FACE OF OLIVIA MURDER ACCUSED
THIS is the man accused of shooting dead nine-year-old schoolgirl Olivia Pratt-Korbel.
The youngster’s parents came faceto-face with Thomas Cashman (34) as he yesterday appeared in Liverpool Magistrates Court for the first time charged with her murder.
Olivia died after being shot in the chest when a gunman chased convicted burglar Joseph Nee into her home in Dovecot, Liverpool, on August 22 last.
Cashman is also charged with the attempted murders of the youngster’s mum Cheryl (46) and Nee (35) who were both wounded in the incident.
The suspect also faces two charges of possessing firearms – a Glock handgun and .38 calibre revolver – with intent to endanger life.
His case was immediately sent to Liverpool Crown Court where he appeared yesterday afternoon.
A provisional trial date was set for March 6 next year with a plea and preparation hearing due to take place on January 10. Cashman, whose home in West Derby, Merseyside, Englad is less than two miles from Olivia’s, was remanded in custody after making no application for bail.
The youngster’s mum, who was shot in the wrist, and dad John were in the public gallery along with other family members and police.
Hearing
David McLachlan KC, prosecuting, said the trial was expected to last four weeks.
Judge Neil Flewitt KC said Cashman will appear at the next hearing via videolink.
Police motorcycle outriders flanked a van carrying him to and from his court appearances in a major security operation.
Paul Russell (40) also from West Derby, appeared at Liverpool Magistrates Court charged with assisting an offender