Seven jailed for a total of 147 years for Greenock murder

Seven men have been sentenced to a total of 147 years in prison for the murder of Neil Canney in Greenock in 2023.

Jack Benson, 24, Dale Russell, 31, Martin McCusker, 41, Brendan Balloch, 25, Kieran Hendry, 26, and Michael Munro, 28, were found guilty at the High Court in Glasgow on Friday, 25 July, 2025, following a trial.

They were also found guilty of attempted murder.

Kieran Meechan, 29, previously pleaded guilty to murder at an earlier hearing.

All were given life sentences. Benson was sentenced to 20 years in prison, Russell 24 years, McCusker 23 years, Meechan 17 years. Balloch, Hendry and Munro were each sentenced to 21 years.

Around 1.15am on Tuesday, 28 February, 2023, Mr Canney was found seriously injured outside his property in Nairn Road, Greenock, after being shot on his doorstep.

He was taken to hospital where he died a short time later.

Following an extensive investigation, seven men were arrested and charged in connection with Mr Canney's death.

Detective Chief Inspector Graham McCreadie said: "This was a truly shocking and traumatic attack that took place in the community, and many people who knew Mr Canney witnessed the attack.

“This attack was planned and this conviction sends a strong message that those involved in such crimes will face the consequences of their callous and cowardly actions.

"I hope that this sentence brings some degree of closure to his family and friends and our thoughts remain with them at this difficult time.

“This was a complex investigation. I would like to thank all officers for their dedication and commitment throughout and those members of the public who assisted with our enquiries.

"Thankfully violent crimes like these in public places are rare. When such incidents take place, we will use all resources necessary to carry out thorough, rigorous inquiries to ensure we track down those responsible to bring them to justice, no matter your part in a crime.”