In July 2025, courts across Somerset delivered justice to a range of offenders responsible for serious and violent crimes. From dangerous drivers to repeat offenders, the penalties handed down demonstrate the commitment to public safety in the region.
Michael Atkinson, 38, from Taunton, was sentenced to over nine years in prison and disqualified from driving for nearly 12 years after a fatal crash. Atkinson, driving under the influence of cannabis, cocaine, and alcohol while disqualified, collided with 77-year-old Sally Blew, who sadly died. CCTV footage showed his erratic driving moments before the crash. His Honour Judge Paul Cook described Mrs. Blew as “a kind and gentle soul” and acknowledged the devastation caused by her death.
Louisianna Santillo, 44, from Combe Down, was jailed for two months following 17 shoplifting offences from The Co-operative in Bath over just two weeks. The court recognized her as operating as a professional criminal with a blatant disregard for others’ property. Santillo was also issued a two-year criminal behaviour order restricting her access to shops in certain areas upon release.
Philip Harding, 72, a repeat sex offender, received a 12-month prison sentence after being caught exposing himself inside a charity shop in Wiltshire. The offence, witnessed by a man and his young daughter, resulted in a 10-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order to restrict Harding’s future conduct.
Corey Poutney, 34, of Chippenham, was sentenced to 28 months imprisonment after pleading guilty to robbery, drug possession, and several theft charges. Poutney had violently attacked a person during a robbery at a Sports Direct store in Trowbridge and was found with class A drugs and equipment used for theft.
Adam Parsons, 21, of Wellington, received over eight months in prison after threatening a homeowner with a knife during a burglary. Parsons broke into two gardens, stole tools, caused criminal damage, and fled after the homeowner interrupted his crime. Community reports and electronic monitoring helped police identify and arrest him.
Kane Thomas, 36, of Warminster, was sentenced to two years in prison and given a 10-year restraining order after pleading guilty to burglary and harassment against a woman in her 30s. Injuring property, including smashing a TV, Thomas appeared at Winchester Crown Court in July.
Vinny Dean Conrad Morgan, 21, and his father Conrad Lee Morgan, 55, were both jailed following a serious collision in Bournemouth where a man lost his leg. Vinny was sentenced to 13 years and six months for grievous bodily harm with intent and other charges, along with a driving ban for over 10 years. Conrad received nine months for conspiracy and weapons offences.
These cases reflect the broad spectrum of criminal activity in the Somerset region and the determined response from the judiciary to ensure perpetrators face appropriate consequences.