Hull mum who concealed evidence in single punch investigation jailed
Scott Akester died following a drunken disagreement
A mother who concealed crucial evidence after her son, Michael Pearson, killed Scott Akester with a single punch to the face following a drunken disagreement outside of a Hull pub has been jailed for six months.
Joanne Pearson, 61, of Saltshouse Road pleaded guilty to perverting the course of justice at Hull Crown Court on Friday 9 February.
She was subsequently bailed until her appearance last week, Friday 10 May, where the sentence was issued.
Known to each other, Michael Pearson and Scott Akester had been out drinking amongst friends in north Hull when they ventured to the Grandale pub on Sutton Park. The pair became involved in a minor altercation which was quickly defused by friends.
Approximately 20 minutes later along with other friends, they started walking their journey home, in the hope of catching a taxi. Walking ahead of Scott, Pearson then turned back on himself, approached Scott and punched him the face. Scott subsequently fell backwards and hit his head on the floor.
Emergency Services were deployed and commenced CPR in a bid to save Scott’s life, however he died in hospital from his injuries on Saturday, 19 November.
Whilst detectives conducted lines of enquiry, they discovered that Michael Pearson’s phone had been damaged and was found hidden in the coat pocket of Joanne Pearson.
Michael Pearson, 30, of Salthouse Road was found guilty Scott Akester’s manslaughter and sentenced to seven-and-a-half years in jail on Thursday 29 June 2023.
Detective Superintendent Al Curtis said: “Joanne concealed crucial evidence in an attempt to protect her son, with no consideration for Scott’s family who had been left without their dad, son and partner.
“I am pleased she admitted her irresponsible actions and acknowledged the further undue stress and upset caused to Scott’s family.
“Crimes like this will not be tolerated and we will always take action in a bid to deter violent crime in our communities.
“Whilst the majority of people arrive home safely after a night out, unfortunately, for some families, like the Akesters, it is the start of a living nightmare when they receive the heart-breaking news that their loved one has sustained life changing or fatal injuries from a single punch.”