Gang jailed for 124 years for the murder of a man in Birkdale

Stephen Maguire was shot dead at his girlfriend's house in March

Author: Nathan MarshPublished 16th Dec 2020

Four men have been jailed for life for the murder of Stephen Maguire in Birkdale.

The 27 year old was shot twice at his partner's home on Guildford Road on the night of the 16th of March, when a gang raided his partner’s home and took three motorbikes.

Four men denied murder and other offences, leading to 15-day trial at Liverpool Crown Court.

28-year-old Karl Corson of Columbine Close, Melling was sentenced to life with a minimum of 33 years in prison.

21-year old Ryan Smith of Colquitt Street, Liverpool City Centre was sentenced to life with a minimum of 32 years in prison.

35-year-old Patrick Moogan of Willow Way, Croxteth was sentenced to life with a minimum of 30 years in prison.

22-year-old Jack Higgins of Sedgemoor Road, Norris Green was sentenced to life with a minimum of 29 years in prison.

Speaking after the sentencing, Detective Chief Inspector Rachel Wilson said: “It is pleasing to see today’s outcome, with these four men brought to justice for their involvement in what was the brutal killing of Stephen, in his home address. They will now spend a considerable portion of their lives in custody.

“We hope that these sentencings provide at least some comfort to Stephen’s family and friends as they continue to deal with their grief at his sudden and tragic loss.

“This has been a complex and comprehensive investigation and we’re grateful for all of those people who have come forward with information and assisted, which has allowed us to bring about a successful prosecution.

“Criminals involved in gun crime have no regard for anyone else and Stephen Maguire paid the ultimate price for the reckless and violent actions of others.

“Today’s outcome demonstrates Merseyside Police’s commitment to tackling gun crime and putting offenders behind bars. We have seen reductions in gun crime over recent years, and working with those communities affected we can continue to bring to justice those who bring dangerous weapons onto our streets. I would urge those communities who suffer from violent crime to keep providing information, and stand with us against the use of firearms and violence across Merseyside.

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