Kirkham jailed for Llanidloes manslaughter

 

Kirkham, 20, pleaded guilty at Caernarvon Crown Court after the initial charge of murder was reduced by the Crown Prosecution Service. He was given a three-year sentence for the manslaughter and six months for supplying ecstacy.

 

“We welcome today’s sentence and our sympathies go out to the family of Lewis (below) at this time,” said Detective Chief Inspector Shane Williams, who led the inquiry. “They have shown remarkable dignity and resilience throughout this ordeal, and have found the strength to help us with our inquiries. For that I thank them.

 

“And I’d also like to thank the people of Llanidloes for showing us their support throughout this investigation.“

 

A statement released by Lewis’s family read:

 

“We are here today because of a moment of stupidity, where someone did not stop to think about the consequence of their actions.

 

“It is not an exaggeration to say that our lives have been devastated by the needless loss of Lewis’s life. He was a gifted young man, a wonderful son, devoted brother to Josie and also a great friend to many. We miss him every day and at times our grief is overwhelming. We will never get over his loss.

 

“We would like to thank everyone for their continued support and in particular the Police for their professionalism and support throughout the investigation.”