Jurors Caught Googling Shooting Suspects Mid-Trial
Four jurors used their phones to research defendants in two Nottinghamshire shootings — sparking chaos in the courtroom.
Shootings Sparked High-Profile Trials
- First incident: On 2 October 2018, multiple shots fired through a window at a house in Upper Langwith.
- Second incident: On 3 November 2018, a young woman was hit in the arm by gunfire from a moped rider near Das Kino bar, Fletcher Gate, Nottingham.
Jurors Break Rules, Share Info Online
During trial retirement, it emerged jurors Tina Denning, Ann-Marie Fletcher, Sharon Doughty, and Jamie Lowe had conducted unauthorised online searches about the case. Some even shared their findings with others on the jury.
The scandal forced the jury to be discharged mid-deliberations, delaying justice and adding extra stress for witnesses.
Sentences Handed Down
- Jamie Lowe, 27, of Long Eaton, Derbyshire, pleaded guilty to four counts of researching the case. He got a four-month jail sentence, suspended for 12 months, plus 80 hours unpaid work.
- Tina Denning, 50, from Nottingham, admitted one count of researching and another of sharing info with jurors. She received the same suspended sentence and unpaid work order.
Detective Chief Inspector Mark Sinski said: “These four jurors knew they shouldn’t research the case. Their actions wasted public money, caused trauma for witnesses having to repeat their evidence, and delayed justice. The sentences should warn others about their serious duty.”
