Joseph Nee has become a household name in the UK, particularly across Merseyside, following his involvement in one of the most shocking crimes in recent years. As the intended target of the shooting that led to the tragic death of nine-year-old Olivia Pratt-Korbel, Nee’s life and criminal history have been thrust into the national spotlight. This article explores who Joseph Nee is, his background, and why his name continues to trend in UK news.
Who Is Joseph Nee?
Joseph Nee, a 37-year-old from Dovecot, Liverpool, is a convicted drug dealer and burglar. His criminal record spans several years, with offences ranging from burglary and theft to drug possession. Nee’s notoriety, however, surged in August 2022 when he became the target of a violent attack that ended in tragedy for an innocent family.
The Shooting of Olivia Pratt-Korbel
On the night of 22 August 2022, Liverpool was shaken by a crime that would capture the nation’s attention. Thomas Cashman, described as a “high-level” cannabis dealer, lay in wait for Nee, intent on carrying out a targeted shooting. As Nee left a friend’s house, Cashman chased him up Kingsheath Avenue, firing multiple shots. Nee, wounded, desperately sought refuge and ran into the nearest open door, which tragically belonged to the family of Olivia Pratt-Korbel.
Olivia’s mother, Cheryl Korbel, had stepped outside to investigate the commotion. Nee forced his way into their home, closely pursued by Cashman. In the chaos, Cashman fired a bullet through the front door. The shot passed through Cheryl Korbel’s wrist and struck Olivia in the chest, killing her. Cashman fled, while Nee was taken to hospital by associates. The city of Liverpool, and indeed the whole country, mourned the senseless loss of a young life.
Joseph Nee’s Criminal Past
Nee’s criminal record is extensive. He was previously jailed for 45 months in 2018 after admitting to burglary, theft of motor vehicles, dangerous driving, and driving while disqualified. Police caught him and two others following a high-speed chase. Nee was released from prison on licence but was later recalled for breaching the terms of his release. His repeated run-ins with the law have made him a familiar figure to Merseyside Police.
In addition to his past convictions, Nee has been found guilty of possessing cannabis on multiple occasions. In July 2024, he was fined £60 after police found a small quantity of cannabis in his underwear during a strip search. The court heard that Nee had five previous convictions for cannabis possession among a raft of other offences. Judge Louise Brandon, who presided over his most recent case, described his criminal record as “appalling” and warned him to “keep his nose clean”.
Gang Injunctions and Police Crackdown
Following the shooting, Merseyside Police took decisive action to curb gang-related activity in the area. In May 2023, Joseph Nee and his brother, Jason, were served with two-year gang injunctions. These court orders prohibit them from associating with certain individuals, possessing more than one phone, and riding motorbikes or electric scooters within Merseyside. The injunctions are part of a broader effort by police to dismantle organised crime groups and reassure law-abiding residents.
Chief Inspector Tony Fairhurst of Merseyside Police stated that these injunctions are a strong deterrent. Breaching their terms can lead to immediate arrest and potential prison sentences. The police have emphasised their commitment to tackling serious organised crime and have urged the public to report any suspicious activity.
The Aftermath and Public Reaction
The murder of Olivia Pratt-Korbel sent shockwaves through Liverpool and the wider UK. The case highlighted the devastating impact of organised crime and gun violence on innocent families. Public anger was palpable, with many calling for tougher action against gangs and stricter controls on firearms.
Thomas Cashman, the man responsible for Olivia’s death, was convicted of her murder, the attempted murder of Joseph Nee, and the wounding of Cheryl Korbel. He received a life sentence with a minimum term of 42 years. The trial revealed that Nee and his family had been targeted before, with an earlier attempt on his life just weeks prior to the fatal shooting.
A Community in Mourning
Liverpool’s response to Olivia’s death was one of unity and resilience. Vigils and memorials were held across the city, with thousands expressing their condolences to the Korbel family. The tragedy prompted renewed calls for community action and support for victims of crime.
Local leaders and campaigners have since pushed for better resources to tackle gang activity and support vulnerable families. The case remains a stark reminder of the dangers posed by organised crime and the importance of community vigilance.
Expert Insights and Official Statements
Merseyside Police have reiterated their determination to root out organised crime. In a statement, they highlighted the importance of gang injunctions and community cooperation. Officers continue to monitor individuals like Joseph Nee closely, ensuring that any breaches of court orders are met with swift action.
Legal experts have noted that gang injunctions, while not new, have become more widely used in recent years. These civil orders allow police to restrict the movements and associations of individuals suspected of gang involvement, even in the absence of fresh criminal convictions.
The Broader Context
Joseph Nee’s continued presence in the news is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by communities affected by organised crime. The measures taken by Merseyside Police, including the use of gang injunctions, reflect a determined effort to restore safety and confidence to local residents. However, the legacy of Olivia’s death remains a powerful motivator for ongoing vigilance and reform.
Conclusion:
Joseph Nee’s name has become synonymous with one of the most heartbreaking crimes in recent UK history. His criminal background and role as the intended target in the shooting that killed Olivia Pratt-Korbel have kept him in the headlines. The case has sparked important conversations about crime, justice, and community safety in Liverpool and beyond.
As Merseyside Police continue their efforts to tackle gang-related crime, the legacy of Olivia’s death serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need for action. The story of Joseph Nee is a cautionary tale about the consequences of criminality and the far-reaching impact it can have on innocent lives.
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