Patrick Edrich

Liverpool solicitor Helen Dugdale, 57, pleaded guilty at Carlisle Magistrates' Court to two charges of driving over the alcohol limit in Liverpool in July and August 2026. She recorded breath readings of 57 and 95 micrograms per 100 millilitres, compared with the legal limit of 35, and had a passenger during the second incident. Members of the public reported her driving to police. Dugdale has two previous drink-driving convictions and was previously fined £15,000 by the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal, with more than £3,500 in costs. Sentencing has been adjourned to October 8, while an interim driving disqualification remains in force.

A Liverpool Crown Court judge criticized police for seizing four mobile phones from convicted drug dealer Roy Hickman without arranging for them to be examined. Hickman admitted breaching a serious crime prevention order intended to prevent him from returning to serious and organized crime, but investigators said analysis of the phones could take at least 12 weeks. The judge adjourned sentencing until November 11 and ordered police to prioritize the examination, while Hickman’s solicitor argued that a delay could affect his parole prospects. Hickman, previously jailed for more than 14 years for leading a Cumbria drug gang, denied that the phones would contain evidence of further criminality.

James Close, a 44-year-old associate of Salford gangster Jamie Rothwell, was found to have benefited from crime by more than £1.5 million but has only £546 in available assets, consisting of cash and designer clothing held by authorities. Following his 36-year prison sentence for firearms, drug-supply and criminal-property offences, he was given three months to pay the £546 after the items are sold. Rothwell received a 43-year sentence for organising shootings, drug deals and firearms activity, while Craig Makinson was involved in multi-million-pound cocaine, heroin and amphetamine dealing and helped finance the AK-47. Proceeds-of-crime hearings involving Rothwell, Makinson and others were adjourned until October.

Four years after 22-year-old Sam Rimmer was shot dead on Lavrock Bank in Dingle, no one has been charged despite ten arrests. Merseyside Police believe the killing was a targeted, gang-related attack involving four people on electric bikes, and say those suspected of direct involvement remain engaged in serious criminality. Investigators are seeking missing evidence, including the bikes, the Skorpion submachine gun and witness information, while Crimestoppers has extended a reward of up to £20,000 for information leading to a conviction.

Candace DeSilva, a 37-year-old Anfield mother of four, drove away during her arrest after failing a roadside alcohol test at nearly three times the legal limit, dragging a police officer several car lengths and injuring his hand. She pleaded guilty to causing serious injury by dangerous driving and assaulting an emergency worker. The officer told Liverpool Crown Court that he suffered severe and lifelong physical and psychological injuries. DeSilva received a 28-month sentence suspended for two years, with the judge citing the impact of immediate imprisonment on her four children, two of whom have special educational needs. The Royal College of Physicians, where she worked as an account manager, said it was taking appropriate employment action after becoming aware of the case.

Hundreds of people joined the Chester Pride 2026 parade, with crowds displaying flags, banners and colourful costumes throughout the city. The event continued with performances by Danny Beard, 911, Kelly Llorenna and Sonia, while Chester Pride chair Warren Lee and council leader Louise Gittins highlighted inclusion, diversity and solidarity with LGBTQ+ communities. The gallery features 21 photographs from the parade and its celebratory atmosphere.

A mural celebrating Jürgen Klopp and Liverpool Football Club’s 2020 Premier League title win has been painted over on Jamaica Street in Liverpool’s Baltic Triangle. Created by local artist Caleb, the mural stood beside the area’s Liver Bird Wings artwork and has been replaced with the words “murals pending.” A separate Klopp mural by Manchester artist Akse remains nearby on Jordan Street.

Twenty-four-year-old Korben Bell, from the Cheshire area, died in hospital after a one-vehicle motorcycle crash in the Queensway Tunnel between Birkenhead and Liverpool on August 11. Merseyside Police said the collision occurred about two-thirds of the way through the tunnel toward Liverpool. Detective Sergeant Kurt Timpson is leading the ongoing investigation, and police have appealed for witnesses and anyone with information to come forward.

Kenneth Unsworth, a 46-year-old man from Huyton, was found in a roadside stream near the A90 in Scotland four days after he was reported missing. An inquest concluded that he died from hypothermia while under the influence of cocaine and alcohol, with immersion in water potentially contributing. Police Scotland found no suspicious circumstances, but the coroner issued an open verdict because it remained unclear why Unsworth was in Scotland or how he came to be in the stream.

Massage therapist Steven Cafferky was convicted at Preston Crown Court of 13 counts of sexual assault on women and outraging public decency. Prosecutors said he sexually abused customers during home massage sessions and was also responsible for an unrelated assault on a woman in Blackpool. The investigation identified 10 massage customers as victims, several of whom came forward after a police appeal. Cafferky denied wrongdoing, but was found guilty after a week-long trial and will be sentenced on September 29.

Neil Jones and Tobiasz Kozlowski were convicted of murdering Tomasz Samel, who was kidnapped in Birmingham in March 2019, tortured, doused in petrol and set on fire before being left in rural Lancashire. Kevin Wooden and Kye Arthur were acquitted of murder but convicted of manslaughter, while Kozlowski’s wife, Sandra Kozlowska, was convicted of assisting an offender. Prosecutors linked the attack to the loss of £1 million worth of illicit and counterfeit cigarettes seized by HM Revenue and Customs. All defendants were remanded or bailed ahead of sentencing on October 9.

HMP Berwyn officer Cally White, 26, pleaded guilty to accessing prisoners' computer records without authorisation more than 100 times and contacting Ryan Hamid under the alias “Sophie Wright.” She searched records belonging to Hamid and fellow prisoner David Blackburn, including personal details, offences and release information, while calls included discussions about prison staff, shifts and other prisoners. White was sentenced at Mold Crown Court to nine months in prison suspended for one year, along with rehabilitation, 200 hours of community service and £1,000 in prosecution costs. The court linked the case to Hamid and Blackburn’s previous convictions for leading or participating in substantial Merseyside and North Wales drug-trafficking operations.

Daniel Hughes, a former Merseyside Police temporary sergeant injured twice in the line of duty, was convicted of eight counts of unauthorized computer access and three counts of unlawfully disclosing personal data. Over several years he maintained undisclosed social relationships with criminals involved in fraud, drug trafficking and money laundering, searched police systems for information about them and shared sensitive details in WhatsApp chats. Prosecutors found no evidence that he profited from the searches or passed intelligence directly to offenders, so he was not charged with misconduct in public office. Hughes was dismissed from the force and sentenced to 12 months in prison suspended for two years, 250 hours of unpaid work, rehabilitation activity and a £750 fine.

Raymond “Ray” Gilbert, who served 36 years for the 1981 murder of Liverpool betting-shop manager John Suffield Jnr, has gained renewed hope after the Criminal Cases Review Commission confirmed that case files and previously untested forensic materials were preserved. Samples reportedly include scrapings from beneath the victim’s hands and a fingerprint-bearing envelope, which could potentially yield DNA evidence identifying another perpetrator. Gilbert maintains that his confession was coerced and that the crime scene was misinterpreted or staged. His supporters are urging the CCRC to test the evidence, while the commission says its review remains ongoing.

Steven Wales, 61, pleaded guilty at Liverpool Crown Court to preventing the lawful and decent burial of Paul “Smigger” Smith, whose body was found in a wheelie bin after he is believed to have overdosed in a bath. Wales was released on unconditional bail and will be sentenced on August 18, with immediate imprisonment among the possible outcomes. Smith, who died from mixed drug toxicity, had been linked to the fatal July 2025 arson attack that killed Eric Greener and Sheila Jackson in St Helens; three other people were convicted in that case. A murder investigation into Smith’s death was later closed after the inquest found that a third party’s involvement could not be proved.

Thomas Waring, sentenced to nine years for possessing a prohibited weapon, assisting Connor Chapman after Elle Edwards' murder and failing to comply with a disclosure notice, may be released on licence in October after serving 40% of his sentence. Edwards' father, Tim, called the prospect a devastating “kick in the teeth,” particularly because the murder weapon has never been found. The Labour government's early-release scheme was introduced to address prison overcrowding, but victims' families have criticized its eligibility rules. The government has excluded rape and serious child-sex offences but says broader exemptions could leave the prison system unable to function.

A hack of the Police National Legal Database reportedly exposed the names, work email addresses and force locations of more than 114,000 subscribers, most of them police officers. The breach is understood to have affected staff across all 43 police forces in England and Wales, including Merseyside Police, while passwords and other security credentials were reportedly not compromised. The PNLD is working with cybersecurity specialists and the National Crime Agency, has contacted affected organizations, and notified the Information Commissioner's Office. The suspected group, ExfilSquad, has also reportedly accessed data linked to the Ministry of Defence, Home Office, National Crime Agency and Crown Prosecution Service.

A woman was arrested on suspicion of breaching the peace after grappling with a Merseyside Police officer who was attempting to speak to her son during a suspected burglary investigation in Netherton. Police later established that no burglary had taken place, and the woman was released. Video footage shows the officer pushing her away, threatening to use PAVA spray and telling the boy he had no choice about speaking to police. Merseyside Police said its professional standards department is reviewing the incident; no formal complaint or referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct has been made.

Military police officers seen in Liverpool city centre were conducting a routine liaison and community patrol, according to the Ministry of Defence. The Royal Military Police coordinated with Merseyside Police during a short patrol as part of ongoing engagement linked to the proximity of Dale Barracks and the presence of service community members in the area. The sighting, which drew public speculation after being posted by volunteer group Liverpool Guardians, was clarified as standard activity by junior officers from the 1st Regiment Royal Military Police.

A new court image of murder suspect Joshua Kerry was released as a provisional June 2027 trial date was set for the killing of former MP Ann Widdecombe. Kerry is accused of driving from Rotherham to Devon and striking Widdecombe more than 20 times with a hammer before stealing her wallet. Police continue to investigate potential political or terrorist motives. Widdecombe’s inquest confirmed a post‑mortem has been conducted, while upcoming hearings are scheduled at the Old Bailey. Her death has renewed calls for improved security for UK MPs.

A court hearing revealed that former MP Ann Widdecombe suffered 21 hammer blows to the head, with Joshua Kerry charged with her murder after being found at her Devon home. Prosecutors outlined the timeline leading to the discovery of her body, including missed commitments and a welfare check. Kerry was remanded in custody, and investigators continue to examine potential political or terrorist motives. An inquest confirmed blunt force head injuries as the provisional cause of death. The case has prompted renewed concerns over MP security following recent high‑profile killings.

The Open Championship winner at Royal Birkdale will receive £2.4 million, with prize money increasing slightly from the previous year. Second and third place payouts are £1,373,800 and £880,800 respectively, and professionals alone qualify for earnings, with amounts listed down to 70th place. Sam Burns leads the tournament at -10, with Tommy Fleetwood five shots back entering the final round.

Travellers across Merseyrail’s network experienced confusion after the late cancellation of planned strike action left station display boards and online journey planners without updated timetables. Although services were running normally, many boards instructed passengers to check destinations on the front of trains. The disruption coincided with heavy traffic for the final day of The Open in Birkdale, prompting Merseyrail to outline service frequencies and travel advice. The strike was averted after staff accepted a two‑year 7.25% pay deal.

Forecast models indicate that late July could bring the UK’s most intense heatwave of the year, with temperatures potentially reaching 38C across western, central and eastern England. The Global Forecast System shows rising temperatures from July 27 to 29, surpassing the current annual high of 37.7C. As many as 15 counties could reach 38C, while Merseyside may see around 32C. The Met Office notes uncertainty beyond the 10‑day outlook but reports that above‑average temperatures remain likely. North West conditions this week are expected to stay mostly dry with sunny spells and moderate temperatures.

A Volvo drove through a barrier at the entrance of the Rice Lane Aldi car park in Walton, blocking access and damaging a wooden pole and a street light. Eyewitnesses reported the vehicle appeared to exit the car park when it struck the barrier, drawing a crowd as staff assessed the situation. Police had not yet arrived when photos were taken, and the car park’s reopening time remains unknown, though the store continues to operate.

A man in his 30s was found with stab wounds to his face and back on Olney Street in Walton after an early‑morning incident reported by North West Ambulance Service. He was taken to hospital in stable condition, and a 36‑year‑old Liverpool man was arrested on suspicion of wounding with intent. Police are conducting house‑to‑house, CCTV and forensic inquiries and appealing for local footage or information. A small cordon remained in place with visible blood, clothing and medical equipment used in first aid.

Merseyside Police established a designated protest area in Kirkby town centre to enforce new legislation prohibiting identity concealment during protests as an anti‑immigration demonstration is expected. Shops closed and a family event continued nearby as officers prepared to impose conditions aimed at preventing disorder and disruption. The force outlined its impartial approach and commitment to using available powers to minimise impact on residents amid concerns over previous antisocial behaviour at similar protests in the region.

An Albanian man, Denis Hani, was sentenced to 14 months in prison after admitting he used a fake Cypriot marriage certificate to enter the UK and obtain leave to remain under the EU Settlement Scheme. The document enabled him to work legally and earn over £24,000 in the last financial year. The court heard the certificate was exposed as false after checks by Cypriot authorities. Judge David Swinnerton said the offence undermined the immigration system but acknowledged Hani had worked and paid taxes. Hani plans to return to Albania and will be deported after serving his sentence. He is one of five Albanian men charged in connection with a wider investigation into fake marriages arranged to gain UK residency.

Two Irish men, James Reilly and Gary Byrne, were sentenced to 10 additional years in prison for drugging and sexually assaulting a 19‑year‑old man in 2016, while already serving sentences for earlier offences. Reilly’s family believes the pair have harmed more victims, including potentially during the period they lived and worked in Liverpool in 2017. The family released photos to encourage any further victims to come forward and expressed support for anyone affected. The men were convicted in Limerick’s Central Criminal Court after evidence showed they incapacitated the victim with a spiked drink before assaulting him.

Karen Palmer was sentenced to seven and a half years in prison after admitting to wounding her husband with intent following years of severe physical, emotional and financial abuse. Emergency services found the victim with multiple stab wounds and long-term scarring, leading to the exposure of a two‑decade pattern of daily violence and coercive control. Bodycam footage from Palmer’s arrest showed her asking police to look after her pets as investigators prepared to search the home. A detailed victim impact statement described life‑altering injuries and constant fear. Merseyside Police highlighted the victim’s resilience in reporting the abuse and emphasized the severity and frequency of the attacks that led to Palmer’s conviction.

A Wirral woman, Karen Palmer, was sentenced to seven and a half years in prison for a decades‑long campaign of violent abuse against her husband, whom she frequently punched, slashed and stabbed. The victim, who hid his injuries for years using superglue and tape, described severe physical and psychological trauma in court. Evidence detailed escalating violence culminating in a serious knife attack in March 2026. The court highlighted Palmer’s controlling behavior, financial domination, and emotional abuse, with mental health issues noted but not offered as mitigation. An indefinite restraining order was imposed, and police praised the victim’s courage in supporting the prosecution.

Merseyside Police introduced a dispersal zone and new protest‑related powers ahead of an anti‑immigration march and counter‑protest on County Road, following significant disruption during similar events last month. Newly enacted legislation now allows officers to act against individuals concealing their identity within designated protest areas. Police leadership stressed impartiality and the limited legal grounds for prohibiting marches, while local political figures raised concerns about the protest’s impact on a community still recovering from past riots. Businesses prepared for potential unrest, and previous demonstrations resulted in several arrests.

Eddie Gilfoyle’s conviction for the 1992 death of his pregnant wife continues to draw scrutiny as new and historic evidence suggests major police and procedural failings. Despite serving 18 years and consistently denying guilt, multiple applications to the Criminal Cases Review Commission have failed to overturn the verdict. Reports highlight lost evidence, undisclosed police documents, and evolving understanding of prenatal mental health, while former senior police officials, legal advocates and family supporters call the case a serious miscarriage of justice. Gilfoyle’s late wife’s family maintains his guilt, and a new Channel 4 documentary revisits the case and remaining avenues for challenge.

Senior Merseyside Police leaders received significant increases in salary and pension contributions despite the force facing more than £3.5 million in required savings. Former chief constable Serena Kennedy and current chief constable Rob Carden collectively accounted for over £322,500 in remuneration, while total pay for senior staff rose by more than £383,000 to £2.29 million. Police and crime commissioner Emily Spurrell also saw a rise in overall pay and emphasised transparency and the importance of securing investment for community safety. The force’s accounts highlight continued financial pressures, including a £9 million savings requirement and concerns over the 2026 pay award, which could increase budget strain if it exceeds anticipated levels.

Inspectors report that HMP Liverpool has reduced drug prevalence and improved recovery support but remains highly vulnerable to drone-based smuggling due to outdated and insecure prison wings awaiting refurbishment. Despite improved cooperation with law enforcement and reductions in drone sightings, drug finds, and illicit phone use, significant investment in secure windows and physical security is still required. Government funding is planned to strengthen vulnerable prisons, while previous investigations have uncovered extensive drone smuggling operations linked to organised crime groups.

Inspectors found HMP Liverpool had reduced its positive drug test rate but still had unacceptably high substance use, along with poor living conditions and inadequate education provision. Progress was reported in reduced self-harm rates, improved staff attendance, and better management of security risks, though older units remained in need of refurbishment and too many prisoners were unemployed. The Ministry of Justice highlighted investment in security and estate improvements, while inspectors urged greater ambition to provide meaningful activity and education for inmates.