Sentences Reduced For Two Boys Who Violently Assaulted Worthing Father

The sentences of two boys convicted of a violent assault on a Worthing father in April 2021 have been reduced by the Court of Appeal.

George Tilley and Archie Tilley, who were aged 13 and 14 at the time, were convicted of grievous bodily harm with intent and handed 12-year sentences for the assault that left Alan Willson with life-changing injuries.

The sentence included a maximum of nine years to be served in custody, with an additional three years on extended licence due to the boys being classified as dangerous offenders.

Both Tilley brothers appealed their sentence and at the Royal Courts of Justice on Tuesday 17 January, it was agreed the previous sentences issued were “manifestly excessive” and did not give sufficient reduction for the boys’ young age and immaturity.

The sentences were reduced by two-and-a-half years, meaning both sentences are now nine-and-a-half years in total, to comprise six-and-a-half years in custody and three years on extended licence.

The judge acknowledged the assault was vicious and persistent, and caused Alan to suffer catastrophic injuries. He also acknowledged the complete absence of remorse from either offender. However, the court is bound by legal guidelines when sentencing children and young people, and it was deemed the previous sentence did not sit within these guidelines.

DCI Simon Dunn, Senior Investigating Officer in the case, said:

"This was a truly horrific assault on a man whose life will never be the same as a result.

"We were delighted to secure the conviction for Alan and his family last year, to know that those responsible for this devastating crime would be held accountable for their actions. Even with this reduction, their custodial sentence will still run until the end of 2028.

“We respect the decision made by the court today, and continue to support Alan and his family through this difficult time."