Simon Richardson Jailed for Life for Murder of Cyclist Michael Mullins

Driver Jailed for Life After Dragging Cyclist Michael Mullins to His Death in Trafford

You heard him moaning for many minutes and I am sure you knew you were dragging a man who you believed was conscious for four-and-a-half minutes, Mrs Justice Brenner KC told Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court during the sentencing of Simon Richardson.

Simon Richardson, 35, has been sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 25 years for the murder of Michael Mullins, who was cycling home from Stretford Grammar School in Trafford, Greater Manchester, on April 20, according to bbc.co.uk. Jurors heard that Richardson crashed into Mullins and subsequently stopped to try to dislodge the injured cyclist before continuing to drive with him lodged beneath the vehicle.

Appalling Driving Record Cited in Life Sentence and Driving Ban

In addition to the life sentence for murder, Mrs Justice Brenner KC handed Richardson a lifetime disqualification from driving. The judge stated that the lifetime ban is necessary to protect the public.

The court reviewed Richardson’s criminal history, noting what the judge described as an “appalling driving record.” That record includes previous convictions for drink driving and careless driving.

Addressing the duration of the incident, Brenner noted the physical awareness Richardson demonstrated during the crime. The judge told the court that Richardson heard the victim moaning and drove at speed while performing maneuvers designed to cause injury, carrying on despite knowing the state of the victim trapped beneath the car.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Trafford Murder Trial

What vehicle was involved in the Trafford collision?

The court proceedings at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court detailed that Simon Richardson was driving a car when he crashed into cyclist Michael Mullins.

Where was Michael Mullins traveling from when he was struck?

Michael Mullins was cycling home from Stretford Grammar School in Trafford, Greater Manchester, when the incident occurred on April 20.

What was Simon Richardson’s minimum prison term?

Mrs Justice Brenner KC ordered that Richardson must serve a minimum of 25 years behind bars before he becomes eligible for parole.

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