Six individuals responsible for the murder of 40-year-old Joanne Penney, who was shot at point blank range on a doorstep, were sentenced at Cardiff Crown Court on Monday. The killing occurred amid a clash between rival organised crime groups over drug dealing, the court heard.
Details of the Murder
Joanne Penney died after a bullet penetrated her heart and left lung, lodging in the rear of her chest. She was pronounced dead at a property in Llys Illtyd, Talbot Green, at around 6:10 pm on March 9 last year. Marcus Huntley, 21, pleaded guilty to murdering Ms Penney and being the person who pulled the trigger.
Jordan Mills-Smith, 34; Joshua Gordon, 28; Kristina Ginova, 22; and Melissa Quailey-Dashper, 40, were found guilty of Joanne Penney's murder. Convicted murderer Renaldo Baptiste, 39, was also found guilty of murder, having arranged the killing from his prison cell.
Mother's Impact Statement
At the sentencing hearing, the court heard a statement from Joanne's mother, Sharon Penney, read out on her behalf. The statement detailed the immense impact her daughter's death has had on her and her family's lives. Sharon said she has nightmares about what happened to Joanne and wakes up "screaming and crying." She also described flashbacks of the day police officers arrived at her home to deliver "the worst news a mother could receive."
Sentencing and Background
The six defendants are being sentenced for their roles in the murder, which was part of a violent dispute between organised crime groups. The court continues to hear evidence and victim impact statements before passing sentences.
