John Henry Sayers and his son have declined to give evidence in their trial at the Old Bailey, where they deny causing grievous bodily harm with intent. The court heard that the Sayers family had been subjected to a campaign of attacks by an organised crime group, culminating in a Range Rover being driven into their home and set on fire.
Background of Attacks
Jurors were told that Sayers and his family had been targeted in a series of incidents over several years. In February last year, a Range Rover was driven into their home on Fossway, Byker, Newcastle, and set ablaze. The court heard that Sayers had not responded with violence in the previous three years, despite being warned his life was in danger and his mother's grave being vandalised.
The Incident in Question
When Sayers and his son, John Henry Sayers jnr, went outside their home, they caught Walter Patterson torching the Range Rover. They allegedly attacked him with a machete and a metal pole. Both defendants deny causing GBH with intent.
Decision Not to Give Evidence
Michael Holland KC, representing Sayers snr, informed the Central Criminal Court that he would not be calling his client to give evidence. Judge Philip Katz KC followed standard procedure, asking if Sayers had been advised of his right to give evidence and that the jury could draw inferences from his silence. Mr Holland confirmed the advice had been given. Laura Miller, for Sayers jnr, also confirmed he would not testify.
Police Interaction
Footage played in court showed police attending the Sayers home on January 31 last year after an arson attack. When asked about safeguarding, Sayers laughed and called the police a “complete f****** embarrassment,” adding, “Your bosses are protecting the people that have done it.” He stated, “Three years ago you said don’t do anything, we will sort it. You’ve done f*** all.”
Agreed Facts
Jurors were read agreed facts about previous attacks on the Sayers family. Junior prosecutor James Yearsley said a “number of individuals are known to be associated with the Freeman organised crime group,” which had a hierarchy and was controlled by John Freeman. The group was responsible for several incidents, including:
- In September 2022, a retail van owned by Sayers junior was set on fire by masked men in Newcastle city centre.
- In May 2023, a truck was reversed into the home of Stephen Sayers, causing a fire.
- In October 2024, Sayers snr’s mother’s grave was vandalised with spray paint; no arrests have been made.
- On January 31 last year, Sayers jnr’s VW Golf was set on fire outside their home.
Mr Yearsley added that police had information that the organised crime group was recruiting someone to murder Sayers snr, potentially in the presence of his children. Police issued a notice that Sayers and his family were at risk of serious harm.
Trial Continues
Sayers snr, 62, and Sayers jnr, 29, both of Fossway, Byker, Newcastle, deny causing GBH with intent. The trial continues.
