A High Court judge has lifted reporting restrictions, allowing the naming of two youths convicted of murdering Gary Belfield and attempting to kill his son.
Newcastle: A High Court judge has allowed the naming of two teenagers involved in a serious crime. Kriesha Stroud, 15, and Jordan Tams, 17, were convicted of murdering Gary Belfield and trying to kill his son, Luke Williams.
Previously, their identities were protected because they were under 18. However, ChronicleLive requested to lift these restrictions due to the serious nature of their crimes. The judge agreed to this request before the sentencing hearing.
During the trial, the judge had to consider the legal principles regarding reporting restrictions for young offenders. He noted that while protecting the welfare of young people is important, the public also has a right to know about serious crimes.
After their conviction, the judge decided that the public interest in knowing the offenders’ identities outweighed the need for anonymity. Stroud and Tams will serve lengthy sentences, with Tams and Leandro Lopes facing at least 26 years, while Stroud must serve 20 years.
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