Andrew Kelly and Donna Brand were convicted in December 2023 of the murder of Caroline Glachan, alongside Robert O’Brien, who was sentenced to life imprisonment with a 22-year punishment part. Kelly appealed his conviction, while Brand appealed both her conviction and her 17-year sentence, arguing it was excessive given her lesser role.

The court found sufficient evidence that all four adults, including the late Sarah O’Neill, had a pre-planned intent to harm Glachan, leading to her drowning. Eyewitness testimony and forensic evidence corroborated Kelly’s participation, while Brand’s motive and role in the attack were clear. The court concluded that Brand’s sentence fairly reflected her involvement, and both appeals were dismissed.