Hull: Killer of “good natured dad” jailed for 10 years

A man has been jailed for 10 years after he admitted to killing 53-year-old father and grandfather Neville Morrison in Hull earlier this year.

James Hayman, 37, of Broadstone Close, Hull, was initially charged with Neville’s murder and was due to go to trial following an altercation between the two at Neville’s home address on Roborough Close, Bransholme, on Sunday 6 March.

However, a charge of manslaughter and a guilty plea was accepted in an appearance at Hull Crown Court on Tuesday 23 August, following Hayman’s admission that whilst he did seriously assault Neville following a disagreement, he did not intend to fatally wound him.

On the morning of 6 March, officers were called to Neville’s home address following reports of concern for safety and sadly found him deceased inside the property.

Neville had suffered fatal injuries following a tear to his spleen during an altercation with Hayman that had ensued after a disagreement between the pair.

The two men had been friends, however Hayman had been taking advantage of Neville and was exploiting the use of his home for his own needs.

Today (Friday 16 September), Hayman returned to Hull Crown Court to be sentenced for Neville’s manslaughter and received a 10-year prison sentence, with an additional four years on licence due to being a dangerous offender.

Senior Investigating Officer Superintendent Doug Blackwood said: “Before I address today’s outcome at court, I would like to extend my gratitude to Neville’s family who have shown incredible strength throughout court proceedings.

“Whilst the outcome at court cannot sadly bring Neville back, I really hope that it provides them with some comfort in knowing the man responsible for Neville’s death is now behind bars and unable to harm anyone else.

“James Hayman took advantage of Neville’s relaxed and easy-going, good nature for his own selfish needs over a prolonged period of time, and then sadly fatally assaulted him.

“I’m pleased he admitted what he did, sparing Neville’s family the further heartache of a trial and that we have been able to bring him to justice.

“This was a complex investigation which involved a number of lines of enquiry and I would like to thank all of my colleagues at Humberside Police and the public for their assistance in helping us find the answers for Neville’s family.”

Speaking of their heart-breaking loss, Neville’s family said: “We cannot begin to put into words the devastation and heartache we have endured since losing dad earlier this year.

“This was a senseless and callous attack and we will never be able to comprehend why anybody would carry out such drastic and unforgiveable actions over a disagreement.

“He exploited our dad’s good nature and caring personality, and now dad will never get to see his grandchildren grow up.

“We are pleased James Hayman is now in prison being punished for his actions, but this does not bring our dad or our children’s granddad back and we now have to learn to live in a world without him.”

Judge Thackray KC said: “This is a lengthy sentence due to a clear pattern of behaviour of using extreme violence to solve problems. You have caused a lifetime of heartache to the family and friends of Neville Morrison.”

A second man, Anthony Finnegan, 50, of Hagley Road, Birmingham, was also charged at the time with Neville’s murder. He previously entered a not guilty plea and following the admission and conviction of Hayman for manslaughter, the charge has now discontinued.