ANTHONY SUTCLIFFE OF WIDNES SHOCKS COURT WITH VIOLENT OUTBURST AFTER SEX CRIME VERDICT

In a dramatic and unsettling incident at Warrington Crown Court, the proceedings took a disturbing turn when Anthony Sutcliffe, a man from Widnes, was found guilty of serious sexual offences involving a minor. The verdict, which was delivered unanimously by the jury, marked the culmination of a week-long trial that had kept the court on edge. However, the courtroom atmosphere was shattered shortly after the jury announced their decision.

Moments after the guilty verdict was read, Anthony Sutcliffe’s sister, Nicola Sutcliffe, a 43-year-old woman residing in Cherry Sutton, Widnes, erupted in a violent outburst that shocked everyone present. Her reaction was not only verbal but also physical, as she launched into an attack on a prosecution witness, who was a member of the victim’s family. Witnesses and court officials watched in disbelief as she spat at the witness, and in the process, she also punched and pushed others in her fury. The scene was so intense that a jury member was seen crying as the chaos unfolded.

The incident occurred in front of the court’s staff, members of the jury, and the victim’s family, who had been seated in the public gallery. The court staff quickly intervened, rushing to protect the witnesses from further harm and escorting Ms. Sutcliffe out of the courtroom. The jury was immediately removed from the courtroom to ensure their safety and to allow the court to regain order. The judge, Tina Landale, expressed her regret over the disruption but acknowledged the importance of maintaining decorum in the courtroom.

Following her arrest, Ms. Sutcliffe was detained around 11:30 am and appeared before Judge Tina Landale by 3 pm. She was charged with contempt of court and, after being granted legal representation, pleaded guilty to the offence. Her defense attorney, Simon Minsk, described her as a previously well-behaved individual who was overwhelmed by emotion and unable to control herself during the proceedings. Minsk explained that her outburst was partly due to her not taking her medication in the days leading up to the trial.

Judge Landale emphasized the necessity of setting a strong example to deter such behavior in court. She pointed out that Ms. Sutcliffe had ignored warnings to behave properly and had immediately attacked the witness and the victim’s mother after the verdict was announced. The judge highlighted that her actions caused significant distress to the jury, impairing their ability to carry out their duties without intimidation. As a result, Ms. Sutcliffe was sentenced to 12 months in prison for contempt of court, with her sentence to be served immediately.

Meanwhile, her brother, Anthony Sutcliffe, who was convicted of indecent assault and gross indecency with a child under 14, is awaiting sentencing scheduled for June 17. The victim, who chose not to attend the court during the verdict, expressed her relief and gratitude for the judge’s decisive action. She shared her feelings of disbelief and disappointment at her family’s behavior, especially given her perception of Ms. Sutcliffe’s role in social services. The victim also reflected on the emotional toll of coming forward but conveyed a sense of relief and renewed confidence now that justice has been served. Her statement underscored the importance of accountability and the impact of the court’s firm response to the shocking assault on her family during such a sensitive trial.