Unduly Lenient Sentence Decision in Emma Kehoe & Ellie Watson Case

The Court of Appeal found the sentence of 4 years 6 months’ custody unduly lenient in case successfully prosecuted by Emma Kehoe and Ellie Watson.

Emma Kehoe led Ellie Watson in a trial at Manchester Crown Court that saw a jury convict the Defendant of 12 counts of sexual offending committed against 11 young girls and women over several months. Much of the offending took place in the underpass beneath the Mancunian way, in broad daylight, but also in the Wythenshawe area.

A dedicated and thorough investigation conducted by Greater Manchester Police enabled Emma Kehoe to robustly present the case to the jury over the course of the 8-day trial. Meticulous preparation by all involved led the jury to unanimously convict the Defendant of all 12 counts.

A sentence of 4 years 6 months’ custody was imposed by the trial Judge but after thoughtful submissions drafted by Emma and Ellie, the case was referred to the Court of Appeal by the Solicitor General.

On 1 May 2025, the Defendant was found to be a dangerous offender and the Court of Appeal increased the sentence to 7 years’ custody with a further 3 years on license.

For more information, or to instruct Emma Kehoe or Ellie Watson, please contact Senior Criminal Clerk, Andy McGuinness.