16/05/2008

Teens Handed Life Sentences For Cyclist Murder

Four men have been sentenced to a total of 79 years imprisonment for the murder of a cyclist.

A gang of four set upon Stephen Green (55), from Luton as he made his way home on his bike last May.

Reports say he was kicked, stamped on and battered by the gang.

He was admitted to Luton and Dunstable Hospital where he died from his injuries.

All four defendants were unanimously found guilty of the murder of Mr Green in April.

Nicholas Garland, 18, Shane Liddy, 19, and Richard McNamara, 19 and Darryll Bennett, 18, all from Luton were sentenced for the murder of Mr Green as well as conspiracy to rob. Bennett was also convicted of perverting the course of justice.

Garland will serve 12 years in prison, Liddy will serve 16 years and a further three for conspiracy to rob and McNamara was handed down 15 years and a further three years for conspiracy to rob.

Bennett who is thought to have been the ring leader was handed down 19 years imprisonment, six years for conspiracy to rob and a further two years for perverting the course of justice.

The court heard that the gang had been intoxicated after drinking brandy and strong beer as well as smoking cannabis before attacking Mr Green.

It is reported that the four teenagers had gathered in a lonely motorway underpass "waiting to beat up someone".

Prior to the trial, Bennett, Garland, and McNamara pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of manslaughter and conspiracy to rob.

Speaking after the sentencing today, the Senior Investigationg Officer, Detective Inspector John Giles said: "I am satisfied that justice has been done and I hope that Richard’s family will be able to put this horrendous ordeal behind them and begin to rebuild their lives."

Judge John Bevan QC said to the defendants that that their "despicable, self indulgent cowardice" fitted their behaviour and that they were all "out of control".

Mr Green's brother said that "it is terrible what these people have done" and that they "devastated" his family.

Mr Green had served in the Royal Army Ordnance Corps for nine years and was made a corporal.

(DS)


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