News story

North Shields robbers receive increased sentences

The Court of Appeal has today increased the unduly lenient sentences of Paul Oliver and Thomas Bailey to 19 years’ imprisonment with an extended four year licence period for a number of violent offences.

The pair were convicted for their involvement in a series of robberies and burglaries as well as possession of a firearm and ammunition. Both men were sentenced to 14 years’ imprisonment, with an additional four years of supervision.

The Solicitor General, Robert Buckland QC MP referred those sentences to the Court of Appeal and after today’s hearing said:

“Oliver and Bailey were professional criminals, committing robberies which were sophisticated and involved a high degree of planning. The pair made it clear that they would use violence against anyone who got in their way and the offences had a terrible impact on those who were targeted.

“I felt that the original sentences ought to have been higher because of the number of offences against separate victims and I am pleased that the Court of Appeal has increased the sentences to 19 years.”

Published 10 December 2015