School hoaxer, corrupt prison watchdog, and drug-dealing taxi driver among seven jailed
Seven criminals from Merseyside have been sentenced to a combined total of 32 years and one month in prison over the past week. Among them are a hoaxer who threatened to shoot pupils at three schools, the corrupt chair of HMP Liverpool's independent watchdog who smuggled drugs into the prison, and a taxi driver caught with thousands of pounds of cocaine stashed between his legs.
Darren Rigby: School hoaxer jailed for 28 months
Darren Rigby, 21, sent a series of terrifying emails to all-girls schools, claiming he was on his way with a revolver and machete to shoot and stab pupils. Schools were placed in lockdown as children cried and asked if they would be harmed. Rigby pleaded guilty to sending communications threatening death or serious harm, possession of an offensive weapon (a police baton), and possession of cannabis. He was jailed for 28 months.
Helen Spree and Dylan Westall: Corrupt prison watchdog and inmate
Helen Spree, 63, chair of HMP Liverpool's watchdog, operated a drug smuggling operation described as a "Deliveroo for prisoners." She had inappropriate relationships with three inmates, including Dylan Westall, a convicted killer serving life for manslaughter. Spree kept pillows with Westall's face and confessed love to another prisoner. She pleaded guilty to misconduct in a public office and was jailed for five years and three months. Westall received an additional year, while others involved received suspended sentences.
Robert Mattravers: Paedophile jailed for life
Robert Mattravers, 47, from Runcorn, was sentenced to life in prison for raping two children. He pleaded guilty to multiple counts of rape, sexual assault, and making indecent images. He must serve a minimum of 11 years and eight months.
Warren Childs: Taxi driver caught with cocaine
Warren Childs, 45, from West Derby, was caught with thousands of pounds of cocaine between his legs in Liverpool city centre. He turned to drug dealing after accumulating £30,000 in debts. He admitted possession with intent to supply and was jailed for 28 months.
Steven Matthews: Masked thug banned from Tesco
Steven Matthews, 48, from Bootle, threatened Tesco staff with a mallet and stole wine, leading to a lifetime ban from the store. He also set fire to a woman's flat in revenge and sent threatening texts. He pleaded guilty to arson, malicious communications, robbery, and other offences. He was jailed for six years and eight months.
