Alan Gingles Jailed For Death Of His Grandmother

Detectives from the PSNI's Major Investigation Team have welcomed the sentence handed down to Alan Gingles for the manslaughter of Elizabeth Dobbin.

Gingles, aged 34, appeared before Antrim Crown Court on Tuesday 15 March, where he was handed an indeterminate life sentence, to serve a minimum of five years in custody, having pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of Elizabeth Dobbin on the basis of diminished responsibility.

Elizabeth Dobbin died on the evening of Monday 30 March 2020. She had been attacked by her grandson, Alan Gingles, in her home.

Detective Inspector Millar said: "Mrs Dobbin, who was aged 82, was attacked by her grandson Alan Gingles in her own home, and was pronounced dead by paramedics on their arrival. Mrs Dobbin had provided a home to Alan Gingles, and it's here that he was residing at the time of the attack.

"The attack, which was without motive, has taken a woman's life, leaving a family and loved ones bereft.

"There are, unfortunately, no words that can help to ease their heartbreak or undo this tragic event.

"I hope, however, that the guilty finding together with today's sentencing helps to provide some degree of comfort."