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prison terms.

“They denied their guilt throughout and the severity and brutality of their crime is reflected in their lengthy sentences.

“The juveniles were found guilty of manslaughter, meaning that while they did play a role in Mr Preston’s death, the jury did not believe that they intended to kill him.

“All now face time behind bars for their crime and a complex police investigation now draws to a close.

“I wish to thank my team for their hard work and commitment throughout this inquiry and the partner agencies we have worked alongside over the last 10 months.” A MAN accused of sexual assault missed court following his cancer diagnosis.

Lance Pearson denied the attack in the Newsome area on June 20 and had been due to stand trial.

However, Kirklees Magistrates’ Court was told yesterday that he has since been diagnosed with bladder cancer. His solicitor Carl Kingsley explained that the 52-year-old is awaiting an operation and his prognosis is poor.

He told District Judge Michael Fanning that Pearson is in a Cleckheaton care home and currently unfit to attend court.

Judge Fanning set a new trial date for August 23 and Pearson, formally of Towngate in Newsome, will be informed.