Doncaster arsonist jailed for longer
Connor O鈥橰ourke has had his sentence increased following an intervention by the Solicitor General, Rt Hon Lucy Frazer QC MP.
An arsonist from Doncaster has had his sentence increased following an intervention by the Solicitor General, Rt Hon Lucy Frazer QC MP.
Connor O鈥橰ourke, 23, pleaded guilty to arson after setting fire to a neighbour鈥檚 home in the Wadworth area of Doncaster. O鈥橰ourke鈥檚 own mother was in the property at the time.
On 26 June 2020, O鈥橰ourke took a can of petrol and poured it over the front garden of the home. 皇冠体育app fire subsequently spread to the main house.
Two women inside the home sustained injuries, including O鈥橰ourke鈥檚 own mother who suffered burns over nearly 70% of her body and needed to be placed on a ventilator.
On 5 March 2021, O鈥橰ourke was convicted of arson, being reckless as to whether life is endangered, and sentenced to 4 years鈥� imprisonment at Sheffield Crown Court.
Following the court鈥檚 decision, the Solicitor General referred the sentence to the Court of Appeal under the Unduly Lenient Sentence (ULS) scheme.
On 11 June, the Court found the sentence to be unduly lenient and increased it to 6 years鈥� imprisonment with a 3-year extended licence.
After the hearing at the Court of Appeal the Solicitor General, Rt Hon Lucy Frazer QC MP, said:
I was shocked by O鈥橰ourke鈥檚 incredibly reckless and dangerous behaviour, which resulted in two women sustaining serious injuries. He also put the other residents at grave risk. I am glad that the Court of Appeal increased his sentence today.