This week, some of the region’s most shocking criminal cases concluded with significant prison sentences. From a notorious gangster involved in gangland shootings and drug operations to individuals responsible for stalking, theft, and blackmail, here is a roundup of key stories from Manchester’s courts.
Jamie Rothwell: The Gangster Behind a Reign of Terror
Salford crime boss Jamie Rothwell, 38, was sentenced to 43 years in prison for orchestrating underworld hits, distributing £7 million worth of cocaine, and supplying large caches of weapons. Operating from a luxury hideout in Barcelona, Rothwell ordered shootings in Warrington as part of a violent gangland feud. His exposure came after European authorities hacked EncroChat, a communications platform heavily utilized by organized crime groups. Twice extradited to the UK, Rothwell’s involvement in a Salford gang war, which included the murder of Paul Massey, sealed his fate. His sentencing at Manchester Crown Court has been described as a major victory for law enforcement.
Jordan Ellis: The Terror of Snapchat Blackmail
Jordan Ellis subjected a family to months of distress through blackmail and threats. Using a fake Snapchat account, Ellis approached his victim with promises of financial gain, convincing him to share his bank details. Instead, Ellis took over the account, repeatedly demanding money and even threatening to burn the victim’s house down. The family endured continuous harassment before alerting authorities, leading to Ellis’s arrest and eventual imprisonment.
Vicky Heaton: Prolific Thief Targeting Manchester’s Piccadilly Station
Vicky Heaton, a notorious 48-year-old thief, was sentenced this week after a spree of crimes at Manchester’s Piccadilly Station. Entering a staff room in a bar on the upper concourse, Heaton stole wallets, cash, and other valuables before attempting to flee. Her actions caused significant distress to her victims, but CCTV footage enabled British Transport Police to apprehend her. She is now behind bars.
Philip Beaulieu: Dangerous High-Speed Chase and Chilling Threats
Philip Beaulieu, 39, led police on a dangerous high-speed chase through Widnes, ignoring traffic lights and driving recklessly. Caught without a valid driving license or insurance, Beaulieu was later arrested at a registered keeper’s address. On the way to custody, he issued chilling threats to burn down an officer’s house. His actions resulted in a 12-month prison sentence, highlighting the dangers posed by unlicensed and reckless drivers.
Robert Forshaw: A Stalker’s Digital Campaign of Terror
Jilted stalker Robert Forshaw used fake social media accounts to harass his ex-partner following a brief relationship. Bombarding her with malicious messages, Forshaw even contacted her workplace with false allegations. His campaign of intimidation escalated when he used his fake accounts to track her in public, sending a message at a sporting event stating, “I’m only 50 yards away from you.” Forshaw’s actions have led to his imprisonment, offering relief to his victim.
Jitander “Jaz” Mistry: A Café Regular Turned Stalker
Jitander Mistry, known as Jaz, turned from a friendly café patron into a stalker harassing staff members. Sending love letters to one victim and threatening violence against another, Mistry’s behavior became increasingly disturbing. His threats escalated to talk of carrying a knife, leading to his arrest and a sentence of nearly two years behind bars along with a six-year restraining order.
Stay tuned for more updates from Manchester’s courts as we continue to follow the region’s most significant cases.
