Former Postman Trevor Gocan Jailed for 12 years for Killing Neighbor James O’Neill

A 57-year-old man, Trevor Gocan, has been jailed for 12 years after killing his elderly neighbor, James O’Neill, in a violent argument over closing a gate at their housing estate in Covent Garden, Central London.

The tragic incident happened on Sunday, October 6, 2024, at Odhams Walk, where both men lived. Gocan punched Mr. O’Neill, causing him to lose a tooth, then kicked him hard. Mr. O’Neill later died in hospital on October 21, two weeks after the assault.

Court Case and Sentencing

A jury found Gocan guilty of manslaughter, but not guilty of murder, after a trial last month. On June 25, 2025, Judge Sally-Ann Hales KC sentenced him to 12 years in prison, with up to two-thirds to be served in custody, and the remainder on licence.

The court heard that Gocan showed no emotion during sentencing. He sat behind a glass screen in court, wearing a grey prison t-shirt and trousers.

Judge Hales said the attack included a final hard kick to Mr. O’Neill’s chest, breaking three ribs. She also said the attack was witnessed by members of the public, including a 12-year-old boy, which made the crime even more serious.

Victim’s Family Devastated

Sara O’Neill, the victim’s wife of 49 years, gave a moving statement through prosecutor Lisa Wilding KC. She said the loss of her husband had destroyed her life, and she was forced to sell their home of 42 years because it was too painful to stay.

“Jim was my soulmate and the reason I came to this country,” she said. “I am heartbroken knowing he will miss watching our children and grandchildren grow.”

Their son Lee, a school teacher, called his father a kind and principled man. He said Gocan’s lack of remorse caused him great pain.

Gocan’s Background and Court Apology

Gocan had no previous convictions, but was cautioned by police in 2012 for assaulting his wife. Despite their separation in 2015, his wife supported him during the trial. She told the court he was a hands-on father, especially to their son with autism.

His lawyer, Benjamin Aina KC, said Gocan suffered childhood abuse and had recently left his job at Royal Mail due to PTSD. Gocan also wrote a letter of apology to the court, expressing deep remorse and regret.

“I am so very, very sorry,” he wrote. “I do not expect sympathy, but I hope the family knows I carry this guilt every day.”

However, Judge Hales said that Gocan did nothing to help Mr. O’Neill after the attack. She rejected his claim that he acted in self-defence and said he showed no remorse during the trial.

A Life Lost Over a Gate

The judge summed up the case by saying: “You walked away. Mr. O’Neill did not.”

The judge acknowledged the lasting impact on both families and deducted 248 days already served in custody from Gocan’s sentence.