Greta Simpson

Both Douk Deng, a 21-year-old South Sudanese failed asylum seeker, was sentenced to two years in prison after entering school grounds in Rochdale while carrying a hammer, hatchet, seven-inch knife and petrol can. Police body-camera footage shows officers tackling him after construction workers raised the alarm. The court heard that Deng wanted to attract attention to his immigration situation and was not seeking to harm children or staff. A judge criticized the Home Office for failing to resolve his status, while Greater Manchester Police praised the officers who detained him.

A 15-year-old boy received an 18‑month youth referral order and a five‑year driving ban for causing the death of his 14‑year‑old friend Jacob Calland while riding an e‑scooter at high speed through a red light before colliding with a car in Wythenshawe. The court heard the scooter was in its fastest mode and that the driver had no training and a troubled upbringing. Jacob sustained catastrophic brain injuries and died eight days later. The judge emphasised rehabilitation over custody due to the boy’s background and remorse. Jacob’s mother delivered an emotional impact statement, while police urged parents to ensure children understand the risks of e‑scooters on public roads.