Six people have been sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of 40-year-old Joanne Penney following a major investigation into a fatal shooting in Talbot Green, in what is believed to be the largest murder sentencing ever handed down in Wales.
The combined minimum prison terms imposed total more than 157 years, following sentencing proceedings at Cardiff Crown Court.
Joanne Penney was fatally shot at a property in Talbot Green on 9 March 2025. Emergency services attended the scene after reports of a shooting, but despite extensive medical treatment, she was pronounced dead.
The investigation established that two vehicles travelled from the Leicester area into South Wales on the day of the shooting before returning shortly afterwards. Detectives linked those involved to organised criminal groups operating across different parts of the UK.
Evidence presented during the case revealed that Joanne’s death was the result of an ongoing dispute between rival organised crime groups involved in drug trafficking. Investigators carried out an extensive operation, resulting in 12 people being convicted for offences connected to the case, with six receiving murder convictions.
Murder Sentences
- Marcus Huntley, 21, of St Mellons, Cardiff, pleaded guilty to murder and participation in the activities of an organised crime group. He was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 30 years and 146 days.
- Renaldo Baptiste, 39, of London, was found guilty of murder and sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 42 years.
- Jordan Mills-Smith, 33, of Cardiff, was convicted of murder and sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 27 years.
- Joshua Gordon, 27, of Leicestershire, was convicted of murder and sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 32 years.
- Melissa Quailey-Dashper, 40, of Leicester, was convicted of murder and sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 14 years.
- Kistina Ginova, 23, of Leicestershire, was convicted of murder and sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 12 years.
Several of those convicted also received additional concurrent sentences after admitting or being found guilty of participating in the activities of an organised crime group.
Family Pays Tribute
Following the sentencing, Joanne Penney’s family described her death as a devastating loss that has left a permanent void in their lives.
They said Joanne was a much-loved daughter, mother, sister and niece whose kindness, strength and devotion to her family will never be forgotten. The family also expressed their gratitude to investigators for their dedication and support throughout the case.
Investigation
The investigation uncovered evidence linking suspects, vehicles and organised criminal activity across multiple regions, with detectives piecing together extensive forensic, digital and intelligence evidence to identify those responsible.
The case highlights the devastating impact that organised crime, drug-related violence and the use of firearms continue to have on families and communities.
Authorities say they remain committed to targeting organised crime groups, disrupting serious criminal networks and bringing those responsible for violent offences before the courts.
