Calls for hefty prison sentences for gang members after shooting of 12-year-old boy

Stephen Dunford, aged 26, of Fellbrigg Road, Arbourthorne, was found guilty this week of attempted murder and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life after he opened fire at a group of children in a drive-by shooting on Northern Avenue, Arbourthorne, in January.

He was also found guilty of possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life after another shooting on Northcote Avenue, Heeley, two days earlier.

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Brandon Bailey, 26, of Manor Park Way, Manor Park, Sheffield, was found guilty of conspiracy to possess a firearm with intent to endanger life after his DNA was found on a firearm seized by officers as part of a wider investigation into the Arbourthorne gun attack.

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South Yorkshire Police said the shooting sent ‘shockwaves’ through the Arbourthorne community, with one child was injured and another said to have had ‘a miraculous escape’ after one of the bullets struck the hood of his jacket, narrowly missing his neck and head.

Dunford and Bailey are remanded in custody and due to be sentenced on October 2.

Sheffield residents have spoken out after the trial and their hopes for lengthy sentences for the two gang members.

Sean Dungworth said: “Neither of these excuses should breathe the air of freedom for a very, very long time.

“They may think they are big hard men; well, big hard men accept the consequences of their actions.

“Not an ounce of remorse, not an ounce of responsibility, not an ounce of humanity. Let's hope they are old men before they ever walk the streets again.”

Joanne Knightson added: “It's time justice was a life for a life, too many idiots out there because they know they can get away with it.”

And Janet Howell said: “Hope they get a lengthy sentence.”

Posting on Facebook, Kashif Zahoor said: “What’s the world come to? These wannabe gangsters in all societies should be locked up for life. Period.”

And Helen Miller added: “Let's hope the sentence is a substantially long one.”

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