Earlier this week, convicted murderer Ashley Crowder, 37, refused to come from the cells and into the dock at Bolton Crown Court for his own sentencing hearing. "Too often cowardly criminals refuse to face justice, which is why we’ve introduced legislation so those who refuse can be forced to the dock or face extra time added to their sentence.” He denied his crimes at trial but was convicted by a jury of murdering Mr Cox, as well as of assault and two counts of theft. During the sentencing hearing, Mr Cox's daughter Elisha said the family had been "disgusted" by Crowder's behaviour throughout the trial. The sentencing hearing is set to be concluded by the Honorary Recorder of Bolton, Judge Nicholas Clarke KC, on Thursday, August 6.