Lee Ryan seeks Supreme Court appeal over flight assault conviction
The former Blue singer was sentenced to 12 months suspended for racially aggravated assault on a British Airways attendant in 2022
Incident → evidence → outcomeLee Ryan, the former Blue singer, is pursuing a Supreme Court appeal against his conviction for racially aggravated assault on a British Airways flight attendant. The incident took place on a flight from Glasgow to London City Airport in July 2022, as reported by the BBC.
Ryan, 43, was sentenced to 12 months in prison, suspended for two years, at Isleworth Crown Court in September 2023. He had previously appealed unsuccessfully at both the Crown Court and the High Court. His barrister, Thom Dyke, confirmed the Supreme Court application deadline is 11 August 2024.
What happened on the flight
The trial heard Ryan had consumed a bottle of port before boarding the flight. Witnesses described him as slurring his words and staggering in the cabin. After being refused more alcohol and told to return to his seat, Ryan made comments about the attendant’s appearance and grabbed her wrists.
The assault was classified as racially aggravated. Ryan was convicted following a trial at Isleworth Crown Court. The court heard he had no prior convictions for similar offences.
Next steps in the legal process
Ryan’s legal team expects a decision on the Supreme Court application within two months. If the appeal is rejected, he will return to Isleworth Crown Court for sentencing. The court confirmed Ryan did not attend the latest hearing on Friday.
The Supreme Court will consider whether there is a point of law that justifies further appeal. If successful, Ryan’s conviction could be overturned or a retrial ordered. If not, the suspended sentence may be activated or adjusted.
Questions this report answers
01What was Lee Ryan convicted of?
Lee Ryan was convicted of racially aggravated assault on a British Airways flight attendant during a flight from Glasgow to London City Airport in July 2022. The court heard he grabbed the attendant’s wrists and made inappropriate comments after being refused more alcohol.
02What sentence did Lee Ryan receive?
Ryan received a 12-month suspended prison sentence at Isleworth Crown Court in September 2023. The sentence was suspended for two years, meaning he will only serve it if he commits another offence or fails to comply with court orders.
03When is the deadline for Lee Ryan’s Supreme Court appeal?
The deadline for Ryan’s Supreme Court appeal application is 11 August 2024, as confirmed by his barrister, Thom Dyke. A decision on whether the court will hear the appeal is expected within two months.
04What happens if the Supreme Court rejects Lee Ryan’s appeal?
If the Supreme Court rejects Ryan’s appeal, he will return to Isleworth Crown Court for sentencing. The court may activate the suspended 12-month prison sentence or impose a different penalty.
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