Rachel Smith
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Crime / Justice/ lover of cats / trying to raise decent humans / journalist @LiveLancs rachel.smith01@reachplc.com
Articles by Rachel Smith
'Despicable' killer begins life sentence for sadistic murder of student with everything to live for
The remorseless killer of teenage student Carla Georgescu is now beginning a life sentence for her murder. Nathan Owens will spend at least 35 years behind bars for the sadistic and sexually motivated murder of Carla, 19, at her halls of residence in Preston Owens tricked his way into the student accommodation at 4am on February 4, telling Carla her mother had left her purse behind when she had visited at the weekend.
Man who had sexual obsession with step-daughter jailed after killing her at university halls
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Stepfather sentenced to 35 years for murdering 'naive, lovely' student he was obsessed with
The man who murdered Preston student Carla Georgescu has been jailed for life. Nathan Owens, 34, must serve a minimum of 35 years before he is elligible for parole. He will have to prove he is no longer a danger and will remain on licence for the rest of his life. On February 4, 2026, Owens travelled from the family home in Hartlepool in the dead of night. He concocted a story that Carla's mother had left her purse behind when she visited Carla the weekend before.
The gifted student murdered by her obsessed and twisted stepfather
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The gifted student murdered by her obsessed and twisted stepfather
Just days before she was killed, Carla Georgescu sat across her murderer at ease and content. The student was all smiles as she enjoyed a birthday meal with her mother and stepfather at a restaurant in Preston. She had every reason to be happy too: a 20th birthday was on the horizon, a potential book deal was in the works, she was acing her exams at university, a girl's trip to Romania was in the works, and she had plans to meet with her online boyfriend on Valentine's Day.
Jury considers whether 'obsessed' stepfather murdered psychology student in her halls of residence in Preston
The jury has retired to consider their verdict in the trial of a man accused of murdering Lancashire student Carla Georgescu. Carla, 19, was found dead at her hall of residence in Preston on February 5 2026, what would have been her 20th birthday. The second year psychology student planned a trip to her home country, Romania, and was due to meet her best friend to travel together.
Video captures 'exchange' moments before driver mowed down homeless man in Accrington town centre
This is the moment a young driver was arrested on suspicion of murder after driving over and killing a homeless man in Accrington town centre. Today (Monday October 19), Muhammed Haarith, 23, has been jailed for life and ordered to serve a minimum of 16 years following the death of Matthew Weller on April 22 this year. In the weeks leading up to his death, Matthew had been taunted by Haarith and his friends in footage shared in a Snapchat group.
Meet the 'Rooney brothers' Wayne, Kit and Kai, looking for their Premier League homes
Meet Wayne, Kit and Kai, three brothers looking for their premier league homes. This tiny squad of pups share their names with the Rooneys and with their bouncy personalilties their new owners will need plenty of energy to keep up with them. These little boys are Collie x Staffy mixes and are looking for active families who can carry on their training. They are currently living at the RSPCA shelter in Southport where they are enjoying playing out in the outdoor exercise areas.
Funeral employee stole treasured ring from Catholic priest's finger as he lay in the mortuary
A funeral arranger stole a sentimental ring from the finger of a dead priest then sold it to a pawnbroker before it was melted down. The ring, worth between £3000 and £3500 was given to Fr Peter Crowther by his parents when he was ordained in 1971. The 18-carat priesthood was inscribed "TU ES SAC ERDOS IN AETERNUM - I AM A PRIEST FOR EVER” and his dying wish was to be buried with it, Magistrates heard.
Man jailed for killing his brother in 'stupid play fight' at Waterfoot club
A man who killed his brother in a fight at a social club has been jailed for four years. Brent Clayton was convicted of manslaughter after punching his brother Simon to the ground on November 2, 2024. The pair had been drinking together at Waterfoot Social Club when Brent, then 60, offered Simon, 58, a fight in the function room, shortly before midnight. Simon threw a punch towards Brent and Brent retaliated, launching two blows at his younger brother.
Yorkshire Wildlife Park: Video captures man's final question before tiger attack
Footage appears to show a man's final moments before he was fatally attacked by a tiger at Yorkshire Wildlife Park. The man reportedly 'scaled the fence' and entered the Land of the Tigers enclosure at 1.30pm on Saturday, before he was mauled by the animal. Emergency services rushed to the scene and zookeepers made desperate attempts to halt the attack, but the man was tragically pronounced dead. Police have confirmed that his family has been notified.
Plans for women's wellness clinic given the go-ahead in Preston
A new private health facility in the Preston suburbs – specialising in the menopause and women's “wellness” services – has been given the go-ahead. Preston City Council planning officers have approved a bid to convert part of an existing residential property , on Sandy Lane in Cottam, in order to house the venture. A single room within the dwelling – known as Maxy House – will be used as a consultation room and office, while a seating area will be provided within the hallway.
Monkey torture ringleader jailed as judge slams animal cruelty sentences as 'too low'
A judge has urged the Government to bring in stricter penalties for animal cruelty offences as he imprisoned the ringleader of an international monkey torture network. Judge Christopher Grout handed Bartosz Poklek a three-year and three-month prison term on Friday for distributing footage depicting the torture and killing of monkeys.
Strictly's Katya Jones breaks silence with heartfelt family statement before live show
A Strictly Come Dancing professional has shared a heartfelt message with fans ahead of tonight's performance. Katya Jones, 37, took to Instagram on Saturday (October 10) with an emotional post that has resonated deeply with her followers. The professional dancer, currently partnered with John Nellis in this year's competition, opened up candidly about her feelings, prompting an outpouring of supportive messages from fans as she prepares for this evening's show.
Meet Les, Woody, Daisy and Enzo - the rescue dogs looking for love
These furry are friends are looking for love. Each has had a difficult start in life and has been rescued by the RSPCA. Now they are looking for a second chance and hope to soon find a sofa they can snuggle on. RSPCA Lancashire has dogs in shelters in Preston Poulton-le-Fylde Accrington and Southport . Each has been assessed and is now ready to move on to their forever home. The dogs range in size, age and energy levels, from Enzo, a one-year-old Daschund to eight-year-old German Shepherd Woody.
They flogged drugs in St Annes but aren't 'the sort of people who need to go to jail'
A drug dealer and his partner - who turned a blind eye to the operation - have been spared jail after police discovered more than £3,000 of cocaine at their home in St Annes. Brian Wright, 42, was wanted by police as they suspected he was involved in the supply of drugs, Preston Crown Court heard. On February 28, 2025, Wright was stopped in a car on Birkdale Avenue. Officers seized his iPhone and went to search the home where he lived with Lauren Brown, 28, in St Albans Road.
Caught on camera: The perverts snared by online paedophile hunters
Each of these men thought they were talking to a child - and each of them was wrong. These are the men who have been caught out by online paedophile hunters after sharing explicit chat and photos with a decoy. Some were confronted on their doorsteps and others live streamed on social media.
Five fun things to do with the kids this weekend
Lancashire is set for a dry weekend with the sun coming through on Saturday. And there are plenty of fun indoor and outdoor activities to keep the kids entertained this weekend. Special events include a steam ride with children's favourite Thomas the Tank Engine. K-pop fans and their grown-ups can bop their hearts out at Lowther Pavilion or for those looking for a day in nature, Goosefest promises a fun day out at Martin Mere WWT.
Woman accused of sleeping with boy says allegations are '100 per cent false'
A woman who has been accused of kissing teenage boy before having sex with him says the allegations are '100 per cent false'. Kirsty Slater is currently on trial after she was charged on three counts of sexual activity with the boy. The 38-year-old denies the charges. On Thursday (October 1), a jury at Preston Crown Court was shown video of a police interview with the alleged victim.
Teen used 'clever' Nectar card scam to score Lego sets and a Henry hoover from Sainsbury's
A teenager who travelled from Scotland to Lancashire to commit Nectar card fraud was told to put his talents to better use when he appeared at Preston Crown Court Dominik Moore was 17 when he scammed dozens of Lego sets, a Henry hoover, and a water dispenser from Sainsbury's . But his fraud was discovered and he was arrested on suspicion of fraud.
Man guilty of killing his brother with a single punch outside social club
A man has been convicted of manslaughter after killing his brother with a single punch at a social club in Waterfoot. Brent Clayton, then 60, had been drinking with his brother Simon, 58, when they went to the Waterfoot Social Club on November 23, 2024. By 11:30pm both men had consumed a lot of alcohol and Simon was unsteady on his feet. He was captured on CCTV stumbling into a table as he made his way back from the toilets towards the bar, where Brent was ordering another drink.
Jury considers verdict in trial of man accused of killing his brother
The jury has retired to consider the verdict in the trial of a 62-year-old man accused of killing his brother when a 'play fight' got out of hand. Brent Clayton, of Taylor Avenue, Waterfoot, denies manslaughter after his brother Simon died after a fight between the pair at Waterfoot Social Club on November 23, 2024. Simon, 58, fell to the ground and remained motionless as club staff and emergency services rushed to his aid.
Burnley dealer caught with stash in his undies told cops - 'It's in the bedroom'
A drug dealer who was stopped outside Marks and Spencer in Burnley told police 'they're in the bedroom, my family will be in.' Aaron Mohammed, 32, made the frank admission to police to 'stop them ripping the house up', when he was arrested on June 6, 2026. Preston Crown Court heard how Mohammed had previous convictions for drug offences and was seen by officers in the St James' Street area. He was arrested and taken to custody for a strip search as he had previously hidden drugs in his underwear.
Pensioner 'died a pauper' after being rinsed by callous granddaughter
A grandmother 'died a pauper' after her finances were plundered by her callous granddaughter, who had been trusted to look after her affairs. Dannielle Ramsbotham, 34, was appointed deputy to her grandma's estate when the pensioner developed dementia and moved into a nursing home in Bamber Bridge . But instead of taking care of her grandma's assets she 'rinsed' her - taking more than £30,000 from the proceeds of the sale of her home.
Swipe right - Nine men every Lancashire woman should know about including a doctor, a teacher and a massage therapist
There's nothing wrong with a little online dating - it's how many people meet. But how much can we really know about a person from a photo and a short bio? These men have all committed crimes against women or girls. Some - including a doctor, a teacher and a massage therapist, used their trusted professional positions to abuse vulnerable victims. Each was eventually brought to justice for their offences but their victims are left dealing with the impact of the what these men did to them.
Pervert forced to get out his belly and do star jumps on camera in humiliating confrontation with paedo hunters
A pervert who tried to engage what he thought was a young girl in sordid sexual conversations was subjected to 'humiliating rough justice' when he was confronted by a gang of paedophile hunters. Daniel Heyes, 42, was forced to lift his jumper up and show his belly on camera before being made to do star jumps by the mob. Members of the group slapped his midriff and called him names as they waited for the police to arrive.
Coronation Street star Julie Hesmondhalgh makes surprise visit to Accrington restaurant
An Indian restaurant in Lancashire gave a warm welcome to a special guest this week when actor Julie Hesmondhalgh called in. Julie, who was born and raised in Accrington, is best known for playing Hayley Cropper on Coronation Street and has starred in TV shows including Broadchurch and Mr Bates v The Post Office.
Two Lancaster Royal Infirmary wards to close amid plans for more care in the community
Two wards at the Royal Lancaster Infirmary are set to close permanently as part of a plan to provide more care in the community. The 48 beds that make up the Castle View unit will be shut in phases – but only once hospital bosses have deemed it "safe" to do so. That means none of the facilities will be taken out of use until alternative out-of-hospital services – and the system for discharging patients into them – have the capacity to cope, NHS leaders have insisted.
Morecambe pervert who shared sick videos with predators caught out by decoy 'Maddie'
A sick sexual predator who shared child abuse images to a group of social media paedophiles was caught out by a decoy posing as a 13-year-old girl. Lewis Cook, 26, began chatting to 'Maddie' on an online chat platform for over 18s, claiming he was 19 years old. When 'Maddie', a decoy working for paedophile hunters 'Saving Children's Futures' stated she was only 13, Cook suggested they move the conversation to WhatsApp. Almost immediately the chat became sexual, Preston Crown Court heard.
Blackpool pub allowed to keep licence after violence following World Cup match
A Blackpool pub has avoided losing its premises licence after a person was stabbed in the summer. Bosses at the Boar's Head accepted tough new conditions in response to the violence which erupted after midnight on July 16, following a live screening of the tense World Cup match between England and Argentina a little earlier in the night. The stab victim was taken to hospital where his condition was described at the time as being serious, but not life-threatening and an arrest was made.
Leader calls for action over cancer-causing chemicals in Wyre district
Wyre Council leader Michael Vincent has called on the Government to make an urgent intervention over historic contamination in parts of Thornton by cancer-causing chemical PFOA. Cllr Vincent say the issue is too big to leave to local councils and even the Environment Agency and is a national issue rather than just a local one.
Coleen Nolan opens up about 'losing family relationships' in heartbreaking rift
Loose Women panelist Coleen Nolan said some family members have 'never spoken to her again' after a sad rift following her parents' death. Coleen returned to screens on Wednesday (September 23) alongside Kaye Adams, Janet Street Porter and Jane Moore. While discussing the controversial memoir of Earl Spencer, which have been headline news this week, the beloved presenter said: "I think that's the thing when you're writing your memoir.
Bad news for Towneley Park padel plans as budget starts to bite
Plans for a £436,000 padel court complex in Burnley's Towneley Park have been kaiboshed just six months after they were announced. Burnley Council's plan to bring the racket game to Towneley Park was first pitched as the authority meeting 'significant unmet demand' for the 'UK's fastest growing sport', with padel courts springing up all over East Lancashire in recent years.
'Taking part in the cancer garden project has helped my recovery - now I hope it will help others'
A group of recovering cancer patients on the Fylde coast have succeeded in creating a peaceful remembrance garden which offers a haven for those who have experienced the illness. The team behind the KCA Community Pond and Support Garden in Bispham wanted to offer a retreat where people could also meet others who have been through similar experiences. Now they've made it a success and are reaching out to other groups who can make use of it.
Fleetwood Police and ex-Marine team up to help steer youngsters away from crime
A group of youngsters took part in a Commando Intervention Scheme to reduce the risk of anti-social behaviour, offending and in some cases school exclusion. Fleetwood Police partnered with former Royal Marine commando, David Fairbrother, to host five individual sessions over the summer holidays to the same group of young people aged 10-13yrs. The Commando Intervention Scheme is an initiative run by Commando Experiences and Commando Rugby School Ltd.
New lease of life for Preston store with tenant expected 'by Christmas'
An empty building in one of Preston's most prominent locations is set for a new lease of life. The former Wilko store on Friargate has stood empty for almost three years since the homeware company went into administration in October 2023. Now a Nottingham-based developer has acquired the empty store building with plans to underpin the area's continued transformation.
Man in hospital following reported stabbing in Darwen
A man is in hospital after reports of a stabbing in Darwen town centre. In the early hours of this morning (Sunday, September 20) officers on patrol in Darwen town centre were made aware of an assault on Church Street where a man had been stabbed. The officers gave the victim, a man in his 20s, first aid and he was taken to hospital by ambulance. He is in a stable condition. An investigation is underway and enquiries are ongoing.
Tragedy as woman dies after she's found collapsed on road in Nelson
A woman in her 50s has died after being found collapsed on a road in Nelson Emergency services closed Lomeshaye Road while they carried out investigations, however the road has since reopened. A police spokesperson said the woman was found at around 7:30am. Sadly, when emergency services arrived, she was pronounced dead. A spokesperson said: "We were called at about 7.30am today (Sunday, September 20 th ) to a report that a woman had been found collapsed on Lomeshaye Road in Nelson.
Road in Nelson shut as police issue 'avoid area' warning
Motorists are being advised to avoid Lomeshaye Road in Nelson following an incident. The road has been closed near the junction with Hibson Road to allow emergency services to deal with the situation. Nelson , Brierfield and Barrowford police are asking people to avoid the area. A spokesperson said: "If you can avoid the area if at all possible while we go about our work we would be grateful.
Stolen BMW chased by police - now two teens have been charged
Two teenagers have been charged after a stolen BMW was abandoned after a high risk police chase near Kirkham Last month Fylde Rural Task Force were involved in the pursuit after the car was stolen from Kirkham town centre. The car was recovered and returned to its owner. Officers conducted CCTV enquiries and identified the driver, and with the help of Lancs Police Specialist Ops he was swiftly located and arrested.
Family of much loved dad who died from heart condition say 'he didn't get the help he needed quick enough'
The family of a man who died after developing a severe heart condition say he did not receive the treatment he needed in time. Jimmy Whiteside, 61, was diagnosed with severe aortic stenosis in September 2025, and doctors warned that without a valve replacement, his outlook was not good. His daughter Lisa said Jimmy underwent tests including ECGs, blood tests, an MRI, an angiogram and an ultrasound, but no date was ever set for the vital operation he needed.
Lytham St Annes' much loved seaside paddling pool set to reopen for future generations to enjoy
The much loved paddling pool in Lytham St Annes will be back open for future generations to enjoy after essential repairs have been carried out Fylde Council has approved funding to restore the historic attraction in Promenade Gardens after it was closed this summer due to structural issues.
Family of much loved dad who died from heart condition say 'he didn't get the help he needed quick enough'
The family of a man who died after developing a severe heart condition say he did not receive the treatment he needed in time. Jimmy Whiteside, 61, was diagnosed with severe aortic stenosis in September 2025, and doctors warned that without a valve replacement, his outlook was not good. His daughter Lisa said Jimmy underwent tests including ECGs, blood tests, an MRI, an angiogram and an ultrasound, but no date was ever set for the vital operation he needed.
Appeal to find missing teenager last seen in Kirkham
A teenager who is missing from her home in Greater Manchester was last seen three days ago in Kirkham. GMP are asking for help in locating Lexi, 15, so they can check she is safe and well. Lexi was last seen at 12pm on Wednesday 16 September at Bryning Farm Lane, Kirkham. She has links to Wigan.
Stolen BMW chased by police - now two teens have been charged
Two teenagers have been charged after a stolen BMW was abandoned after a high risk police chase near Kirkham. Last month Fylde Rural Task Force were involved in the pursuit after the car was stolen from Kirkham town centre. The car was recovered and returned to its owner. Officers conducted CCTV enquiries and identified the driver, and with the help of Lancs Police Specialist Ops he was swiftly located and arrested.
Shoplifter apologises to businesses but says harsher penalties would not have curbed her habit
A prolific shoplifter who stole to fund her addiction has apologised to shop owners after five weeks free of drugs. Jade Smith, 35, said harsher punishments would not have stopped her stealing - even when she became homeless and had to live in a tent. The driving force behind her habit was her addiction to drugs, which she is now facing head on after a stay in rehab in Preston. Jade said she often resorted to stealing after she spent all of her money on cocaine when she was addicted to drugs.
Concern over woman missing from Blackburn
Police are growing increasingly concerned about a woman who has not been seen for more than two weeks. Jill Cunliffe, 44, was last seen in Blackburn town centre at 11am on September 3. She was reported missing on Wednesday (September 16). Jill is white, five ft six ins, slim, with short brown hair. She was last seen wearing a white and blue jumper and blue jeans.
Bambi, Bella, Monty and Enzo - the Lancashire rescue dogs looking for love
These adorable rescue dogs are looking for love. Each has their own unique character and is looking for a special kind of person to take them home. From three month old pup Bambi, who needs an experienced owner to keep her busy brain active to beautiful Bella Bear who cherishes her independence, these dogs will suit a variety of homes. They are just some of the dozens of dogs in Lancashire's RSPCA kennels this week.
The banned teachers who won't be returning to class this week
As Lancashire children return to the classroom these eight teachers will not be setting foot within any school. Each has been banned from their profession after the Teaching Regulation Agency found their conduct fell so far below professional standards they were no longer suitable to teach. From cheating exam results to abhorrent sex offences, each failed in their professional duty to uphold the highest standards expected of them by parents, pupils and governors.
From murder to drug dealing - these criminals all used Snapchat to carry out their crimes
These criminals all used Snapchat as they carried out their crimes. From murder, to drug dealing and sexual offences, each used the social media platform as part of their offending. Some - like Joanne Maxwell and her kids Liam Donlin and Amie Clegg - used the platform to record footage which later served as evidence against them. Others used the channel and its disappearing messages to contact vulnerable children to offend against them.
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