Armed robber’s sentencing postponed after he hands note to judge

Jul 2 2009 by Gemma Jaleel, Ormskirk Advertiser

AN ARMED robber, who was due to be sentenced on Monday, has seen his case adjourned after handing in a last-minute piece of evidence.

Gareth Siarl Williams, 36, from Liverpool, appeared at Chester Crown Court after he admitted 15 charges including robbery and possession of a firearm at Corbett’s Bookmakers, Hoole, on March 2 and at The Local off-licence in Ormskirk on March 5.

He also admitted escaping lawful custody from Mold Crown Court on December 23 last year in addition to dangerous driving and driving while disqualified on March 7.

The adjournment was announced after Williams, who remained handcuffed to a security guard throughout the hearing, passed a handwritten letter to the judge via his defence barrister, Simon Mills, as he was delivering his mitigation.

After reading the letter, Judge David Clarke gave parties time to consult before adjourning sentence until tomorrow (Friday).

The contents of the letter, however, were not made public.

Judge Clarke expressed his disappointment that the letter had been presented right at the last minute.

He said: “Members of the public have come here hoping to hear the conclusion of this case.”