Second Man Charged with Murder of Barry Dawson as Investigation Continues

Published by Robert L Senior Reporter on Friday 11th April 2025 at 14:10hrs

A second man has appeared in court today charged with the murder of Barry Dawson, who died last weekend.

Thomas Lee Sterling, 21, of Stanley, was arrested on Wednesday evening in connection with the ongoing investigation.

Sterling appeared at Peterlee Magistrates’ Court this morning. He did not enter any pleas and was remanded into custody.

His next court appearance is scheduled for Monday, April 14, at Teesside Crown Court.
This charge follows the court appearance yesterday of Kevin Dorward, 38, who was also charged with Mr. Dawson’s murder.

Dorward, of Annfield Plain, appeared alongside Michaela Hetherington, 35, also of Annfield Plain, who has been charged with perverting the course of justice.

Neither Dorward nor Hetherington entered any pleas and were remanded in custody to appear at Durham Crown Court on May 9.

In a further development, a 47-year-old man who was wanted in connection with Mr. Dawson’s death handed himself in to police yesterday afternoon and has been arrested on suspicion of murder.

He remains in police custody today.

Additionally, a 49-year-old woman and a 20-year-old man, who were arrested on Wednesday on suspicion of assisting an offender, have been released on bail while further enquiries are conducted.

Detectives are continuing their round-the-clock work on the case, and the public can expect to see a significant police presence in the community as all lines of enquiry are thoroughly investigated.

Durham Constabulary is urging anyone with information that could assist the investigation to come forward. Reports can be made using the force’s Live Chat function online at: https://www.durham.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/.

Footage and information can also be shared with investigators via https://mipp.police.uk/operation/1101010119Q11-PO1.

Anyone reporting information by calling 101 should quote incident number 302 of April 5.

Members of the public are reminded to always call 999 in an emergency.

Alternatively, individuals can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.