Trio jailed after fake pregnancy story used in attempt to reduce prison sentence

Three people have been sentenced after creating a false story that a pregnant woman was the partner of a convicted drug dealer in an unsuccessful attempt to secure a lighter court sentence.

Wiltshire Police said Andi Chittell-Gilholm, Gavin Quinn and David Hewitt conspired to mislead the court by pretending Chittell-Gilholm was Quinn’s partner and that she was carrying his child. The false claim was intended to influence the sentence handed to Quinn, who had been convicted of involvement in the supply of Class A drugs.

The court heard that Chittell-Gilholm had never met Quinn before the arrangement and was offered money by Hewitt to attend Swindon Crown Court and present herself as his partner. Police said the group hoped the story would convince the court that a longer prison sentence would have a greater impact on a pregnant partner and family.

The deception was uncovered during a police investigation, and all three later admitted conspiracy to pervert the course of justice at a hearing at Salisbury Crown Court.

Quinn, from Weston-super-Mare, was sentenced to 10 months in prison, while Hewitt, from Portishead, received an eight-month prison sentence. Chittell-Gilholm was given a four-month prison sentence suspended for two years.

Detective Constable Charlie Forster from Wiltshire Police said the case involved a deliberate attempt to present false information to the court in the hope of reducing Quinn’s punishment. He added that such actions are serious and must face consequences.

The case highlights the importance of honesty during criminal proceedings and the serious consequences of attempting to interfere with the justice system.