David Austin Sentenced for Murder of Steven Peck
A County Antrim man who admitted to the murder of Steven Peck, described as a "gentle giant," has been sentenced to 16 and a half years in prison before being eligible for release.
David Austin, 59, from Cherry Gardens in Ballymoney, attacked 33-year-old Steven Peck in a laneway in the town in January 2021. Steven had been lured to the location by Austin, who, along with two other men, Brian McCook, 30, and Stephen McCook, 34, assaulted Mr. Peck by beating and kicking him.
Austin struck Steven twice with an iron bar, and Steven died six days later in hospital as a result of his injuries.
Sentencing of the McCook Brothers and Their Mother
The McCook brothers, residents of Urbal Road in Dervock, received sentences of four years in prison each. Their sentences include two years in custody and two years on licence for assisting an offender.
Their mother, Easther McCook, 51, was sentenced to two years, suspended for three years, after being found guilty of perverting the course of justice by providing false alibis for her sons.
The presiding judge stated that Austin had "instigated, planned and led the attack" on Steven Peck.
Background on Steven Peck and Family Impact
Steven Peck lived with his parents and sister in Ballymoney. He was adopted by the family as a baby.
During the hearing, the judge read a victim impact statement from Steven's mother, Rosemary Peck, in which she expressed her love for her son and the profound heartbreak she has experienced.
Rosemary Peck has been diagnosed with Motor Neuron Disease (MND) and uses a wheelchair. She had to leave the courtroom temporarily during the proceedings due to her condition.
Community and Police Response
Detective Chief Inspector Hazel Miller described Steven Peck as "loving, caring and gentle" and a "much-loved son and brother."
"This was a totally brutal and senseless crime," she said.
"The severity of the attack itself, and the callous way in which this victim was left lying on the ground, shocked an entire community, while leaving a loving family shattered.
Amidst the sorrow, we're keen to acknowledge the efforts of a member of the public who not only called for help, but also administered first aid until the emergency services arrived."
Detective Chief Inspector Miller added that the Peck family "live on with the pain and anguish of what happened to Steven, every single day."
