Jason Lockwood death: Blyth flat murder pair sentenced
Two men have been sentenced to life for the murder of a 40-year-old man whose body was found in a burning flat in Northumberland.
Jason Lockwood was found with severe head injuries at his home in Nordale House, Blyth, in February 2012.
Kyle Gordon, 25, of Plover Close, Blyth, had previously admitted murder.
Stephen Tiffin, 30, of Ingoe Close, also in Blyth, denied the charge but was found guilty following a trial in January.
The judge at Newcastle Crown Court ordered that Tiffin should serve a minimum term of 18 years, and Gordon a minimum of 11 years and six months.
Det Ch Insp Ian Bentham, of Northumbria Police, said: "Jason Lockwood died in his own home after a brutal attack by people he believed to be his friends.
"His attackers then set fire to his home and left him dying inside.
"Stephen Tiffin denied responsibility and tried to blame the attack on Kyle Gordon, but the jury listened to the evidence and found Tiffin equally guilty of Mr Lockwood's murder.
"I welcome this sentence today and I would like to thank all the witnesses who have supported this investigation."