Four Jailed for Helping Gosport Murderers Dodge Justice
Four people have been locked up for aiding two brothers who carried out a savage cocaine-fuelled robbery and murder in Gosport. Joanne West, Sarah Flynn, Liam Savage, and Mark Phillips helped Tommy West, 18, and his half-brother Aiden West, 25, escape after the brutal killing of Levi Kent on November 24, 2023.
Brutal Murder Outside Nobes Avenue
The West brothers were convicted of stabbing Levi multiple times after luring him behind shops near Nobes Avenue at 2 AM. Levi tried to flee in his Vauxhall Corsa but crashed into a wall. Tommy West chased him down on Keyes Road, delivering a fatal stab to the heart plus six serious blunt-force injuries.
On Tuesday, Tommy West was sentenced to life in prison, with a minimum of 21 years. Aiden West got a heavier 28-year term. Aiden was found guilty of murder in August, while Tommy had earlier admitted to murder, robbery, and knife possession.
Family and Friends Sentenced for Covering Up
- Joanne West, 45, the brothers’ mum, got 15 months in prison for helping them escape.
- Sarah Flynn, 36, and Liam Savage, 38, each received 12 months for aiding the suspects.
- Mark Phillips, 56, was handed a six-month suspended sentence for perverting justice.
- Their father, Peter West, got two years for assisting an offender.
- Michael Figgins, 64, will be sentenced later for helping dump evidence.
Behind-the-Scenes: An Orchestrated Getaway
After the murder, the West brothers returned to James Close to change clothes. Sarah Flynn threw Tommy’s bloodied clothing in the bin. Joanne West booked a taxi to take her sons to Liam Savage’s house, where they joked on the ride.
Joanne was arrested on November 26, accused of plotting the getaway. Phillips, arrested alongside her, lied to police about the taxi booking.
Justice Served After Intense Probe
This string of sentences wraps up a tough investigation into Levi Kent’s killing, ensuring not only the murderers but everyone who helped them dodge arrest face the full force of the law.
