Thomas Worsfold and Sion Ap-Mihangel Secure Suspended Sentences in Assisting An Offender in Murder Case

Suspended sentences are very rare for assisting an offender where the underlying offence is murder. That is particularly so after a trial.

Sentencing took place following the conviction of one youth for murder, two youths for manslaughter, and two further defendants convicted of assisting an offender.

The assisting offender defendants were separately represented by Sion Ap-Mihangel and Thomas Worsfold, both were instructed by John Black Solicitors.

The trial took place between 11 November and 23 December. The assistance provided included the removal of three youths from the immediate vicinity of the murder, enabling them to thereafter dispose of evidence and evade detection in the key early stages of the investigation.

The authorities identify that for offences against public justice where the underlying offence is serious, defendants can expect immediate custodial sentences, often in excess of that which can be suspended.

The sentencing exercise required close consideration of the principles underlying that general approach and an analysis of their application to the defendant’s  cases. There was significant mitigation to be advanced at a sensitive sentencing hearing before Mr Justice Bright, which heard moving impact statements from the deceased’s family. Detailed and direct written submissions laid the groundwork for an exceptional course to be taken by the Judge.

For BBC coverage please click here.

For further information, or to instruct Sion Ap-Mihangel or Thomas Worsfold, please contact Senior Criminal Clerk, Andy McGuinness.