TWO MEN CHARGED IN CONNECTION WITH THE MURDER OF OLIVIA PRATT-KORBEL

Following an extensive and complex investigation, Merseyside Police and the Crown Prosecution Service can confirm that two men have been charged following the murder of nine-year-old Olivia Pratt-Korbel on 22 August 2022.

Thomas Cashman, 34, from Grenadier Drive, West Derby, has been charged with the murder of Olivia; two counts of attempted murder; and two counts of possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life.

A second man, Paul Russell, 40 years, from Snowberry Road, West Derby, has been charged with assisting an offender.

Both men will appear at Liverpool Magistrates Court on Monday, 3 October 2022.

Detective Chief Superintendent Mark Kameen, said:

“Our work continues in earnest. At the beginning of the investigation we were firm in our commitment to finding all of those involved in this case, which includes the people who have tried to shield and protect individuals, and those who have supplied the weapon or are hiding the weapons used in this incident. 

“We have had an overwhelming response and support from the public since the tragic murder of Olivia and I would ask for your continued support so we can keep the promise we made to Olivia’s family and the local community to ensure that those involved face justice.

“Anyone with information is asked to DM @MerPolCC or contact @CrimestoppersUK on 0800 555 111.

“If you have any CCTV/dashcam/smart doorbell footage that could help our inquiries they can be downloaded on the dedicated public portal for Olivia’s murder, which will go straight through to the investigation team. Footage can be submitted here Public Portal (mipp.police.uk).

“Finally, our thoughts today are with Olivia’s Mum and Dad, Cheryl and John Francis, and their families, who throughout the last few weeks have shown incredible strength, courage, and dignity.”