Despite the well-documented lack of prison space, judges at Leeds Crown Court have had little choice but to dish out some of the harshest penalties to the most hardened of criminals over the last 12 months.
Brutal murderers, sick killers and devious paedophiles make up the lengthiest of spells behinds bars, with some destined not to taste freedom for the next 20 or maybe 30 years.
In some cases, these despised criminals will no doubt die behind bars - but few will shed a tear.
From a 34-year jail term for a double murder, to sex offenders whose sordid past caught up with them years later, here are a selection of some of the most depraved and outright dangerous criminals from the past 12 months.
And justice will undoubtedly continue to be served as 2025 ticks over, and a new batch of criminals have their day in court.
13. Simon Kirkby
Simon Kirkby, 64, was handed a 17-year jail sentence after admitting four counts of indecent assault, one of rape, two of causing or inciting children to engage in sexual activity, and one assault of a child under 13. The paedophile, who abused two young boys over an eight-year period, is in poor health and it was acknowledged that he could die behind bars. (from July 2024) | West Yorkshire Police/National World
14. George Chalmers
Ruth Baker (left) was murdered by her partner George Chalmers (right) when he strangled her to death in his Leeds home following an argument. He was told he must serve a minimum term of 17 years and six months for the brutal killing on Tempest Road, Beeston. (from October 2024) | West Yorkshire Police Photo: West Yorkshire Police
15. Andrew Weston
Andrew Weston (pictured) was jailed for eight years for the manslaughter of Ian Aspinall outside his home on Sandford Road, Kirkstall. He rained 21 blows down on him after a family dispute. It was all caught on CCTV outside the property. He was cleared of murder. (from March 2024) | WYP / Google Maps
16. Graham Sunter
Sunter (pictured) was given a 19-year jail sentence after being found guilty of abusing a boy more than 30 years ago. The 67-year-old was found guilty of nine sexual offences against the boy in the late 1980s and early 90s following a trial at Leeds Crown Court. (from October 2024) | WYP / Shutterstock
17. Gareth Dean
Gareth Dean (left) was jailed for 15 years and eight months at Leeds Crown Court for a glass attack in Revolucion last Christmas which left Matthew Syron (bottom right) blind. Dean had a history of violence and admitted GBH with intent. (from March 2024) | WYP / National World / SWNS
18. Reece Lawrence
Reece Lawrence, 29, was jailed for 10 years after admitting causing death by dangerous driving and failing to stop. He was thought to have been driving at around 88mph when he struck Michaela Fowles as she crossed a road in Tingley in June, killing the 25-year-old. (from July 2024) | West Yorkshire Police/National World