Five sentenced in connection with Joanne Penney murder investigation

Five people have been jailed after being linked to the investigation into a murder in Talbot Green.

The court heard how, on March 9, 2025, at 6.10pm, Police were called to an address at Llys Illtyd, Talbot Green, where a woman – 40-year-old Joanne Penney – was seriously injured having been shot to the chest. Despite the best efforts of emergency services, she died at the scene.

Extensive investigation by South Wales Police’s Major Crime team identified a total of 12 people who have been convicted in connection, the final five of them who were convicted of various offences were sentenced today (July 6).

Molly Cooper, 34, of Leicester, was convicted of participating in the criminal activities of an organised crime group after pleading guilty. She was also found guilty of acquire ammunition for a firearm without a certificate. She was sentenced to 30 months in prison.

Sai Manne, 26, of Cardiff, was convicted of participating in the criminal activities of an organised crime group after pleading guilty and was sentenced to 27 months in prison.

Donna James, 51, from Llanishen, was convicted after being found guilty of assisting an offender and was sentenced to 24 months in prison, suspended for two years. 

Laura John, 23, from Rhiwbina was convicted after being found guilty of assisting an offender and was sentenced to 20 months in prison, suspended for two years. 

Callum Kelleher, 37, of Liverpool, was convicted of participating in the criminal activities of an organised crime group after pleading guilty and was sentenced to 16 months in prison, suspended for 18 months.

This sentencing follows on from last month where six people were sentenced for Joanne Penney's murder.

Detective Chief Inspector Lianne Rees said:

"Our thoughts remain firmly with Joanne’s family, who have shown immense strength and dignity in the face of unimaginable loss. Joanne’s life was taken in a ruthless act of violence, and nothing can undo the pain her loved ones continue to feel.

"This case lays bare the devastating consequences of organised crime. Those responsible showed a complete disregard for human life and for the safety of our communities. Let this sentence serve as a stark warning — if you bring violence, drugs and firearms into South Wales, we will relentlessly pursue you, dismantle your networks, and ensure you face the full consequences of your actions.

"I want to thank the officers and staff involved in this investigation, alongside colleagues from the Crown Prosecution Service and prosecution counsel. Their professionalism, determination, and focus have been critical in securing justice for Joanne and her family.

"We are committed to working tirelessly to protect our communities and to holding those responsible for serious violence fully to account.”

Marcus Huntley, 21, from St Mellons, Cardiff, pleaded guilty to murder and participating in the activities of an organised group and was sentenced to life with a minimum of 30 years and 146 days, and two years five months to be served concurrently.

Renaldo Baptiste, 39 from London, was sentenced to life with a minimum of 42 years for murder after being found guilty. He had also previously pleaded guilty to participating in the criminal activities of an organised crime group; for this he was sentenced to two years ten months to be served concurrently.

Jordan Mills-Smith, 33, from Cardiff was sentenced to life with a minimum of 27 years for murder after being found guilty. He had also previously pleaded guilty to participating in the criminal activities of an organised crime group; for this he was sentenced to two years and three months to be served concurrently.

Joshua Gordon, 27, from Leicestershire, was sentenced to life with a minimum of 32 years for murder and three years 10 months to be served concurrently for participating in the criminal activities of an organised crime group after being found guilty.

Kistina Ginova, 23 from Leicestershire, was sentenced to life with a minimum of 12 years for murder and 10 months to be served concurrently for participating in the criminal activities of an organised crime group after being found guilty.

Melissa Quailey-Dashper, 40, from Leicester, was sentenced to life with a minimum of 14 years for murder and 22 months to be served concurrently for participating in the criminal activities of an organised crime group after being found guilty.

Tony Porter, 69, of Leicestershire, was sentenced to 22 months on March 19 after being found guilty of Participate in the criminal activities of an organised crime group.