Monday, 17 March 2025

Understanding the Complexities of the Probation System

Introduction

The probation system plays a crucial role in the criminal justice landscape, serving as a bridge between incarceration and reintegration into society. However, it has faced significant scrutiny and criticism, particularly regarding its effectiveness and integrity. This article explores the various facets of the probation service, including allegations of dishonesty, the challenges it faces, and recent policy changes affecting offender release.

Allegations Against the Probation Service

Claims of Dishonesty

There have been numerous allegations suggesting that some members of the probation service may not always act in good faith. Critics argue that:

Fabrication of Reports: Some probation officers are accused of fabricating reports that misrepresent the behavior and rehabilitation progress of offenders.
Two-Faced Behavior: There are claims that certain officers may present a supportive front while secretly undermining the rehabilitation efforts of those under their supervision.
Perjury: In extreme cases, allegations of perjury have surfaced, where officers are said to have provided false testimony in court regarding an offender's compliance with probation terms.

These claims raise serious concerns about the reliability of the probation system and its ability to fulfill its rehabilitative role.

Challenges Facing the Probation Service

Staffing and Resource Issues

The probation service is currently grappling with significant challenges that hinder its effectiveness:

Staff Shortages: Reports indicate that every probation service in the UK is failing to meet minimum standards due to record staff shortages. This situation has led to increased caseloads for existing staff, making it difficult to provide adequate supervision and support to offenders.
High Caseloads: With the growing number of individuals on probation, officers are often overwhelmed, which can lead to oversight and a lack of personalized attention for each case.

Policy Changes Impacting Offender Release

Recent policy changes have also influenced how offenders are managed within the probation system:

Automatic Release on License: Offenders are automatically released on license after serving two-thirds of their sentence. This policy has raised concerns about the adequacy of supervision for those who may pose a risk to society.
Early Re-release of Recalled Prisoners: There have been alarming reports regarding the early re-release of prisoners who have reoffended or violated probation restrictions. This practice has sparked debates about public safety and the effectiveness of the probation system in managing high-risk individuals.

Conclusion

The probation service is at a critical juncture, facing allegations of dishonesty and significant operational challenges. As it navigates these issues, the integrity of the system and the safety of the public remain paramount. Ongoing discussions about reform and accountability will be essential in ensuring that the probation service can effectively rehabilitate offenders while maintaining public trust.

In light of these complexities, it is crucial for stakeholders, including policymakers, practitioners, and the community, to engage in constructive dialogue aimed at improving the probation system for all involved.

Check out the facts of prision life

The prison system, as I have observed over the past thirty-five years, has undergone a profound transformation, shifting from a framework ostensibly designed for rehabilitation to one that increasingly resembles a profit-driven enterprise. My experience as a discretionary lifer, with a tariff of eight years, has afforded me a unique perspective on the systemic issues that plague our correctional facilities. Today, I find myself reflecting on the myriad factors contributing to the crisis within the prison system, which is on the verge of breaking down.

To begin with, the sheer number of lifers—over 15,000—is staggering. Many of these individuals, both discretionary and mandatory lifers, have served well beyond their original tariffs, often by fifteen years or more. This situation raises critical questions about the efficacy of the justice system and its commitment to rehabilitation. The psychological programs that are supposed to aid in the reintegration of prisoners often fail to deliver meaningful results. Instead, they treat inmates as experimental subjects, cycling through various programs that are frequently abandoned after a few years, much like the Sex Offender Treatment Programme (SOTP). This lack of continuity and effectiveness in programming not only frustrates inmates but also undermines any genuine efforts at rehabilitation.

Moreover, the issue of inexperienced staff cannot be overlooked. Many individuals tasked with overseeing the rehabilitation process lack the necessary training and understanding of the complexities involved in managing a diverse inmate population. This inadequacy is compounded by the actions of probation officers, who often seem disconnected from the realities faced by prisoners. Their tendency to fabricate information can severely hinder an inmate's progress, leaving many feeling lost within a system that appears indifferent to their plight.

The overarching narrative of the prison system has shifted towards a model that prioritizes profit over rehabilitation. The introduction of psychological assessments and programs, initially intended to support inmates, has instead contributed to a culture where the focus is on filling beds rather than fostering genuine change. The financial implications are evident; every aspect of prison life—from the officers to the maintenance teams, canteen services, and educational programs—requires funding. This creates a system where the primary concern is not the well-being of inmates but rather the financial bottom line.

In light of these challenges, it is worth considering alternative models, such as those implemented in Texas, where inmates can earn days off their parole by engaging in productive work. Such an approach not only incentivizes positive behavior but also acknowledges the potential for rehabilitation through meaningful engagement.

Additionally, the plight of Indeterminate Sentenced Prisoners (IPPs) deserves attention. These individuals often find themselves forgotten within the system, raising the question of justice for both the offenders and the victims. While it is crucial to hold individuals accountable for their actions, it is equally important to recognize the broader implications of their sentences on society as a whole.

Furthermore, the discourse surrounding the incarceration of women often overlooks the fundamental principle of accountability. Regardless of gender, marital status, or sexual orientation, the expectation should remain consistent: if one commits a crime, one must serve the time. The notion that certain groups should be exempt from imprisonment undermines the very foundation of justice.

In conclusion, the prison system stands at a critical juncture, grappling with issues that threaten its integrity and effectiveness. The need for reform is urgent, as the current model increasingly resembles a human warehouse rather than a place of rehabilitation. It is imperative that we advocate for a system that prioritizes genuine rehabilitation over profit, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their circumstances, are treated with dignity and given the opportunity to reintegrate into society successfully. The path forward requires a collective effort to address these systemic flaws and to reimagine a justice system that truly serves its purpose.

Finally back

I Apologise to everyone who have been waiting for me to post again. unfortunately there have been unforeseen circumstances that came up. but i am back with a bang now. i have more facts to tell, and more people to put in the stage. i plan to do this twice a week. so stay tuned. we have also been busy on Youtube www.youtube.com/@DJFRANKIE_therealcon i would appreciate support on that platform

Wednesday, 21 February 2024

No Heating for 2 weeks no hot water for 2 days at HMP LITTLEHEY

This is a copy of a letter sent to Prison Inspector

I am writing to bring to your attention the concerning conditions that have been reported at HMP Littlehey. It has come to my attention that there have been ongoing issues regarding the lack of access to basic necessities such as hot water and heating for the inmates. This is unacceptable and raises serious concerns about the well-being and dignity of the individuals in the facility.

I urge you to conduct a thorough investigation into these conditions and take immediate action to ensure that the rights and needs of the inmates at HMP Littlehey are being met in accordance with the standards set by the prison service. It is imperative that all individuals, regardless of their circumstances, are treated with respect and provided with the necessary amenities for a safe and humane living environment.

Additionally, I intend to raise awareness about this issue through my blog in order to shed light on the situation and advocate for change. I believe that by bringing attention to these injustices, we can work towards creating a more just and compassionate

Sincerely,

XXXXXXXXX

Friday, 17 November 2023

prison nurse jailed

The Independent

www.independent.co.uk

Prison nurse and inmate lover among 16 jailed for 'flooding' jail ...

27 Oct 2023 — Hatfield, of HMP New Hall, was jailed for 10 years and two months after pleading guilty to conspiracy to supply class A and class B drugs, ...

ITVX

www.itv.com

Nursing assistant and inmate lover jailed over £1m prison drug ...

27 Oct 2023 — Amy Hatfield, a 38-year-old nursing assistant, and 16 co-conspirators smuggled more than £1million of drugs, knives and mobile phones into HMP ...

The Telegraph

https://www.telegraph.co.uk › news

Prison nurse Amy Hatfield flooded HMP Lindholme with drugs in £1m ...

27 Oct 2023 — Amy Hatfield sentenced to 10 years inside after being recruited by convict lover to bring contraband into HMP Lindholme, near Doncaster.

sex offender naked in woods except for a balaclava

A convicted sex offender was wandering around some woods in Derbyshire stark naked apart for a balaclava. Derby Crown Court heard how unfortunately for Carl Boers he was spotted in that state by an off-duty police officer.

When the 27-year-old was arrested he told police he “gets aroused at the thought of being caught”. And he has previous similar offences from when he lived in Oxfordshire for carrying out multiple lewd acts including sitting in a church without any clothes on and getting sexually aroused.

Handing him a three-year community order, Recorder Graham Huston said: “This is behaviour that has got to stop. The potential for causing real distress is evident and you can’t continue acting in this

Raglan Ashton, prosecuting, said the incident took place in Eckington Woods, Eckington, at around 6.30pm on April 12, this year. He said: “The woods are close to an urban area and he was naked apart from having a balaclava over his head.

“He was running out from some trees with his hand over his genital area, then moved his hands apart for a short time and then covered his genital area with them again. The person who saw this was an off-duty police officer who was going for a walk in the woods.

“He says that there are often plenty of children in those woods. The defendant was arrested a short distance

“'I have taken a risk too far. I have been in those woods naked several times before. I was wearing a balaclava because I did not want to be recognised

Thursday, 16 November 2023

paedophile asked 13 year old to take pants off

Pensioner asked 13-year-old Derby 'girl' to take off pants

But 'Holly' was really an

A Derbyshire pensioner befriended who he believed was a 13-year-old girl online and asked her to remove her underwear for him. Derby Crown Court heard how Brian Murphy also asked the teen if she had touched a male sexually before and told her he could meet her in Derby.

When she later told him she had been in trouble at school for wearing a skirt which was deemed too short, he asked her how short it was. But unbeknown to the 65-year-old, “Holly” was really an undercover police

Handing him a two-year community order, Judge Shaun Smith KC said: “You were involved with what you thought was a 13-year-old child and that is a criminal offence. Everyone who has common sense knows

“You are a man who, until now, has got to the age of 65 without getting into any trouble and now you have been caught for this. I have read your pre-sentence report and the probation service have deemed you as someone who presents a low risk of reoffending and they think with their help you can put all of this behind you and not commit any further ĺ

Abigail Joyce, prosecuting, said an undercover police officer posing as Holly began communicating with Murphy online in July 2021. She said the officer made it clear to the defendant that she was only 13 and that she lived in Derby.

The prosecutor said: “He asked her what she liked and what she looked like and [said] that he lived locally. He said he could be in town the following day and said he was concerned about being found out (as she was only 13).

“The defendant asked Holly what she was OK doing and asked if she would take her knickers off. He gave Holly his phone number and their conversation moved to WhatsApp where she said she had been in trouble at school as her skirt was too short and he asked her how short it was. He asked her if she had touched a boy sexually before and if she would get into a car with him.”

Miss Joyce said after being arrested, Murphy admitted he had been speaking online to a different 12-year-old child but could not recall any conversations he had with Holly.

She said: “He later admitted he did get sexual gratification from it but he denied having any sexual interest in children stating he ‘just enjoyed being wanted’.”

Friday, 3 November 2023

Paedophile police officer

A predatory paedophile police officer who incited more than 200 young girls to send him degrading pictures and videos of themselves over Snapchat has been branded “cruel and sadistic” as he received 13 life sentences.

Lewis Edwards posed as a teenage boy to groom 210 girls aged between 10 and 16 and forced them to send him indecent images of themselves that he secretly recorded.

He then blackmailed many of his victims with threats to tell their family and friends unless they sent increasingly graphic content and even sent them videos of him performing sex acts upon himself.

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Tuesday, 31 October 2023

paedophile messaged 2 girls on Xbox

Kris Hatton previously appeared before the courts in 2021 after amassing hundreds of sick child sex abuse images

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Kris Hatton, 31, of Princes Avenue, Toxteth

Kris Hatton, 31, previously appeared before Liverpool Crown Court in December 2021

A paedophile who messaged two young girls on his PlayStation claimed he does not have a sexual interest in children.

Kris Hatton previously appeared before Liverpool Crown Court in December 2021 after amassing hundreds of sick child sex abuse images. Hatton avoided prison due to his complex learning difficulties, but a sexual harm prevention order was enforced to monitor his usage of electronic devices.

However, part of the order meant the 31-year-old was regularly visited by specialist officers from Merseyside Police's sexual offences unit. When officers attended his address on March 15 this year, they looked at Hatton's iPhone and examinations revealed that part of its history had been wiped.

Prosecutor Paul Blasbery told Liverpool Crown Court today, Monday, October 30, that Hatton was noted to be acting suspiciously, and at one point attempted to snatch back his phone. The iPhone was taken away for further examination and officers were able to recover nearly 200 indecent images of children.

These included 137 category C images, 28 category B files and 33 category A images. The category A images, the most serious category, showed girls aged between eight and 10 years old. The category B and C images showed girls as young as six. The officers also recovered 11 prohibited computer generated images of females aged between six and 10.

The examinations also revealed the phone had Mega NZ software installed on it, which was not allowed and was a breach of the sexual harm prevention order. Mr Blasbery said Hatton was interviewed and told officers he "did not know why he had the pictures, he just did".

Hatton, of Princes Avenue, Toxteth, also claimed the pictures "were not for sexual gratification". He was released under investigation, but around four months later on July 13, police received a report he had used his PlayStation to speak to two girls aged five and eight. Mr Blasbery told the court the defendant asked the girls "if they wanted to have a sleepover".

Officers raided his address shortly after 10pm that day and arrested him. They found five registered devices at his address - three phones and two PlayStations - but also an unregistered Amazon Alexa which was a further breach of his sexual harm prevention order. When interviewed Hatton, who has two previous convictions for six offences, answered no comment to all questions.

In mitigation, Charles Lander, defending, told the court his client, who lives in supported accommodation, has learning difficulties and was "obsessive about online gaming which is how he spends his time". A judge in a previous sentence put on record Hatton has an IQ of 60.

Mr Lander said his client had "a lack of friend and family support" and was isolated. Despite the haul of images, Mr Lander said Hatton maintains "he does not have a sexual interest in children".

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He added his client had been on remand at HMP Altcourse since his guilty pleas to the offences at the lower court. Hatton pleaded guilty to making and possessing indecent images of children, possessing prohibited images and two breaches of the sexual harm prevention order. There was not a charge in relation to communicating with a sexual purpose to the two children on PlayStation.

Given Hatton's learning difficulties, Mr Lander said rehabilitation programmes outside of an immediate custodial sentence could be beneficial to his client. He added the court potentially "could take a risk on him".

His Honour Judge Denis Watson KC told Hatton that his reoffending came around half way through the previous community order enforced by the court in December 2021. He said Hatton's "harmful behaviour" was the opposite of what the order was intended for.

He jailed Hatton, who wore a blue tracksuit and had medium length black hair, to 30 months imprisonment. He also made a forfeiture order for Hatton's electronic devices and enforced a new sexual harm prevention order which will run indefinitely

Wednesday, 25 October 2023

Paedophile tells police

David Eyre blamed his offences on a pornography addiction - but he claimed he could not afford the sessions to help himself

David Eyre, 55, was jailed at Liverpool Crown Court

"I know what this is about." These were the words of a 'monster' paedophile when police raided his house earlier this year.

David Eyre, 55, who claimed his offending was due to a pornography addiction, was targeted by Merseyside Police officers from the specialist Online Child Abuse Investigation Team on June 20 this year following a lengthy investigation into his online activity, the Liverpool ECHO reports. Liverpool Crown Court heard yesterday (October 23) how Eyre told officers "I know what this is about" when they visited his Southport home and pointed at his computer, adding, "the devices are down there".

Prosecuting barrister Robert Dudley said police found "a computer tower" and three hard drives. The defendant added there was also another computer at his mum's address. An iPhone was also seized and examinations found its search history included "1970s school girl pornography" and "extreme beastiality".

During his first interview he answered no comment. However, after examining his electronic devices police officers found a disturbing haul of indecent images that included a number of photographs and videos of the same child. On August 16, Eyre's home was raided again and a second iPhone was found along with a suicide note.

Mr Dudley told the court how when questioned again the defendant admitted to having an addiction to pornography. He said he was "desensitised" to extreme pornography and added "when you're bored it pulls you back in". The court heard he had sought help for his addiction in the past but could not afford the sessions.

He said his addiction dated back 35 years but this was the first time he had acted on it and "was a threat". The court heard Eyre's devices contained hundreds of images and videos.

During the interview, Eyre, who had last wiped his computer three to four months before his arrest, said: "I'm glad of the intervention." The offending started when the victim was just 15 months old and continued until she was four.

Three moving victim impact statements were read to the court by Mr Dudley. The victim's dad said: "When I found out she had been sexually assaulted my heart sank." He said: "How can a monster hurt a beautiful, innocent girl". The court heard how the victim's family "don't know what damage this will cause in the future".

The victim's mum added she was "numb" when she was told what happened and "everything felt mumbled". She said she felt guilt because her daughter would have "wondered why we weren't there in her time of need".

She added her daughter's "innocence was taken away" and she would now have a "lifetime of picking up the pieces". Lastly, the victim's nan added the family is "going through a grieving process" and their "world crumbled" after Eyre's criminality was revealed.

Officers investigating Eyre not only charged him with assaulting a girl under 13 by penetration and touching, but also three counts of taking indecent images and three counts of possessing indecent images, among a number of other charges.

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He possessed hundreds of images, including nearly 650 category A - images of the most serious nature - that he had made himself. He also possessed images of prepubescent girls as young as seven.

Louise McCloskey, defending, said: "What can one say about these types of offences" and added it was all said in the victim impact statements heard in court. She said the offences would have been like a "hand grenade going off" for the victim's family.

In mitigation, she added that the defendant had written an extensive letter to the court which "showed proper acknowledgement of the harm he has caused". Ms McCloskey added the defendant had his own difficulties as a child and these issues had manifested into a porn addiction.

She said the defendant should be entitled to full credit - due to his earlier guilty plea to 16 different offences at magistrates' court - and asked that any sentence issued be "significant, but determinate".

His Honour Judge Robert Trevor-Jones told the defendant he was treating the two counts of penetration as the lead offences on the indictment. The judge acknowledged Eyre's letter had expressed remorse and referred to desensitisation surrounding the serious pornography.

Judge Trevor-Jones told Eyre his addiction was "entrenched behaviour" and saw him "completely preoccupied". But he also acknowledged how Eyre was a "psychological, physical and emotional risk to children" and only an immediate and lengthy custodial sentence would suffice.

The judge sentenced Eyre, who wore a short-sleeved flowery shirt during court, to 14 years with an extended licence period of five years. He will also have to sign the sex offenders' register for life. The judge also enforced a sexual harm prevention order, a deprivation order on his electronic devices and a restraining order to prevent him contacting the victim or her family.

Detective Inspector Victoria Tinsley, from Merseyside Police's Online Child Abuse Investigation Team, said: "Merseyside Police is completely committed to bringing child sex offenders before the courts, no matter how long ago the abuse took place. We have specialist officers within our Online Child Abuse Investigations team who are dedicated to investigating these crimes, bringing those responsible before the courts and ultimately protecting young people from unimaginable suffering.

"Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to stress that if you have experienced any form of sexual abuse, or know of a child being abused, please come forward and report this to police. We take all such reports extremely seriously and if you can find the courage to come forward and speak to us we have specially trained officers who will treat you

Saturday, 21 October 2023

Paedophile jailed for 21 years

Paedophile Chris Bell was jailed at Hull Crown Court for 21 years

Bell was convicted after denying a series of sexual offences (Image: HullLive )

A former BBC worker who a judge said has a “persisting sexual interest in children” has been jailed for 21 years after leaving his victim “still haunted” by their ordeal at his hands.

A court heard paedophile Chris Bell, who worked at the BBC for eight years in the 1980s, targeted a boy to satisfy his perverted urges.

The victim went on to become seriously depressed and the abuse had "massively" affected his life, Hull Crown Court heard.

Bell, 61, of Beech Avenue, Thorngumbald, near Hull, denied a series of sexual offences, including rape, attempted rape, sexual assault, making indecent images of a child and distributing them.

HullLive reports he was convicted of on all counts by a jury of 12 after a trial and has been put behind bars for more than two decades.

A judge told Bell he had a 'persisting sexual interest in children' (Image: HullLive )

Bell’s victim said in a statement read in court that the abuse had “affected him massively”.

He said he had felt "guilt, hurt and regret" at what happened to him and he became "severely depressed" at what he "endured" at the hands of Bell.

The abuse "still haunts me", he said, adding that Bell had taken his childhood innocence.

The statement added: "This whole thing has been very hard on me and I am still struggling, the road to recovery will be very long and very hard."

Simon Reevell, prosecuting, told the earlier trial that Bell previously worked at a number of local radio stations, including Stray FM, broadcasting to Yorkshire, and what was then Home FM, based in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire. He later “failed” running a pub and because a bus driver.

Bell previously lived in Filey, East Yorkshire, but had worked in Hull. He offered cigarettes to a young boy, despite the lad's age.

The court heard Bell undressed him and kissed him before trying to engage in sexual behaviour. Bell told the boy that it was a game, but the boy said he "felt sick".

Mr Reevell said: "He had no real understanding of what was being done to him and no understanding of what it all meant. For some years, he did not feel able to report it."

Bell had claimed that the allegations were false and denied that anything inappropriate had happened.

Bell at court before he was jailed for 21 years (Image: HullLive )

"He denied any sexual interest in children," said Mr Reevell. An image of two boys was found on his phone. It had been sent to a Snapchat account set up in a false name.

He admitted setting up the account and said that he might have received the image from a friend. He later denied responsibility for it.

Charlotte Baines, mitigating, said that Bell had no previous convictions.

Ms Baines said: "Although the offences are clearly very serious, there is not present here a significant risk to members of the public of serious harm.”

Judge Kate Rayfield said the boy had suffered "feelings of hurt and regret" but he had nothing to feel guilty about.

She said "Speaking out was a courageous act on his part” and told Bell: "You have a persisting sexual interest in children."

Bell will be on additional licence of one year after his eventual release from prison. He will have to register as a sex offender for life. A sexual harm prevention order will be made at a later hearing shortly.

Friday, 20 October 2023

Mother murdered her baby

Eloddie Goncalves-Taborda was convicted of killing her young baby in a 'traumatic' incident in Harlow three years ago

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Police mugshot of Eloddie Goncalves

Eloddie Goncalves who was found guilty of murdering 12-week-old baby Malik Goncalves

A mother has been jailed for life for the murder of her 11-week-old son, Malik, in Harlow three years ago. Eloddie Goncalves-Taborda, 32, was sentenced to life in prison with a minimum term of 17 years to be served before she will be considered for release.

Goncalves-Taborda was jailed for the murder of her son Malik when she appeared at Chelmsford Crown Court on Friday (October 20). At the same hearing her partner, Muritala Olaiya-Imam, was jailed for 10 years for allowing the baby’s death.

Both were convicted of the charges at the conclusion of a seven-week trial at the same court back in July. The jury also found Goncalves, formerly of Harlow, guilty of child cruelty and, alongside her partner, both were found guilty of attempting to pervert the course of justice.

Mrs Justice Farbey, sentencing the pair at Chelmsford Crown Court, said Malik was a "blameless and defenceless" baby. The judge added that Eloddie "put her own selfish interests above those of a baby".

Emergency services were called to an address in Harlow at around 10am on August 19, 2020 after Malik was found unresponsive by his mother. Sadly, despite the best efforts of paramedics, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

A post-mortem examination found he died of a head injury, he was also found to have suffered 21 rib fractures, had broken wrists and two skull fractures in different places. The injuries were indicative of shaking and a blunt impact trauma to his head.

Emergency services outside the block of flats in Harlow

Expert evidence at the trial confirmed that his injuries were more likely non-accidental, the majority of which were caused between two and 12 hours prior to his death. The baby’s left wrist was fractured 3-6 days prior to death.

Both Goncalves-Taborda and Olaiya-Imam denied responsibility for Malik’s death and attempted to pervert the course of justice. Goncalves-Taborda was interviewed by detectives multiple times over an 18-month period.

Throughout the interviews she continued to deny responsibility for causing Malik’s death, going as far as to blame an unknown intruder for her son’s death. This was a claim for which detectives did not find any supporting evidence.

Olaiya-Imam told the investigating team during interviews that, although he wasn’t present at the time of Malik’s death, he was distraught and loved his son. He denied being involved in any child cruelty and that he was unaware of the earlier wrist

Detective Chief Inspector Stuart Truss, who led the investigation, said at the time of conviction: “The death of a young child is and will always be immensely tragic and our thoughts remain with Malik’s wider family at this difficult time. Malik died at the hands of those who should have cared for him most.

“This lengthy, sensitive investigation was difficult for all those involved. But I am proud that everyone acted with determined professionalism and focussed on what really mattered – securing justice for the death of their defenceless baby son.”

Goncalves-Taborda had the opportunity to give evidence during the trial but she chose not to. She was also convicted of assault on an emergency worker.

Unmute

Wednesday, 18 October 2023

Paedophile kidnapped victim abused victim for 27 hours jailed for 20 years

Andrew Miller hid under a jacket when leaving a previous court appearance (Andrew Milligan/PA)

PA Wire

A paedophile who abducted a young girl as she walked home and sexually abused her for 27 hours has been jailed for 20 years.

Andrew Miller, 53, who also uses the name Amy George, was dressed as a woman when he offered the primary school-aged child – whom he had never seen before – a lift in February, in the Scottish Borders.

Miller took the girl back to his house and subjected her to repeated attacks, which a judge described as “every parent’s worst nightmare”.

At the High Court in Edinburgh in May, Miller pleaded guilty to charges of abduction, sexual assault, watching pornography in the presence of the child under the age of 13 and possessing 242 indecent images of children.

Sentencing Miller, Judge Lord Arthurson said: “The narrative was frankly nauseating in terms of its depravity and criminal sexual deviancy.

“On your arrest you denied the abduction and preposterously said you had acted in a motherly way.

“Abduction of young children for the purposes of sexual torment is a mercifully rare crime in this jurisdiction.”

You told the assessor you went into business mode, ‘trying to think of a plan'

Judge Lord Arthurson to the defendant

Lord Arthurson told Miller his “primary focus” throughout was himself and, while he showed an understanding of the impact his crimes had on the wider public, it was “limited” in terms of the victim.

During interviews with a risk assessor, Miller “even attempted to place responsibility on (his victim)”, the judge said.

When he was interviewed by police after his arrest, Miller alluded to the victim being “sexually active”, the judge said.

The judge said Miller alluded to the victim being “sexually active” when he was interviewed by police following his arrest.

Lord Arthurson described Miller’s crimes as “brazen and chilling” and “uniquely appalling”.

The court was told Miller is transitioning into a woman.

Miller has been held in the male prison estate following a row over the jailing of transgender rapist Isla Bryson who was sent to a female prison in February.

Earlier, the judge described Miller’s offences as “abhorrent crimes” of the utmost “deviance and depravity” which were “the realisation of every parent’s worst nightmare”.

The child was locked in Miller’s home for 27 hours, during which time she was repeatedly touched, and also forced to watch pornography.

She dialled 999 while Miller, who was wearing women’s underwear, was asleep.

The girl found the landline phone and called police, saying she had been touched inappropriately, the court heard.

Miller, who had run a butcher’s shop, claimed he offered the girl a lift “because she was freezing”, and claimed forcing her to sleep in the bed with him “was a motherly thing”.

After his arrest, three laptops were seized from his property and a total of 242 indecent images of children were found.

Miller was sentenced to a 28-year extended sentence, with 20 years to be spent behind bars and a further eight spent on licence under supervision in the community.

He was also placed on the sex offenders register.

After being sentenced, he was led down from the dock with his head bowed.

Defending Miller, Victoria Dow told the court he had gone through “significant periods” of his life without harming anyone.

She said he managed to keep his “impulses” under control by holding down a job and managing a successful business, but he had problems with low self-esteem.

His issues were triggered by the closure of his businesses, leading to increasing alcohol consumption and pornography usage.

Ms Dow said: “He (Miller) recognises and feels the horror of his conduct.

“He feels a deep sense of shame, but not only for himself, but those in his life who will feel the impact.”

Detective Chief Inspector Bryan Burns said: “Our thoughts today are with the victim and her family who have shown incredible courage and strength throughout this ordeal.

“This was a significant investigation and I would like to thank all those involved for their professionalism and commitment during what was an extremely challenging inquiry.

“Andrew Miller has pled guilty to serious offending and will now face the consequences of his actions.

Wednesday, 11 October 2023

Man and woman found dead

Man and woman found dead as double murder investigation launched

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Jasper King

Wednesday 11 Oct 2023 5:10 pm

death nottingham

Police were called to Hallam Road, in Mapperley, Nottingham, after concerns were raised by family members (Picture: SWNS)

A murder investigation has been launched after a man and a woman’s body were found in a house.

Police were called to Hallam Road, in Mapperley, Nottingham, on Monday, to find Deborah Boulter, 53, David Boulter, 60, dead after concerns were raised by family members.

Nottinghamshire Police confirmed it is not looking for anyone else in connection with the inquiry.

Detective Inspector Clare Gibson said: ‘This is an incredibly tragic incident and our thoughts remain with the family and loved ones of those affected at this difficult time.

‘A murder inquiry has commenced but we are not looking for anyone else in connection with the deaths. We are continuing to investigate what has happened so that a file can be prepared for the coroner.

‘Specially trained officers continue to support the family and I’d appeal to the public and the media to respect their

preview image for ‘Help me, help me’: Neighbours describe hearing moment Ashley Dale was shot dead

'Help me, help me': Neighbours describe hearing moment Ashley Dale was shot dead.

Monday, 9 October 2023

Drug dealer caught after mum finds gun and calls police

Daniel Sneddon, 27, caged after police found evidence on his mobile phone

Daniel Sneddon, 27, of Galston Road, Kilmarnock, was jailed for 13 years and 6 months after abusing a boy from Warrington

A man who sexually abused a boy from Warrington has been jailed. Daniel Sneddon, 27, began abusing the boy when he was aged just 10, and filmed himself abusing the child.

The court heard how Sneddon would bribe his victim, by offering to buy gifts, before raping and sexually abusing the child. Police said the horrific abuse ended in February 2023 when the child's mother discovered a number of "concerning" texts from Sneddon to the victim.

Sneddon was arrested on Monday, March 6, but police let him go on conditional bail after he "vehemently" denied the offences, police said. Police say an in-depth investigation uncovered video evidence of the abuse stored on Sneddon's phone.

READ: Police name 13 men due in court over Chester FC disorder | Officers launched an investigation into trouble following the play-off semi-final game against Brackley Town

He was rearrested on Thursday 18 May and subsequently charged with engaging in sexual activity with a child, engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child, four counts of rape of a child under 13, two counts of sexual assault of a child under 13, and possession of indecent photographs of a child.

Sneddon, of Galston Road, Kilmarnock, admitted the sexually abusing the boy. He appeared at Chester Crown Court today (October 9), where he was sentenced to 13 years and 6 months in prison and a further four years on licence.

Following the sentencing, Detective Constable Neil Mooney, of Warrington CID, said: “This has been a complex and lengthy investigation which ultimately uncovered Sneddon's despicable behaviour. It was apparent throughout the investigation that Sneddon is a sexual predator who preyed on a vulnerable young boy and had no regard for the effects his actions would have on the victim or his family.

“When interviewed, Sneddon showed no remorse and failed to account for his actions. Those actions were premeditated and devious.

DC Mooney continued: “It is clear from reviewing the evidence in the case that Sneddon knew what he was doing was wrong, and that he went to great lengths to conceal his behaviour. I am pleased that this case has been brought to a swift conclusion for the sake of the victim and his family and I hope that Sneddon uses this time in prison to reflect on the devastating effects his actions have had.

“I would like to thank the victim for showing such bravery throughout this investigation, and his family for the support they have provided, both to their son and the investigation throughout. I hope this case and the sentence that Sneddon has received encourages other victims of sexual offences to come forward and report them to us."

DC Mooney added: "We treat all reports of sexual offences extremely seriously, and any allegations will be thoroughly investigated, with the wishes and needs of the victim as our main priority.”

Key Points

What are the long-term effects of child sexual abuse on the victims?

Should sexual offenders like Sneddon be given the opportunity for rehabilitation?

How would the investigation have been affected if the mother hadn't found the texts?

Devious Pedophile

Daniel Sneddon, 27, caged after police found evidence on his mobile phone

Daniel Sneddon, 27, of Galston Road, Kilmarnock, was jailed for 13 years and 6 months after abusing a boy from Warrington

A man who sexually abused a boy from Warrington has been jailed. Daniel Sneddon, 27, began abusing the boy when he was aged just 10, and filmed himself abusing the child.

READ: Police name 13 men due in court over Chester FC disorder | Officers launched an investigation into trouble following the play-off semi-final game against Brackley Town

“When interviewed, Sneddon showed no remorse and failed to account for his actions. Those actions were premeditated and devious.

DC Mooney added: "We treat all reports of sexual offences extremely seriously, and any allegations will be thoroughly investigated, with the wishes and needs of the victim as our main priority.”

Key Points

What are the long-term effects of child sexual abuse on the victims?

Should sexual offenders like Sneddon be given the opportunity for rehabilitation?

How would the investigation have been affected if the mother hadn't found the texts?

Duo accused of murdering much loved dad

Duo standing trial accused of murdering 'much-loved father and grandfather' in Wheatley Hill

Harvey Hughes, 20, and a 17-year-old youth are accused of murdering 46-year-old Ross Connelly

Ross Connelly who has been described as a "a much-loved father and grandfather" in a tribute from his family

Ross Connelly who has been described as a "a much-loved father and grandfather" in a tribute from his family (Image: Durham Constabulary)

A man and a youth are standing trial accused of murdering a much loved father by brutally beating him with a weapon.

Harvey Hughes, 20, and a 17-year-old youth - who cannot be named for legal reasons - are accused of murdering 46-year-old Ross Connelly in County Durham. The pair are currently standing trial at Newcastle Crown Court, each facing a charge of murder. They are also jointly accused of causing grievous bodily harm with intent, relating to another man, which they deny.

Hughes, of Peterlee, but currently of no fixed address, also faces a charge of making a threat to kill, which he denies. A third defendant, Millie Bradley, 19, of Beech Grove, Trimdon Grange, is also standing trial accused of assisting an offender. She denies the charge.

Read more: Dog destroyed after attacking man and causing serious injuries in Sunderland

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On the first day of the trial on Wednesday, prosecutor Nicholas Lumley KC, said the alleged grievous bodily harm offence happened on April 30 this year, when the pair were armed with a metal bar and "set about" a man in a street. He said: "It was completely unprovoked and thought they were somehow justified because of where he lived at the time. While there was a threat to kill him, that didn't happen."

The jury heard that in the early hours of the next morning on May 1, the pair then "targeted" Mr Connelly at his Wheatley Hill home. Mr Lumley said: "They went to the home of Ross Connelly and beat him with such force that his life couldn't be saved and he was killed. They are both charged with murder."

The jury heard that Hughes, and the youth were often seen together driving around in a Ford Transit van. A day before the alleged murder, the pair were in Shotton Colliery when they encountered a man walking down a street. Mr Lumley told the jury that when Hughes discovered the man was living at a nearby hostel, he told him: "Only nonces and paedophiles stay there."

Mr Lumley said he was "picking on him and picking a fight". A scuffle then broke out and the man came off worse before heading back to the hostel. The jury was told Hughes told the man he would "f****** kill him" and the man did not report the incident to police.

The jury was told that the following day, the youth defendant decided to "confront" Mr Connelly, and went to his home along with Hughes and others.

Mr Lumley said on the journey there, "they collected a weapon of the type used in the street earlier". It was later that the alleged murder took place.

Following the death of Mr Connelly, his family released a statement where they paid tribute to his "wicked sense of humour". In a statement released in May, they said: "We are devastated by the loss of Ross, who was a much-loved father and grandfather.

"He will be remembered as a man who loved his football, music, and had a wicked sense of humour. We request privacy at this time to allow us space to grieve."

The trial continues.

Friday, 6 October 2023

He drove down from his home in of Gwladys, Liverpool armed with a sex toy he intended on gifting the victim in exchange for a pair of her knickers, telling her to hide the toy from her

Lomas also brought alcohol, which he plied the girl with until she was "paralytic" then bent her over a log and sexually assaulted her.

After the sexual assault she was discovered by members of the public who called an ambulance. "She was shouting things like 'Why wont the pain stop?' and 'I want to die'," Mr Wayne said.

While she was telling passers by what had happened, Lomas tried to pull her away but fled once he realised the police were on their way.

Lomas was arrested and admitted his crimes to police at the station, after which they discovered the sexual communications on his mobile phone and his plans to meet her.

Lomas was charged and pleaded guilty to assault by penetration, sexual communication, and meeting a child following grooming on June 8 at Snaresbrook Crown Court.

Lomas lured his victim into secluded woods (Image: MyLondon)

Defending barrister Parveen Mansoor explained her client had a "difficult childhood" and underwent constant assessment by doctors due to his autism and developmental disorder.

But Ms Mansoor was briefly interrupted by Lomas as he objected to the charge of meeting a child following grooming, despite pleading guilty to it.

He claimed he was "told to plead guilty" by his previous counsel, against his belief he had not intended to commit a sexual offence.

Acting on her client's instructions, Ms Mansoor tried to make the point but it was rejected by Judge Gordon.

The judge said: "He travelled down from Liverpool having exchanged disgusting videos with her and you are telling me he did not intend to do anything.

"He has an appalling attitude in relation to this offence. He said there should be no law preventing sexual relations with anyone who has reached the age of puberty."

Lomas then shouted: "You're putting words in my mouth."

Judge Gordon asked him to "restrain yourself" and continued: "He claims to have no sexual interest in children, that's obviously not true. He has a self-confessed interest in Daddy Dom with little girls."

Ms Mansoor could only add that her client was sorry, and had promised to block any young girls if he found himself in a similar situation again.

Judge Gordon accepted the mitigation but added: "There's no evidence whatsoever of any motivation to change his behaviour."

Lomas admitted his crimes at the police station (Image: Getty )

As the judge gave his final sentencing remarks, Lomas locked horns again and blurted "she suggested it" as Judge Gordon recalled the moment he arranged to meet the 14-year-old.

Judge Gordon rebutted: "Anything she has done you should have prevented her from doing.

"You plied her with alcohol until she was paralytic. You bent her over a log and digitally penetrated her with two fingers. I have seen the victim impact statement which she gave, and you are rather lucky she seems to brush off your behaviour. At the end of the day she was quite clearly a very vulnerable child you took advantage of then abused."

After Lomas stormed out the court on September 21, Judge Gordon slapped him with an extended sentence of 10 years in his absence, citing his dangerousness to the public based on the expert opinions of the psychiatrist and probation service.

Lomas will serve a custodial period of six years and a further four on extended licence. He will be eligible for release by parole after four years.

HMP FIVE WELLS

HMP Five Wells officers 'left alone with 64 prisoners'

By Martin Heath and Annabel Amos
BBC News, Northamptonshire

2 October 2023

Prisoners at category C prison HMP Five Wells in Wellingborough — HMP Five Wells opened last year with space for 1,680 "residents"

A former prison officer at a so-called "super prison" has told the BBC she was often left alone on a landing with 64 prisoners.

Kate, which is not her real name, told the BBC prisoners at HMP Five Wells near Wellingborough in Northamptonshire were left to resolve incidents while the staff could only watch.

She left after six months.

The prison is run by G4S which said: "The safety of staff and prisoners is our number one priority."

HMP Five Wells opened in 2022 and was intended to support prisoners on the road to rehabilitation. There are no bars in the windows and inmates are known as "residents".

There are 24 different workshops at the 1,680-capacity jail to help inmates learn new skills with the aim of improving their job prospects on release.

However, Kate suggested there were issues with training, staff numbers and management.

Although she had a 12-week training course at the prison, she said that it did not really prepare her for the job.

"I basically got paid for 12 weeks of sitting on a wing that wasn't in use yet having a muck-about with my [trainee] mates," she said.

"As soon as I got on to the houseblock and then the landings, I didn't have a scooby what I was doing."

She said that there was very little support from the management who would only point out mistakes.

'Reluctance to challenge prisoners'

An Independent Monitoring Board [IMB] report published last month found there were too many "inexperienced operational staff" at the jail and a "reluctance by wing staff to challenge prisoners (e.g. when prisoners walk into the staff office, or when they are vaping in unauthorised areas)".

Kate said: "I'd say the prisoners are running it [the prison]. A lot stuff that happens there, the prisoners are the ones that deal with the situations and try to calm everybody down.

"[The staff] were there, watching it."

Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary Dominic Raab is given a tour of category C prison HMP Five Wells in Wellingborough — Image caption,
Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary Dominic Raab was given a tour of the category C prison last year

Kate said staff often felt unsafe: "If you have to go to get new rules signed or get the trolley for lunch or dinner, you're leaving one person on a landing, on their own with 64 prisoners.

"I used to be left on multiple landings on my own; I'm not a timid person, but it did used to freak me out and I always used to stand near the gate, just in case."

The IMB also said that drugs were available in most houseblocks and sightings of drones bringing illicit goods in had been common, although these were decreasing.

Ex Five Wells prison officer 'inmates run the place' - BBC Sounds

A spokesman for G4S, the private company which runs the prison, said: "The safety of staff and prisoners is our number one priority, and we do not tolerate violence.

"Managers take swift and robust action when serious incidents do happen. Such incidents are then referred to the police to support further prosecution.

"We have sufficient levels of staffing to run a stable, consistent and safe regime. We continue to drive recruitment to increase our staffing numbers which will enable us to broaden our current prison regime."

A prisoner repairs bikes in a workshop at category C prison HMP Five Wells in Wellingborough — The prison has 24 workshops allowing inmates to learn a range of skills, including bike repair