Publication date:
Five men have been sentenced today at Belfast Crown Court for the murder of Ian Ogle more than six years ago. Mr Ogle (45) died after he was beaten and stabbed 11 times on 27 January 2019, close to his home at Cluan Place in east Belfast. All five men had received life sentences and their minim tariffs were set today.
Glenn Rainey, 38, Walter Ervine, 43, and Robert Spiers, 42, who were found guilty of murder after a non jury trial, were each sentenced to a minimum of 20 years imprisonment.
Mark Sewell, 46, who has previously pleaded guilty to murder, was sentenced to a minimum of 17-and-a-half years imprisonment.
Jonathan Brown, 39, who has previously pleaded guilty to murder, was sentenced to a minimum of 17-and-a-half years imprisonment.
Three other people who admitted assisting those involved in the murder, and one man who pleaded guilty to withholding information, were given suspended sentences.
PPS Assistant Director Martin Hardy said:
“Ian Ogle was viciously beaten and stabbed in an orchestrated attack, which happened just metres from his home in east Belfast. This brutal murder caused enduring pain and distress for Ian Ogle’s loved ones, including his children and partner, and shock amongst the wider community.
“The PPS worked closely with the Police Service of Northern Ireland who carried out a thorough investigation. Drawing together the various strands of evidence, which included phone data, forensic evidence and CCTV, we prosecuted the case at its height, presenting a strong case in court against those who carried out the attack and those who assisted them. Today the individuals responsible have been held accountable for their part in Mr Ogle’s murder.
“This was a complex case with multiple defendants and we recognise that the length of time it took to progress through court was understandably frustrating for Mr Ogle’s loved ones. The prosecution team including independent Counsel worked to minimise delay as much as we could, and we engaged with the family to keep them updated as the case continued. I want to thank Mr Ogle’s family for their great fortitude throughout the process. I hope that the conclusion of these proceedings is of some comfort to them as they attempt to continue without a much-loved partner and father.”
Notes to editors:
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