Two jailed for perverting the course of justice following death of Kerry Newman

Two people have been sentenced for perverting the course of justice in connection with an investigation into the death of a woman.

Robert Halliwell (08/01/1975), of Olney, Rochdale, and Melanie Bullen (28/03/1971), of Shirburn, Rochdale, were today each sentenced at Minshull Street Crown Court to two years in prison after earlier pleading guilty to perverting the course of justice. 

The conviction relates to the death of Kerry Newman, 40, whose body was found on land off New Barn Lane on Monday 17 July 2023. 

In the early hours of that day, the pair had moved Kerry’s body to the area, being spotted on CCTV doing so.

Kerry was subsequently found by a member of the public.

Kerry’s mother and stepfather described her as “a loving daughter and mother of two boys, taken away from us too soon.”

They added: “She is now in heaven with the angels, rest in peace our beautiful girl.”

Detective Inspector Emma Hulston, from Greater Manchester Police’s Major Incident Team, said: “To have left Kerry alone and without seeking medical attention for her was a heartless act.

“I am glad that both Bullen and Halliwell will now see the inside of a prison cell as punishment for their actions.

“A file is now being prepared for the coroner with regards to the death of Kerry. Our thoughts remain with her family.”