Gosport Woman Jailed for Blocking Murder Inquiry Phone Access
A 27-year-old woman from Gosport has landed a 12-month prison sentence after refusing to hand over her phone passcode in a murder investigation. Rianne Doughty’s standstill is a major twist in the probe into the stabbing death of 64-year-old Mark Noke in Southampton.
Stabbing Victim Found in Flat
Mark Noke was discovered at his flat on Warburton Road with a fatal single chest stab wound on February 25. Police swiftly arrested and charged five men linked to his murder.
Passcode Refusal Sparks Jail Sentence
Doughty became a key person of interest when detectives believed her phone held critical evidence. Despite a court order under the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000, she refused to unlock her device. Claiming she forgot the pin, Doughty was charged with ignoring a Section 49 notice demanding access to protected data.
At Southampton Crown Court on Monday, the jury found her guilty. The judge handed down a 12-month prison sentence for obstructing justice.
Detective Calls Out Obstruction
“By refusing to provide us with the passcode for her phone, Doughty sought to delay and frustrate our enquiries, trying to stall us as we worked hard to find answers for the devastated family of Mark Noke,” said DCI Howard Broadribb of the Major Crime Investigation Team. “Refusing to provide this information doesn’t shield you from action. Anyone obstructing justice like this will be charged.”
Family Pay Heartfelt Tribute
Mark Noke’s family described him as “a kind and loving member of our family who also touched the lives of so many others with his warmth, kindness, and generosity.” They added he had “a ready smile, a listening ear, and a compassionate heart that drew people to him.”
The long investigation and Doughty’s refusal to cooperate have deepened the family’s grief, but they remain determined to see justice done.
