Man jailed for manslaughter of much-loved Truro market stall trader
Paul Lyal-Venables appeared in Truro Crown Court this morning
A Cornwall man has been jailed for five years for the manslaughter of a much-loved family man and market stall trader in Truro.
A 35-year-old has today (10 May) has been sentenced for the manslaughter of 54-year-old Luke Pocock in Truro in July 2022.
Paul Lyal-Venables, 35, from St Agnes, appeared before HHJ Judge Carr at Truro Crown court this morning.
The court heard that police had been called to reports of a serious assault outside the Railway Social Club on Station Road at around 10.30pm on Saturday 2 July 2022.
It had been reported that Lyal-Venables had punched Luke Pocock to the head in an unprompted attack, causing him to fall and sustain a substantial head injury.
Luke was initially taken to Treliske Hospital and was later transferred to Derriford Hospital for specialist care. He was pronounced dead on 28 July 2022.
Lyal-Venables initially told police that he had acted in self-defence but later retracted this and accepted that he had caused Luke’s death. He entered a guilty plea before the court at a pretrial hearing in March 2023.
Mr Pocock ran a gaming and trading stall called 'Faceless Monkey' at the city's Pannier Market and has been described as kind generous and warm hearted to all those who knew him.
His daughter Becca, who has now taken over his business in Truro, told the court she "cries almost every day" and is "reminded almost daily" about her father and how popular he was.
In a statement, Adam Pocock, Luke's son said: "It came as a huge shock to us. Dad's death has left a hole in our hearts and he is missed each and every day."
Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Inspector Rob Smith said: “This was a tragic incident which led to Luke Pocock sadly losing his life last year.
“Lyal-Venables was initially arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm with intent but was further arrested on suspicion of manslaughter after Luke passed away.
“The evidence has shown that Luke was assaulted in what was an unnecessary and senseless attack. This may have involved only a single punch, but the consequences have caused absolute devastation to the family and friends of all involved.
“I hope this incident will serve as a warning to others of the risks inherent in using violence against others and the damage that can cause.”
DI Smith continued: “Luke has been described as a kind and caring man, with a great sense of humour and deeply loved within the local community.
“I would like to pay tribute to Luke’s family for the composure and dignity they have shown throughout this process and thank them for the support they have given to the police.”