court (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ killed his ex-girlfriend (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ left his own month-old son (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ Liverpool city centre (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ went on the run (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ made a stupid mistake (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ unmasked as a "sexual predator" (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ Southport (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ fatal stabbings of six-year-old Bebe King, seven-year-old Elsie Dot Stancombe and nine-year-old Alice DaSilva Aguiar (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ Kensington (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ Walton (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ Wirral (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ Southport (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ Kirkdale (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ Liverpool Crown Court (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ Tesco (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ Facebook (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ Southport (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ Liverpool city centre (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ Warrington (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ Bootle (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ Broadgreen (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ Bootle (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ Litherland (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ jailed for two years after admitting violent disorder (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ Engleby nodded and gave a thumbs up after being locked up for 28 months. (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ Moran, of Leybourne Avenue in Birkdale (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ Toxteth (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ Anfield (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ Warrington (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ Kirkby (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ Warrington (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ Southport (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ Norris Green (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ Southport (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ Southport (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ fatal stabbings of six-year-old Bebe King, seven-year-old Elsie Dot Stancombe and nine-year-old Alice DaSilva Aguiar (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ Warrington (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)