THREE WOMEN WHO pleaded guilty for witholding information and other offences in connection with the death of showjumper Katie Simpson have been handed suspended sentences.

Hayley Robb (30), Jill Robinson (42) and Rose de Montmorency-Wright (23) appeared before Derry Crown Court this morning charged with a number of offences surrounding the death of Simpson.

Simpson died in hospital at the age of 21 after an incident in Gortnessy Meadows, Lettershandoney, on 3 August 2020.

Horse trainer Jonathan Creswell (36) had been charged with her rape and murder. However, he was found dead April of this year, shortly after his trial had commenced.

It was contended by the prosecution that Creswell had attacked Katie Simpson, who was the younger sister of his partner, in an act of “jealous rage” and then staged a scene to make it appear she had attempted to take her own life.

The three women – all connected to Creswell through the equestrian industry – initially denied charges relating to various actions following Simpson’s death, but all later changed their plea.

The first to switch position was Hayley Robb, from Weavers Meadow, Banbridge who changed her plea in December.

She admitted withholding information between 2 August 2020 and 26 June 2021, while knowing Katie had sustained injuries. Robb further admitted two counts of perverting the course of justice by washing Creswell’s clothes and by cleaning blood in his home.

She was sentenced today to two years in prison, but the sentence was suspended for two years, meaning she will not serve jail time.

Jill Robinson (42) from Blackfort Road, Omagh admitted perverting the course of justice in January.

She admitted she had washed Creswell’s clothes and was sentenced to 16 months in prison, suspended for two years.

Rose de Montmorency-Wright (22) of Craigantlet Road, Newtownards admitted withholding information between 9 October 2020 and 13 October 2021, while she knew of Creswell’s assault on Katie.

She was was sentenced today to eight months in prison, suspended for two years.

Commenting after the sentencing, PSNI Detective Chief Inspector Mark Gibson said:

“Katie Simpson lost her life at the age of just 21, leaving family members and many close friends bereft. She was at the heart of a family who simply adored her.”

“The trial for Katie’s alleged rape and murder got underway on 23 April but quickly ended when the defendant Jonathan Creswell was found dead the following morning.

“Katie’s loved ones have experienced a loss beyond words. Theirs is a sorrow deepened and prolonged by a lack of closure.

While three co-defendants have today been held to account for their individual actions in connection with Katie’s death, I’m aware that a family’s nightmare goes on. My thoughts, along with those of my team, are with Katie’s family and friends who remain heartbroken.

 With reporting from Tanya Fowles