Dying Leeds uncle's attacker given longer jail term

Alan Morrison, 43, of Fourth Avenue, Rothwell, was sentenced to four years’ imprisonment at Leeds Crown Court last December.

Yesterday, though, his sentence was increased to nine years by the Court of Appeal following a referral by Solicitor General Robert Buckland QC MP.

Mr Buckland said the facts of the case were “shocking” and “appalling”.

Morrison tricked his way into his 68-year-old uncle’s flat in October 2014 by posing as another of his nephews.

He then attacked his uncle – who was dying of lung cancer – by strangling and smothering him before slashing at him with a knife, causing injuries to his wrists.

Morrison stole the man’s wallet, which contained about £1,900 in cash, and some personal items. He also took his mobile phone so he would not be able to raise the alarm. Morrison’s attempts to evade capture proved fruitless, however, and he was arrested later that day

The victim had been saving money to pay for his own funeral and sadly passed away before his nephew’s trial.

Mr Buckland welcomed the Court of Appeal’s decision to quash Morrison’s original sentence.

Speaking after yesterday’s hearing, he said: “The facts of this case are quite shocking, involving appalling violence towards an elderly victim and the theft of his life savings.

“It was obvious to me that this sentence needed to be looked at again, and I am very pleased the Court of Appeal has substantially increased Morrison’s sentence.”

The Solicitor General can ask the Court of Appeal to examine crown court sentences that appear unduly lenient.