Teenager jailed for 18 years for attempted murder in Derby

A young man has today been sentenced to 18 years in jail for attempted murder following a shooting in Mackworth.

Tafa Whittaker, of Wild Street, Derby, was found guilty following a two-week trial at Derby Crown Court in February this year.

The jury heard how the then 17-year-old shot his 34-year-old victim in the stomach with a shotgun on the evening of September 14, 2022.

It happened following an earlier dispute between the victim, his friend, and a group of youths- including Whittaker- earlier the same evening.

Following the shooting in Ilford Road the victim was rushed to hospital with life-threatening injuries and had to undergo multiple operations and blood transfusions.

Tafa Whittaker

Detective Inspector Pete Hundal, the Senior Investigating Officer in this case, said: “Whittaker kept a dangerous firearm at his home without fear. He brazenly took it out on the streets and caused serious harm to someone who, when faced with such a weapon, would have had difficulty in defending himself.

“The victim suffered extremely serious, life-threatening injuries, had to go through multiple operations, and no doubt will go on to suffer mental trauma from this truly shocking ordeal. He has said in his own words that his life will never be the same again. I can only hope that this outcome will offer the victim and his loved ones some form of closure and help them to move on with rebuilding their lives.”

DI Hundal added: “My officers worked tirelessly on this investigation to ensure the individual responsible was brought to justice. I would like to thank them for their hard work and diligence in this case which shows just what the devastating consequences of gun crime can be, not only on victims and their families but also the wider community.

 “It should also send a message that if you arm yourself with any kind of a weapon, the chances are you will end up behind bars, seriously or fatally hurting someone, or getting seriously hurt yourself. It really isn’t worth the risk."

Whittaker, who is now 18 years old, has been sentenced to 18 years in prison and told he must serve a minimum of 12 years before being considered for release. Time served on remand will count towards his sentence. 

If you are concerned or have any information that someone could be carrying a firearm or a knife in your community, please contact us using one of the following non-emergency contact methods:

• Website – We have crime reporting tools on our website: use our online contact form
• Facebook – send us private message to the Derbyshire Constabulary Facebook page
• Twitter – direct message our contact centre via @DerPolContact
• Phone – call us on 101

You can also anonymously contact the independent charity CrimeStoppers, on 0800 555 111, or by visiting the CrimeStoppers website