CPS News Brief

Two teenagers sentenced for killing of Paula Castle

Jenny Hopkins, CPS London Deputy Chief Crown Prosecutor, said:

“Paula Castle, an 85 year old woman, was on her way home from the shops in Greenford where she lived when she was attacked and robbed of her handbag. Mrs Castle had a heart condition and was partially sighted. Her robbers targeted her as she was vulnerable and, tragically, she later died from the injuries she sustained during the attack.

“The court today ruled that the two defendants responsible for her death Jiervon Bartlett and Nayed Hoque should be named, despite their ages, because of the nature of their offences.

“Far from showing remorse for their actions, Bartlett and Hoque went on a shopping spree, using Mrs Castle’s bank card to top-up a mobile phone and order takeaway food. They then committed a further robbery the next day, targeting another vulnerable victim. “The CPS worked very closely with our police partners to put a strong case before the court and as a result these individuals are today starting prison sentences for their callous crimes.

“This is a difficult time for Mrs Castle’s family and for the second victim and I hope this successful prosecution provides some small measure of comfort.”

 

Background

Jiervon Bartlett, 15, and Nayed Hoque, 15, were sentenced to six years for the manslaughter of Paula Castle. They were sentenced to four years for the robbery of Mrs Castle and sentenced to three years for the robbery of the second victim.

These sentences will run concurrently.

Bartlett pleaded guilty to manslaughter and two counts of robbery on 8 March, Hoque pleaded guilty to the same counts on April 10 at the Central Criminal Court.

Melanie Smith jailed for starting fire that killed five

Karen Dixon, District Crown Prosecutor for CPS Wales, said:

“Melanie Smith has today been sentenced for starting a devastating fire that had an immensely distressing outcome. She did so knowing that a family with children lived in the flat upstairs and with no regard for the consequences.

“At no stage has she has chosen to take any responsibility for the five lives tragically lost as a result of her actions. Today’s sentencing has at least ensured that she has had to face up to that responsibility in a criminal court.

“Melanie Smith’s conviction and sentence is a direct result of swift and decisive investigative work from North Wales Police and specialist fire investigators and I would like to thank them for their professionalism. I would also like to thank the very many people who have supported the prosecution of this case, either through providing statements or information to the police, or by giving evidence directly in court.

“Whilst today marks the end of the criminal justice process we are acutely aware that, for the family and friends of those lost, their sense of suffering and loss remains. They continue to have to deal with the consequences of Melanie Smith’s actions and our thoughts are with them.”