Two teens convicted of manslaughter over death of Newcastle schoolboy
6 teenagers were found Not Guilty of the murder of Gordon Gault
Last updated 15th Jan 2024
Two teenagers - on trial over the death of a 14 year old boy in Newcastle - have been convicted of manslaughter.
On the evening of November 9, 2022, emergency services attended the Elswick area following a report of an assault.
There they found 14-year-old Gordon Gault with a single stab wound to his upper right arm. Sadly, he died in hospital six days later.
Following the attack, an investigation was launched by Northumbria Police, with officers piecing together what had happened.
As a result of the complex investigation, six males – now aged between 16 and 18 – were all charged with murder.
They were also charged with wounding with intent to commit grievous bodily harm in relation to a second victim, who suffered an injury to his back.
They all denied both charges.
As part of the investigation, a number of weapons were also recovered.
During a trial at Newcastle Crown Court, the jury was told that Gordon was fatally wounded after an escalating dispute culminated in this violence.
Gordon, at 14 years of age, was the youngest person present.
One of those charged, Carlos Neto, from Manchester, admitted injuring Gordon but claimed it was in self-defence.
Today (Monday), following a trial, Neto, 18, of Manchester Road East, Little Hulton, and Lawson Natty, also 18, of Eastgarth, Newcastle, who supplied Neto with the machete used in the attack, were cleared of murder but have been convicted of manslaughter and unlawful wounding in relation to the second victim.
Both men have been remanded in custody and are due to be sentenced at a later date.
Four other teenagers, one aged 16, one aged 17 and two aged 18, were found not guilty of all charges.
Following the conclusion of the trial, the Senior Investigating Officer Detective Chief Inspector Matt Steel, of Northumbria Police, said: “This is an extremely tragic case in which a teenager, with his life ahead of him, had his future taken away.
“Our thoughts very much remain with Gordon’s loved ones, who have been left devastated by their loss. We will continue to support them at this extremely difficult time.
“Following this tragedy, officers have worked tirelessly for Gordon and his family. I thank them for their dedication and commitment.
“Those convicted had a choice – they chose violence. Their lives and those of the people who care about them have also been changed by the decisions they made.
“That should act as a lesson to anyone who goes out with a weapon, involves themselves in violence or encourages other to do so.”
He added: “As a Force, we are committed to working with our partners to reduce the impact of knife crime.
“But this is not an issue policing can tackle alone – as a society we must all come together to prevent violence.
“This includes continuing to educate young people and talking about the pain and suffering caused by knife crime.
“Our message to anyone who does pick up a weapon or involves themselves in violence is simple – think again.
“Make that choice today for yourself, your family, your friends and your community.”
Following the conclusion of the trial, Gordon’s loving mum Dionne Barrett paid a heartfelt tribute to her son.
She said: “We as a family will never get over Gordon’s death.
“To those who didn’t know Gordon he was a practical joker, always laughing and had a heart of gold.
“He cared for his family and friends so much. He was a big softy and loved his dog, Bruno.
“He was such a happy, loving young son who lit up the room with his energy.
“Life will simply never be the same without him.
“It breaks my heart that I will never get to hear him say ‘I love you Mam’ again.
“I am hugely grateful for the support and kind wishes since Gordon passed away. It is heartening to know that he has touched so many lives and his memory will live on.
“I want youngsters to understand the huge dangers of carrying knives.
“By carrying knives, you could not only ruin your life but that of your family and friends as well.
“In a split-second you could end someone’s life and destroy your own.
“Please, please think twice about getting involved in this kind of behaviour.
“I’d also like to thank the investigation team from Northumbria Police and the Prosecution Barristers.”