Cheryl Pickles jailed for child cruelty committed with partner Andrew Hadwin who died in prison awaiting sentence

Anne Richardson leading Jane Waugh secured the conviction of both Andrew Hadwin and Cheryl Pickles after an earlier 6 week trial at Teesside Crown Court.

Hadwin, 39, who was found guilty of raping a child and neglect, died at HMP Durham in February.

Prosecutor Anne Richardson, leading Jane Waugh, said both Pickles and Hadwin were “sadistic” and carried out “prolonged and serious acts of neglect” which showed a “complete disregard for welfare”.

Pickles was jailed for 15 years after being found guilty of child cruelty, at a sentencing hearing today,

Anthony Davis, leading Kelly Clarke, in mitigation, said Pickles’ behaviour was affected largely by Hadwin who was a “wholly manipulative controlling individual” who “targeted” Pickles.

At trial, Andrew Hadwin was represented by Andrew Walker leading Katie Spence.

The criminal team at Dere Street, headed by Anthony Davis, is one of the strongest on the North East Circuit. With a team of over 30 barristers, inlcuding 4 silks, they provide expertise across the entire field of criminal law throughout the region and beyond. If you wish to instruct any member of Dere Street’s Criminal team, contact information for their clerks can be found here.

Substantial media cover of the matter can be found here: Investigation and Trial; Andrew Hadwin’s death; Sentence