Man who killed his 'good-natured' friend who died from ruptured spleen in his own Yorkshire home jailed

Neville Morrison, 53, died from a ruptured spleen at his house in Hull after James Hayman, 37, attacked him during an argument.

Hayman has now been jailed for 10 years after his guilty plea to manslaughter was accepted ahead of a planned murder trial.

Mr Morrison, a father and grandfather, died at his home in Bransholme on March 6 and Hayman argued that he did not intend to fatally wound him.

Hull Crown Court heard that the two men had been friends, but Hayman had been taking advantage of Mr Moirrison and was exploiting the use of his home for his own needs.

Superintendent Doug Blackwood from Humberside Police said: “Before I address today’s outcome at court, I would like to extend my gratitude to Neville’s family who have shown incredible strength throughout court proceedings.

“Whilst the outcome at court cannot sadly bring Neville back, I really hope that it provides them with some comfort in knowing the man responsible for Neville’s death is now behind bars and unable to harm anyone else.

“James Hayman took advantage of Neville’s relaxed and easygoing good nature for his own selfish needs over a prolonged period of time, and then sadly fatally assaulted him.

“I’m pleased he admitted what he did, sparing Neville’s family the further heartache of a trial and that we have been able to bring him to justice.

Mr Morrison’s family said: “We cannot begin to put into words the devastation and heartache we have endured since losing Dad earlier this year.

“This was a senseless and callous attack and we will never be able to comprehend why anybody would carry out such drastic and unforgiveable actions over a disagreement.

“He exploited our dad’s good nature and caring personality, and now Dad will never get to see his grandchildren grow up.

“We are pleased James Hayman is now in prison being punished for his actions, but we now have to learn to live in a world without him.”