Thomas Iveson was jailed for 13 years after being found guilty of the manslaughter of Craig Richardson
A heartbroken family have paid tribute to their “fun” and “loving” son who was tragically killed in his own home. Thomas Iveson has been sentenced to 13 years for the manslaughter of Craig Richardson.
Iveson, 30, from Llyndir Lane in Burton, Rossett, had a history of excessive violence and a string of convictions for assaults, Mold Crown Court heard. He had denied murdering the 37 year old at his home in the Plas Madoc area of Acrefair on February 23.
In the early hours of that day, Iveson accompanied Mr Richardson to his flat. Later that morning, just before 12.30pm, he was discovered dead by friends, having sustained multiple catastrophic and fatal injuries. Read the biggest stories in Wales first by signing up to our daily newsletter here.
Iveson was arrested that same day on suspicion of murder and claimed he had acted in self-defence after Mr Richardson had attacked him. A Home Office pathologist who conducted a post mortem examination concluded that the victim died from choking on his blood.
Following today’s sentencing, Mr Richardson’s family stated: “Craig (Richy) as he was well known was a very much-loved son, dad, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin and friend to many”, reports North Wales Live.
“We would like him to be remembered as the fun, loving lad he was, with a wicked sense of humour. As a family, we welcome today’s sentence and can now finally grieve for our son who was taken from us all in such a violent and senseless way.
“Life for us and many others will never be the same as Craig touched so many people. At this time, we would like to extend our sincere thanks to family, friends and work colleagues for their love and continued support – and to North Wales Police, who worked tirelessly on this case, along with the courts and legal team.
“Finally, our two liaison officers who have been there for us every step of the way, they really are special people.”
Detective Inspector Rob Mahoney, Senior Investigating Officer, said today: “This is a tragic case in which Iveson’s violence caused serious injuries to Craig with the most devastating and irreversible of consequences.
“While no sentence will change the outcome for Craig’s family, I hope the conclusion of this investigation and subsequent court process will help to bring some closure, knowing Iveson has been jailed. Our thoughts and condolences remain with Craig’s family today as they continue to grieve their loss.
“I would also like to thank my investigation team and colleagues who worked incredibly hard to ensure justice was brought for Craig’s family.”
In court, Mr Richardson’s father, Brian, revealed the devastating impact their son’s death has had on the entire family.
Mr Richardson senior said: “On February 23, 2025 we were left heartbroken and totally broken. Our lives will never be the same again.
“We have an unbearable longing for Craig to walk back into the house, with his grin and daft jokes.”
Mr Richardson Senior recounted the heart-wrenching moment he and his wife visited their son in the mortuary at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd on February 26. He expressed: “No parent should have to do this.
“I wouldn’t wish this on my worst enemy.”
The incident, he said, “will stay with us for the rest of our lives,”.
“We held Craig and kissed him and promised him no-one would ever hurt him again.”
However, he felt “that promise was broken throughout the trial. It felt like he meant nothing.”
Mr Richardson Senior lamented that their son will never witness his own child grow up, expressing concern about how his death will impact the nine year old lad.
Craig and his son had a special phrase they used to say to each other: “Love you to infinity”. Mr Richardson Senior also mentioned the “unbelievable” turnout at Craig’s funeral, which included even his junior high school teacher.
Mr Richardson Senior expressed hope that one day they could remember “kissing him on the day he was born”, rather than the tragic memory of their last encounter in the mortuary.
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