Stephen Dale, 47, was sentenced to 19 years in prison at Birmingham Crown Court on Monday for the manslaughter of Daniel Gardner, 36, whom he killed by setting fire to his flat. Dale, of Bordesley Green, Birmingham, also received an extended licence period of five years after being convicted of manslaughter and arson being reckless as to endanger life.
Background of the Crime
The court heard that Dale held a grudge against Gardner, who shared two children with Dale's girlfriend. By September last year, Dale was in a relationship with Gardner's former partner. In the early hours of September 19, Dale doused the door of Gardner's home in petrol and ignited it, leaving Gardner with no escape from the blaze. Gardner died at the scene in Highters Heath, Birmingham, while a neighbour had to be evacuated by firefighters.
Accomplice Sentenced
Dale recruited Tyler Phythian, 19, who lived at the same HMO address, to assist in the crime. Phythian was cleared of any homicide offences but found guilty of arson. He also admitted assault for throwing a can at a woman's face, causing a cut, in a separate incident in Stratford-upon-Avon in March 2024. Phythian was sentenced to four years detention.
Judge's Remarks
Judge Andrew Smith stated: 'You accepted without questioning, I am satisfied, your partner's assertions that Mr Gardner had treated at least one of the children badly. There is, I observe, absolutely no evidence to suggest that was true. In any event, you, I am sure, made plans to set fire to Mr Gardner's home address.' He added that Dale intended to 'frighten' Gardner and perhaps cause him some harm, but not serious harm or death.
Impact and Sentencing
The judge concluded: 'I am satisfied that there is a sustainable inference that Mr Gardner knew of the fire and did what he could to shelter from the effects of both smoke and flame without success. This must have been a terrifying experience before his collapse.' Dale will serve two-thirds of his custodial term—around 12 years and eight months—before being considered for release. Phythian could be released after serving 40% of his sentence.
