Merseyside's Police Commissioner Responds to Life Sentence for Olivia Pratt-Korbel's Killer

Merseyside's Police Commissioner has released the following statement following the news that Thomas Cashman has been sentenced to a life sentence with a minimum of 42 years behind bars for the murder of nine-year-old Olivia Pratt-Korbel today.

Emily Spurrell said: "First and foremost, my heartfelt sympathies go to Olivia's family during this unbearably difficult time.

"For Olivia’s loved ones there is no justice which will bring back their beautiful, chatty little girl or fill the void her loss will leave, but I am thankful they know he is off the streets of Merseyside and facing a life behind bars.

"Cashman has not shown an ounce of remorse and was so cowardly he refused to even appear to face his sentence, but I hope he wakes up every day for the next 42 years behind bars reflecting on the devastation he has caused.

"My thanks go to the people of Dovecot whose bravery and intelligence helped to secure his life sentence and to the officers and staff of Merseyside Police and the CPS who worked tirelessly to ensure he was made to pay for this heinous crimes.

"Today’s sentence shows that when people do the right thing and speak out, justice will be done.

"Olivia’s tragic and senseless murder devastated our city, but the response from our communities was very clear; there is no place for firearms in our region.

"Merseyside Police is relentless in its commitment to disrupt gangs, pursue and arrest those intent on violence and harm and work with partners to make all our communities safer.  Your support is vital in this work. By coming forward with the information you have, you can play a vital role in protecting the lives of innocent people and preventing further tragedies.

"I would urge anyone with information about guns or gangs to please report it to Merseyside Police or provide information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."