Life sentence for
Attempted murder in Hackney

Desmond Meade, 26 years-old of Crondall Court, St John’s Estate London N1, who was convicted of the attempted murder of a 44 year-old man in Hackney and of possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, has been sentenced to life imprisonment.
Investigating officer DS Chris Jones from Operation Trident North East Shootings Team said: "This crime would appear to have been motivated by an insignificant drugs debt of £150 owed to Meade by the victim. Meade, who was a well placed drug dealer in Hackney, demonstrated total disregard for the victim's life and safety of other members of the public, including children who were playing nearby. I would like to praise the courage of both victim and witnesses who gave evidence under difficult circumstances ensuring Meade was brought to justice. I am satisfied that Hackney Borough will be a safer place without the criminal activities of Desmond Meade.'
An investigation was launched after police were called at 22:45hrs on Tuesday 4 August 2009 to the junction of Cropley Street and Napier Grove N1 to reports of a man suffering from a gunshot wound. There they found a man aged 44 and a woman aged 39, close to a Vauxhall Corsa that had been in collision with a wall. The man was suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest. He was taken by ambulance to a London hospital where he was treated. He has since made a good recovery. The woman received hospital treatment for minor injuries and was later discharged.
The shooting took place following an alleged dispute over a drugs debt involving both parties. The victim was involved in a brief altercation when Desmond Meade approached him. Meade produced a firearm and shot the man once in the chest. As the victim lay injured Meade ran from the scene.

Attempted rape in Barking
Stayed on train to continue conversation

On the evening of Thursday 3 December 2009, a man engaged a 25-year-old woman in conversation on a tube journey between Mile End and Barking stations. The man - who referred to himself as John - told the woman he lived in East Ham but would stay on the District Line train until Barking (where she was due to get off) and take a Number 5 bus back in order to continue their conversation. During their chat he told her that he had recently moved from Newcastle where he had been studying to be an electrician.
At approximately 22.30hrs the pair left the tube station separately; but the woman became concerned when she noticed the man was still following her as she walked through the town centre. She attempted to attract the attention of a driver in a car park in London Rd, but the vehicle drove off. At this point the man grabbed her and pulled her to the rear of a set of shops before attempting to assault her.
Luckily a security light came on at the rear of a Chinese takeaway - allowing the victim a chance to free herself from the suspect's grip. He ran from the scene, heading in the direction of North Street, Barking. The victim was able to alert her partner and police were called.
The suspect is described as black, approx 30 years old, of stocky build, with brown eyes. He was wearing a white top, brown jacket - possibly suede or leather, dark blue jeans, dark brown Timabaland-style boots, and a navy blue hat with an ‘EDF’ logo.
Anyone with information which may be able to assist the investigation is asked to call the Sapphire Unit on 01708 779 623. To remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.  

Trinidadian went missing
Nine years ago in Wealdstone
Have you seen him ?

Detectives investigating the disappearance of 72 year-old Don Banfield are renewing appeals for information regarding his whereabouts. He was reported as missing to police on 19 May 2001. Don was last sighted by a family member leaving his home address in Locket Road, Wealdstone on 13 May 2001.
Mr Banfield, a retired betting shop manager from Trinidad, is described as black, of slim build with brown eyes, receding grey hair and approx 5'6" in height. He also has a tattoo of a heart on his left hand. Prior to his disappearance, Mr Banfield was known to use betting shops and cafes in the west London area, particularly in Shepherds Bush and Wealdstone. Mr Banfield speaks with a pronounced West Indian accent and is known to be a heavy smoker. In May 2001 an investigation began at the Missing Persons Unit based at Harrow, and a number of appeals and lines of enquiry were followed. As part of a routine review into outstanding missing person cases across London, it was decided to revisit lines of enquiry and explore further forensic opportunities in this case. This is being conducted by the Homicide and Serious Crime Command [HSCC],who routinely investigate cases of high risk missing people.
DCI Howard Groves, of the HSCC based at Barnes, said:
"Nearly nine years on, we are reiterating appeals to trace missing Don Banfield. Mr Banfield has been described to me as a chatty, sociable man who knew many people in Harrow and surrounding west London, where he had been a betting shop manager. He also had a wide circle of friends who he kept in regular contact with. However, since his disappearance this contact has ceased. I am keen to speak to anyone who may have seen or heard from Mr Banfield since he was reported as missing."
Anyone with information which may assist police with this enquiry is asked to contact the incident room on 020 8247 7821; or if you wish to remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Murder of Matalan Manager
Teenager convicted

Kobina Essel, 19 years old, has been convicted of the Matalan store manager Jamie Simpson, in Hackney on 22 April 2008. Anthony Maina, 20 years old, 25 year-old Simeon Jumah and 17 year-old Randy Osei-Owusu have been convicted of manslaughter, and 20 year-old Duane Owusu, 18 year-old Jamal Chambers and 31 year-pld Roy Williams have been convicted of conspiracy to rob.
Mr Simpson, who lived in Herne Hill, a late-shift duty manager, was cashing-up the day’s takings when he was approached by Essel who had been hiding behind a staff staircase. He stabbed him in the neck and back with a kitchen knife. The assailants fled empty-handed of the money they had come to steal and made off in a waiting Ford Fiesta. Mr Simpson died at the scene.
Investigating officer DCI Jackie Sebire of the Homicide and Serious Crime Command, said: "Today, following a long and complex investigation, seven defendants have been convicted. Jamie was a good man who was simply going about his job as a store manager at Matalan, Hackney when he was fatally stabbed. He lost his life because the defendants, who each played their various parts, had devised a plan to steal the store's takings. Roy Williams, the store's security guard, betrayed Jamie's trust by conspiring with others to rob the very premises and staff he was supposed to protect. A reconnaissance visit was held the day before and Williams was able to inform the others how to get into the store, avoiding CCTV and telling them where to hide.
As Williams finished work that night, he left Jamie and his colleagues knowing the robbers were lying in wait, ready to approach Jamie. Kobina Essel stabbed Jamie fatally in the neck and back, having made no attempt to get the cash they came for. Jamie was a much loved eldest son, who belonged to a close and loving family- he was also a well liked and respected member of staff at Matalan, who was always happy to assist colleagues and customers. I would like to thank Jamie's family for the assistance they have provided during the course of the investigation. Throughout their ordeal, they have shown the utmost patience, dignity and courage. I would also like to thank Matalan for their cooperation and the detectives who worked on this investigation for their commitment and professionalism."
In a statement, the family of Jamie Simpson said: "It has been a tremendously hard time for all of us to deal with and the support that we have received from friends and family over the last two years has kept us going and helped us to remain strong. We would like to thank the police for their hard pain-staking work in catching those responsible for the death of Jamie and for their support during the trial. We would also like to thank Through Unity for their generous support throughout the last year. We hope that we can find some sense of meaning to our lives for the future."

Stabbing a Beckton cinema
Third man arrested

A third male arrested in connection with the fatal stabbing of 17-yr-old Olukorede Fajinmi (knoen also as Korede) outside the Showcase Cinema in Beckton on 19 February has been bailed pending further enquiries to a date in late March. The victim died at the scene.  An incident room was opened in Barking under Acting Detective Chief Inspector Alan Moore from the Homicide and Serious Crime Command (HSCC).
Detective Inspector Ian Goldsborough, the investigating officer from the HSCC said: "We believe there will have been people in the area, either going to or from the Showcase cinema or the nearby restaurant, that may have seen or heard the incident that has lead to the tragic death of a teenager. We are appealing to them, or anyone else that was in the area at the time of the incident, to contact us and lets us know what they saw or heard."
Any witnesses or anyone with any information that could assist police should call the incident room on 020 8345 4142 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Three males have been arrested in connection with this inquiry.

Gunpoint robberies
Neighbour convicted

Akinni Constantine, 23 years old, has been sentenced to jail for four and a half years for a series of gunpoint robberies in Haringey that took place during the space of a month. He lived just around the corner from where he committed the offences and approached his victims in the street and used a realistic imitation firearm to terrify them into handing over property including jewellery worth more than £1,000, mobile phones, cash and cigarettes.
Detective Constable Saima Hussain the investigating officer from Haringey CID, said: "Constantine showed no remorse for the fear that he caused his victims, one of whom was so frightened that she collapsed in the street when he pointed the gun at her. Another victim, a young boy of just 14 years of age, was robbed while Constantine held the gun to his chest. None of his victims would have known that the firearm was an imitation and they would have been absolutely terrified for their lives. This conviction is good news for the victims, who have shown courage and public spirit in assisting us with this case, and I am really pleased that this violent offender has been brought to justice."

Rape in back of car
On Uganda Independence Day

Detectives are investigating the sexual assault of a 22 year-old woman in Stephenson Street, Canning Town at about 05.10 hours on 10 October 2009. The victim had left The Plymouth Arms (a.k.a Pier One Club) and agreed to get into the blue Ford Focus of a man she had met there while waiting for her friends. The assailant trapped her in the back of the car by pushing back his seat, trapping her legs, and assaulted her. He is described as being black, aged in his late 20s, 6ft 3inches tall, wearing a dark jacket, royal blue top and dark jeans, and he spoke with a strong African accent. Uganda Independence Day was being celebrated at the club.
Anyone with information is asked to call Newham CID on 020 8217 9873. Alternatively, to remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Convicted of murder of Gavin Defoe
Punched to his head in Leytonstone

The Metropolitan Police are offering a reward of £ 20,000 for information leading to the identification, arrest and prosecution of the person responsible for murdering James Andre Smartt-Ford at the Streatham Ice Rink, Streatham, High Road, London SW 16 at approximately 22.55 hrs on 3^rd February 2007. On that night the Ice Rink hosted a disco event attended by more than three hundred people, most of whom were in their mid/late-teens.
Andre was approached at the bottom of the stairs leading onto the ice by a black youth wearing dark clothing. He was hit by two shots and staggered a few metres onto the ice before collapsing. The cause of death was given at a post-mortem as being gunshot wounds.
Detective Chief Inspector Gordon Allison, from the Trident team investigating Andre's murder, said: "Three years have now passed since Andre was brutally murdered in front of a significant number of witnesses. We want to hear from anyone who may remember something from that night and ask that those who may not have spoken to us before to come forward and help us bring the murderer to justice. We believe there are those who have information key to this investigation. These witnesses have the power to bring an end to this and to take dangerous people off the street who cause harm to their community. We remain determined to solve this murder and bring some resolution for Andre and his family."
Trident are appealing for anyone who may have information, or who was at the event, to call the incident room on 020 8247 4554; if you wish to remain anonymous please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
6^th February 2010

Teenager stabbed to death in fight at Bow
A murder investigation is underway after an 18-year-old boy was stabbed and another injured following a fight in Bow. Police were called at about 21:20 on Wednesday 13 January to reports of a fight involving a group of approximately 15 people, in Parnell Road, Bow, E3. Officers discovered two people nearby, one man and one youth, suffering from stab wounds.
Both were taken to an east London hospital.
An 18year-old was pronounced dead at 02:14 today, 15 January. Formal identification is yet to take place. However, policeare satisfied the deceased is Isschan Nicholls [13.10.91] of E14. A post mortem is due to take place tomorrow, Saturday 16 January at the Royal London hospital, Whitechapel. The other, 17 year-old, victim was also taken to an east London hospital and has since been discharged. Officers from the Homicide and Serious Crime Command are investigating.
An incident room has opened at Sutton under DI Andy Booth.
Anyone with information is urged to call the incident room on 020 8721 4054 or to remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Ten people (two women and eight males) have been arrested in connection with the investigation.

Sentenced to prison for robberies in Battersea
After CCTV picks up his distinctive carrier-bag
A 33 year old man from Battersea has been sentenced to three years in prison for two residential burglaries in Battersea after his distinctive carrier bag gave his movements away on CCTV. Aubrey Appiah, unemployed, of Shrubbery Road, Streatham SW16, appeared at Kingston Court on 13 January 2010 on two charges of burglary on Friday the 23rd October. He was listed for an administrative hearing but when he saw the prosecution case against him, he pleaded guilty. It follows an investigation by Wandsworth CID. The court was shown a compilation of CCTV images of Appiah captured from various locations on Wandsworth Borough during the day of 23 October.  In all the images, Appiah carries a black and white carrier bag and is wearing a black jacket; in some he is also wearing a dark baseball cap.
The burglaries took place at two maisonettes in Shuttleworth Road, Battersea. On the CCTV. a man, later identified as Appiah, can be seen entering the communal entrance. He emerges around half an hour later at 13:20 hrs and can be seen taking off a pair of black gloves and putting them in the carrier bag. Both maisonettes were burgled and property such as i-phones and foreign currency stolen. The doors of the properties were smashed and kicked open. Approximately 20 mins later, Appiah can be seen on CCTV at another address. There are no reports of any burglaries from this address but the property from Shuttleworth Road was never recovered.
Further CCTV from local businesses traced the suspect's movements to Falcon Road and provided clear images of the suspect in the same clothing that afternoon and earlier in the day when he visited Wandsworth Council's housing offices. Following enquiries and a few hundred hours of CCTV viewing, officers went to Appiah's home address on 27 October. They found the clothing and the carrier bag at his home. He was arrested and later charged.
Detective Inspector Matt Phelps of the Priority Crime Unit said the evidence from CCTV facilities in the borough produced a roadmap of the suspect's movements that formed the main Prosecution case.
"We want to thank the business community and our partners at Wandsworth Council for their co-operation in providing the CCTV footage that was to prove so crucial to this case. I also want to point out that residents of Shuttleworth Road where the burglaries took place paid for their own CCTV cameras. Appiah had no choice other than to plead guilty when he saw the visual case against him. It clearly shows that when used correctly, CCTV can play an integral part in police investigations. It enabled Appiah, a prolific offender, to be identified, apprehended and convicted."

Two sentenced to live for murdering their grandfather in Battersea
Paul Peters, 76, from Kennard House, Francis Chichester Way, Battersea, died in his home on Saturday 22 May 2009 from multiple injuries, including having his ribs being broken in 33 places. Locally, his neighbours called him “Grandad” and knew him as an elderly and frail man. He was murdered in a merciless and prolonged attack by the two grandsons he had welcomed into his home.
Wayne Edwards, 34, unemployed, of Kennard House, Battersea, and Anton Alexander Sanderson, 25, unemployed, of Latymer Way, N9 were today, Thursday 14 January 2010 found guilty of murder. They have both been sentenced to life in prison, to serve a minimum of 20 years. Edwards was living with his grandfather in the flat at Kennard House, where the brothers acted together using whatever weapons came to hand, including their fists, feet, bottles and pieces of furniture to beat their grandfather to death. Bizarrely, Edwards and Sanderson also visited a nearby takeaway restaurant on the night of the murder. They had been drinking heavily and in a fit of violence caused £17,000 worth of damage to the Noor Tandoori.
When police interviewed Edwards he maintained that he had fallen asleep as the result of drinking too much alcohol and did not wake until 01:00hrs on Sunday 3 May, by which time his grandfather was already dead, so therefore saw and did nothing. However, CCTV evidence showed that this was not true, as did evidence given by neighbours who saw and heard him.
The brothers were known to police and social services for problems in the past. Social services had been working closely with Paul Peters as he had reported a history of a violent relationship to the authorities. At one stage social services assisted Peters in changing his locks to keep his grandsons out of the flat, after he had stated he did not want them living with him, claiming “this could escalate and God knows what could happen to me.”
Sadly, Paul Peters did let his grandsons have access to his flat again, even though Edwards was once arrested on suspicion of assault and later released, Paul Peters gave him a new set of keys telling his social worker that he ‘could not live alone.’
On Saturday 2 May, neighbours at Kennard House, who knew of the troublesome relationships in the family and that Edwards and Sanderson were known locally to be troublemakers, heard smashing glass and fighting from Paul Peters’s flat. By 22:00hrs the noise had stopped. Both Edwards and Johnson were seen at various stages in the evening on CCTV leaving the property, having changed their clothes to hide the fact they had just beaten Paul Peters to death.
Sanderson was arrested that day at Victoria Underground station, having stolen some items from WH Smiths. He was released from custody at 03:00hrs, whilst in the meantime CCTV showed Edwards entering the crime scene in an attempt to clear up the blood. Neighbours were woken by the sound of footsteps and furniture being dragged around as they tried to clear up the evidence of the brutal attack, disposing of the weapons, bedding and tissues down the communal rubbish chute.
At approx 08:30hrs on Sunday, Loxley Peters, the son of Paul Peters and uncle of the defendants visited the flat. He found the body of Paul Peters in the kitchen, half naked and covered in bruises. Edwards was arrested at the scene at 09:20hrs on suspicion of murder, Sanderson was arrested later that day.
DI Gary Arthur, Homicide and Serious Crime Command, said:
“The evidence against these brothers was overwhelming, through forensics and CCTV we have successfully been able to bring these violent brothers to justice. It is far from our understanding how anyone could brutally beat a frail old man to death. It is tragic that he had to die in such a way.”

Charged with Surrey Quays rape
Mark Ramdin - 26, (14/3/83) - of Kirkwood Road, Peckham was charged on 12 January with rape of a woman near Surrey Quays Road on 1 January.He appeared in custody at Tower Bridge Magistrates' Court on Wednesday, 13 January.

Family tribute to man shot dead at nightclub

The family of Danny ‘Dannyman’ McCalla, aged 50 years have released a tribute and a picture. Speaking on behalf of the whole family, his eldest son said:
“My dad was a loving, kind and fair person. He was a father of three and a family man as well as an entrepreneur. He was a real people’s person who affected everybody’s life in a good way. Educated and peaceful, he loved music and he loved life.”
Danny was shot in Tropical Harmony Nightclub at around 4.30am on Saturday 21 November.
A murder investigation - Operation Bluepathway - was immediately launched,
Detectives working on the investigation have arrested three men from the Black Country, they have been bailed pending further enquiries. Detectives continue to appeal for anyone who was in the nightclub on Saturday morning, or who knows anything about the incident to come forward.
Anybody with information is urged to call West Midlands Police on 0845 113 5000. Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Steven Lewis

Convicted of murder of 15 year-old in East Londom
A 17 year-old youth has today, Monday 16 November been jailed for 17 years at The Old Bailey after being found guilty of the murder of Steven Lewis who was stabbed in east London in January this year. He is Chris MAZEKELUA [08.04.92 - now 17]. The sentencing of a second male has been postponed until December 7. Two others were convicted of murder on 15 October and a 16 year old youth was acquitted at trial at the end of September.
The officer in charge of the investigation, Detective Chief Inspector Stephen Clayman from the Homicide and Serious Crime Command, said:
"This investigation has once again highlighted a willingness for some young people to arm themselves with weapons and in this case, to use them with fatal consequences. A number of knives, including a machete, were found discarded in and around the scene after the police had arrived. This only reinforces the need for a robust response by the MPS when tackling those who choose to carry such weapons. This inquiry was hampered at an early stage by a significant lack of co-operation by more than 300 young people who were present at the scene and who were clearly influenced by a 'don't snitch' culture. Many refused to speak to the police and many of those who did were simply not prepared to provide any evidence. This resulted in those that had initially been arrested having to be bailed. In this case, public support through witness evidence was paramount due to other factors, such as forensic evidence being minimal. Fortunately, a small number of people were brave enough to come forward and provide evidence and it is as a result of their efforts, along with a dedicated investigation team, that convictions have been secured. This only reinforces the need for communities, particularly its younger members, to have the confidence and trust to speak to the police, to see tackling violent crime as their business and that the police can deal with their issues. I would like to thank all those who supported this investigation and our thoughts go out to Steven's family at this time”.
At 22.45 on Saturday 24/1/09 police on vehicle patrol arrived in Whitwell Road E13 and saw a large group of youths. The group fled the area on seeing the officers, who discovered Steven Lewis [7.2.93 - 15 ys] stabbed in the chest. He was taken to the Royal London Hospital where he was pronounced dead at 2348. A post-mortem gave cause of death as a stab wound. 

Detectives appeal regarding murder by shooting in Ealing one year ago
“There were people present on that day who know what happened”
Homicide detectives are appealing for information a year after the murder of Jason Johnson in Ealing on 21st November 2008 and are offering a reward of £20,000 for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of those responsible.
Detective Chief Inspector John Crossley, who is leading the investigation said:
"We believe Jason knew his attackers. Following an incident earlier in the day, Jason was contacted by a friend to come to an alleyway known locally as ' dead mans alley' to resolve the dispute. Once there he and his friends were confronted by a group of males resulting in Jason receiving a fatal gunshot wound to the chest. I know there were people present on that day who know what happened and who was responsible for Jason's murder. I would ask these people to search their consciences and do the right thing. There is a reward of £20,000 for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of those responsible. Anyone with information should contact the incident room on 020 8733 4704 or if you wish to remain anonymous call Crime stoppers on 0800 555 111".
Jason's mother, Sheila Johnson-Stewart, 54 years, a psychiatric nurse said:
"A year ago, my son was brutally and cruelly taken from us all. I am left without a son, my daughter no longer has a big brother and my grandson has lost his Dad who was the centre of his life. Jason was also a grandson, nephew, cousin and friend to many. If you know something - say something. If you saw something - say something. If you are afraid - don't be. Do the right thing. Imagine your mother mourning your loss. Imagine your child having taken the life of another. Do something. Say something please. There is no worse cowardice than knowing the right thing to do and doing nothing. To those who were there - speak up. To those who weren't, but may know something - speak out. Jason can never be replaced and my heart can never be whole again. Do something to bring justice to a grieving mother and distraught family. If you loved your friend, if you miss him like I do every day, if your heart yearns to see him again every day like mine does, please come forward."
Police were called by London Ambulance Service at approx. 20:50hrs on Friday 21 November 2008 re: a man shot in an alleyway off Cavendish Avenue, W13.
Jason Johnson, 24 (16/9/84) of West Ealing was pronounced dead at the scene.
A post-mortem gave the cause of death as a gunshot wound to the chest. Detectives from Trident are investigating the murder.
Anyone with information should contact the incident room on 020 8733 4704 or if you wish to remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. 

Two found guilty of manslaughter of teenager in Abbey Wood
Bullying with an escalating level of physical violence
Today (18.11.09) two girls have been found guilty of manslaughter, after their violent and sustained bullying led to the death of Rosimeiri Boxall on the 17 May 2008. Oluwafemi Ajose, aged 19 (dob 10.08.90) of Coleraine Road, SE3 and Hatice CAN [15 ys - 17.8.94] of Dallin Road, SE18 were both found guilty of manslaughter at the Old Bailey and are due to be sentenced on the 15th December.
At approx. 18:30 on Saturday the 17th May 2008 police were called to 105 Coleraine Road SE3 to reports of a woman injured after falling from a third floor window. Rosimeiri [pronounced "Rosie-Meri"] Boxall [5.12.88 - 19 ys] of Thamesmead was found beneath an open window and had suffered serious injuries. She was taken by London Ambulance Service to Queen Elizabeth Hospital but was pronounced dead at 19:21. The investigation, led by Detective Inspector Bob Meade, from the Homicide and Serious Crime command for the Metropolitan police service, soon established that although no witnesses actually saw Rosimeiri fall to her death, the events that led to this moment and the actions of Ajose and Can directly contributed to her death.
Ajose and Can aged 17 and 13 respectively at the time of Rosi's death had been arguing over boys with each other. Ajose occupied Flat 7 Coleraine Road, which was a council property used for temporary housing. It is believed that Rosimeiri and Can stayed at this address on the night of the 16th May 2008. Leading up to Rosimeiri's death there were a number of incidents which amounted to bullying, with an escalating level of physical violence. On the 15 May 2008 the London Fire Brigade was called following a fire. Rosimeiri told her family that some other girls had set her trousers a light. The day after, all of the girls met up with some boys which later led to a fight that continued the campaign of abuse against Rosi.
During the 17 May 2008, the arguments over the boys continued between Ajose and Can fuelled by their intake of alcohol. Their assault upon Rosimeiri was filmed by a third party in the building on a mobile phone just 30 minutes before her death, where Ajose can be seen punching and kicking her and violently pulling her hair. It is also known that Ajose sprayed air freshener into Rosi's face. Throughout the attack despite both Ajose and Can abusing her, Rosimeiri never retaliated, only to say that she did not want to fight. Later on that day, another attack was witnessed by the mother of a resident where Can was heard to call Rosimeiri derogatory names before grabbing and ripping her clothes. This woman asked Rosi if she could take her home but for some reason she refused.
The woman was then shown the video of the earlier assault on her son's mobile phone. Fearing for the victim's safety, she ran up the stairs and banged on the door of Ajose's flat. She heard shouting and screaming from inside and then it went quiet. Ajose then flew out of the door and down the stairs, with Can following. Can then tried to prevent the woman entering the flat and came back inside the flat with her. The woman soon realised the flat was empty and that Rosi must have gone out of the window - Can declared 'she has escaped'. Rosi was found lying dying on the forecourt of the property. Can continued to hurl abuse in Rosi's direction whilst she lay dying and returned to the flat to pack a bag and attempted to flee the scene. She was prevented leaving by other witnesses at the scene. Emergency services attended but were unable to resuscitate Rosimeiri. She died of multiple injuries consistent with a fall from height.
Blood tests revealed that Rosi was not under the influence of alcohol or drugs when she died.
Both Ajose were arrested at the scene of Rosi's death on suspicion of attempted Murder, Ajose stating "I'm not going down for murder, I might have beaten her but I did not push her." On 29 April 2009 Ajose and Can were charged with the manslaughter of Rosimeiri Helena Boxall on the 17 May 2008.
Detective Inspector Bob Meade said:
"This was a long and legally complex police investigation and criminal trial. The evidence clearly indicates that Rosimeiri Boxall fell to her death whilst attempting to escape from a sustained episode of bullying consisting of threats, verbal abuse and physical assault. Miss Boxall made no attempt to fight back or defend herself. Ajose and Can have been found guilty of manslaughter and have therefore been held criminally responsible for Rosimeiri's death. Ajose and Can both claimed during the trial, that their actions were no more than 'high jinx' and a 'playground catfight'. Rosimeiri clearly did not perceive it that way, and neither did the jury.
To describe serious bullying in this way suggests that it is somehow acceptable and part of normal modern-day life. It is neither normal nor acceptable, and this case highlights the extent to which victims of bullying may go in order to escape their tormentors - sometimes with tragic consequences. Bullying needs to be taken seriously and I would urge the victims of bullying 'please don't just put up with it'. Please seek help from someone whom you feel confident to confide in, whether it is a relative, friend, teacher, the police, ChildLine, NSPCC or any of the several organisations available."

Statement by the Family of Rosimeiri Boxall:
“We want to thank the police for all the hard work that has been done in investigating the events surrounding the death of our daughter Rosi, on 17th May 2008, and for the support that has been given to us by different members of the police. Our thanks too, go to all the barristers, the judge and the members of the jury who have strived to ensure that justice is done.
Our prayer has always been that justice for Rosi would be seen to be done. We still miss her greatly, but we do not for an instant regret the decision we took when she was almost three, to adopt her. She has given us so many moments of pure joy, and we are thankful for those times. We are sure that she is now safe in God the Father's arms. No one can ever hurt her again. It will be wonderful to see her again one day.
We continue to pray for those who are responsible for Rosi's death. We want them to know that we forgive them. That does not mean that what they did 'doesn't matter'. Of course it does. A life is of such worth that only God can show us its value. Nor does it mean that we think this trial need not have taken place. For justice to be seen to be done, it had to happen and those responsible have to face up to the consequences of their choices.
Forgiveness means that we refuse to be shackled by bitterness and our prayer is that forgiveness will allow the girls to be released from the burden of what they have done, so that they can even now grow in to the sort of people that God intended them to be. Finally, we want to thank everyone who has supported us over the last 18 months or so. We would ask that you continue to pray for us, and for Rosimeiri's four brothers and their families. Thank you.”

Witnesses sought to murder in Camberwell
Neither man believed to have been intended target
Police are renewing their appeals for witnesses in connection with the murder of 19-year old Edvin Johnson. A Crimewatch reconstruction of Edvin's murder, including an emotional interview with his mother Genevieve, was broadcast on Thursday 12 November in the hope that it would encourage witnesses to come forward. Police are continuing to offer a £20,000 reward for information that leads to the identification, arrest and prosecution of those responsible.
Police were called at approx. 21:00hrs on Sunday 16 September 2007 to reports of a man suffering from stab wounds. Edvin was found in a stairwell at Barnet House on the Crawford Estate, SE5. London Ambulance Service attended and Edvin was taken to Kings College Hospital where he was pronounced dead as a result of a single stab wound to the groin. Investigations have revealed that a group of approx. 12 youths were on the estate at the time of the incident and it is believed that five of these youths attacked Edvin and another man. Neither man is believed to have been the intended target. Three knives were recovered during subsequent searches of the area. One of these had Edvin's blood on it. They are distinctive stainless steel knives that would have been part of kitchen sets and it is hoped that someone will recognise them.
DCI Andy Redwood of the Met's Homicide and Serious Crime Command, said:
"Two years on we are renewing appeals for witnesses to come forward. I specifically hope that the seven youths who were not part of the group that attacked Edvin, have the courage to come forward and speak out against the cowards who committed this offence. I would urge anyone with information, particularly anyone who remembers a knife going missing in September 2007 to contact the incident room on 020 7321 9251, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Any information we receive will be treated in confidence."

Fatal stabbing in Orpington
Officers investigating the murder of Moses Devall in Orpington on Saturday 31 October have arrested two men aged 29 and 21. They were arrested earlier today Monday 9 November and are currently in custody at a south London police station.
Police were called at 00:32hrs on Saturday 31 October to Swallowtail Close, Orpington to reports of a man suffering from a stab wound. Officers, London Ambulance Service and the Helicopter Emergency Medical Service attended and discovered a 36-year-old man suffering from a stab wound to the torso. He was pronounced dead at the scene. He has been formally identified as Moses Devall from Orpington. A post mortem held at the Princess Royal University Hospital on Sunday 1 November gave cause of death as a stab wound to the chest. Detectives from the Homicide and Serious Crime Command led by Det Ch Insp Simon Moring are investigating the incident. Police are keeping an open mind but believe that the murder is linked to an earlier disturbance at The Priory Tavern public house on Orpington High Street.
Anyone with any information regarding the murder or incident at the pub is asked to call the Incident Room on 020 8345 4142 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. 

Took advantage of his position to target girls
A man who abused his position of trust in the community to assault girls and young women has today (Monday 9th Nov) been found guilty of 16 counts of sexual activity with children over a period of 20 years. Jason Hoyte, 37, of the Bromley area, appeared for trial at the Inner London Crown Court on Tuesday 6 October charged with:
one count of sexual activity with a child (with penetration);
one count of sexual activity with a child (no penetration);
and 15 counts of indecent assault.
He was found not guilty of several other charges.
Sentencing will take on place on the 11th December at Inner London Crown Court.
It follows an investigation by the MPS Child Abuse Investigation Team based at Camberwell.
The court heard there were six victims and the incidents took place over a period of 20 years. The indecent assaults involved six victims aged between four and eight years old, dating back to the late 1980s and early 1990s. The sexual activity happened between January 2006 and January 2007 and relates to three victims aged 13 and 14 at the time. It started when Hoyte was a teenager. He carried on abusing girls until recently when in his mid 30s. In some instances he met the girls, none older than 13 or 14, through their families or various church communities. He would win their trust before abusing them, sometimes in their own homes.
More recently as a youth worker he took advantage of that position to target and groom girls for sexual abuse: inappropriate conversations, text messages and late night conversations.
Although concerns were raised early on, there was a general reluctance to take matters further because it seemed that his activities were isolated and confined to one or two girls; or because he promised to stop. On a number of occasions he was given the benefit of the doubt by parents or church leaders because no one knew the true nature and extent of his activities.
Matters came to a head last summer when Hoyte was invited to a celebration event at a church in Brixton which he had previously been banned from after a church leader found inappropriate messages from Hoyte on a young girl's mobile phone. Another girl saw Hoyte at the concert and was distressed. She told a member of the congregation that Hoyte had taken her virginity when she was 13. The police were informed immediately and an investigation was begun by officers from the Child Abuse Investigation Command based at Camberwell.
Initially the investigation centred around three girls that the church were aware had been close to Hoyte. Word of the investigation spread around the church community and a fourth victim emerged. He was then charged with offences against the four girls. Following the news of his court appearance, other women contacted police saying that they too had been abused by him. Police inquiries revealed a long catalogue of abuse on young girls by Hoyte, going back to the late 1980s.
Detective Sergeant Samantha Townsend said today: "Hoyte was every parent's nightmare - the family friend who appears respectable and trustworthy but turns out to be a fraud. He acted in an inappropriate manner with very young girls when he was a teenager and got away with it because the children mostly didn't complain at the time. Some of them were so young at the time, they did not realise until they were older that they had been sexually assaulted. In cases where children mentioned something to their parents, the full extent of abuse was not identified and adults were unsure of what to do. There was no proof and his behaviour was left unchallenged. As he grew older, Hoyte expected to continue getting away with it. His actions have had an enormous impact on the communities who welcomed him and saw him as one of their own. We must thank the young women who have finally realised that they were taken advantage of and have been brave enough to come forward and tell police about what happened to them." 

Teenage boy attacked in New Malden
Police are appealing for witnesses and information after a teenage boy was attacked in South-west London. Officers were called 0200 this morning 7/11 to Virginia Close, New Malden, after reports that several youths were being chased and subsequently beaten (punched and kicked) by another group of youths. One boy aged 14 was taken to a south-east London hospital with serious head injuries - he is currently in a stable condition. Two other boys, both aged 15, were treated for minor injuires and discharged from hospital.
The suspects are described as youths aged 14-18. All the suspects are described as black. The exact number of suspects is not known at this time but there are thought to be more than six.
CID at Kingston is investigating.
Anyone with any information is asked to call 02082474909, or Crimestoppers on 0800555111 if they wish to remain anonymous.

Fatal stabbing in Harlesden
A murder investigation continues after the fatal stabbing of a man in Harlesden. Officers were called at 17.09hrs on Thursday 5 November to reports of a man stabbed in Park Parade NW10. London Ambulance Service also attended and the man aged 20 ys was taken to a northwest London hospital where he was pronounced dead at 17.55hrs. The victim is 20 year old, Anthony Junior Parkes of the Harlesden area. A post-mortem took place at Northwick Park Hospital on Friday 6th November and gave the cause of death as blood loss following a stab wound to the leg. An incident room has opened under DCI Tony Nash (HSCC)
Anyone with information is asked to contact the incident room on 020 8358 0100; if you wish to remain anonymous please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. 

Fatal “brutal and senseless attack” in Thamesmead
Police investigating the murder of 22 year old man in Thamesmead are appealing for any witnesses or information around five suspects. Moses Nteyoho was stabbed at about 21.30 hrs on Friday 30 October near to the Tilehurst Point flats on the Tavy Bridge estate, SE2.
London Ambulance Service attended but he was pronounced dead at the scene at 2203 hrs.
A post mortem examination at the Princess Royal Hospital, Farnborough, gave the cause of death as a stab wound to the heart. The death is being investigated by officers from the Homicide and Serious Crime Command.
A/DCI Brian Mather said they are appealing for any information about five young men who were on the estate that evening. He said: "Moses and a friend were on their way to a local youth project which provides social and educational support for young people when they saw a group of five or so young men running towards them. Although his friend managed to get away, the group caught up with Moses and attacked him leaving him with stab wounds as they ran off in the direction of the car park underneath the parade of shops. I want to hear from anyone who may have seen this group. They are described as black, aged in their late teens or early 20s, wearing dark, casual clothing with hoods and/or clothing to obscure their faces. It's possible they had been elsewhere on the estate that night. Were you in the area and did you see or hear anything suspicious that evening? I have no reason to believe that Moses was involved in a gang. I don't believe he knew his attackers. But at this early stage, I am keeping an open mind as to the motive for this brutal and senseless attack."
Anyone with any information is asked to call the incident room on 020 8345 3734 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 to remain anonymous. 

Teenagers shot in Hackney
Detectives from Trident are appealing for information and witnesses after three teenagers were shot in Hackney Borough. Police were alerted at 20.46hrs on Monday 26 October by the London Ambulance Service re: an injured youth [Victim 1 - 15 ys] found in Howard Road, Stoke Newington N16.  He was taken to a London hospital where his condition is understood to be in stable. Two other youths [Victims 2 and 3 - both 14 ys] were found injured in nearby streets and were also taken to hospital. Victim 2 remains there in a stable condition; Victim 3 has since been discharged. Police understand the three had been outside the Resource Centre (a community centre), Howard Rd when a masked and hooded group (not known how many) approached and at least one of them opened fire.
Anyone with information is asked to call Trident on 020 8217 7377. To remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Sentenced for murder in Thornton Heath of man on way with his daughter to visit new-born son

Charles Acquaah, (dob 3/12/86) - aged 22, of Greenside Road, Croydon, was today, Friday 2 October, sentenced at the Old Bailey to serve at least 15 years in prison for the murder of John Abbey. He was found guilty on 1 October following a two week trial. Acquaah stabbed Mr Abbey, known as King, in London Road, Thornton Heath, where he was waiting for a bus with his three-year old daughter Layla. They were on their way to the Mayday hospital in Croydon to visit his new born son. Mr Abbey, 26, later died at the Mayday hospital, where his son had been born earlier that day.
A man was found guilty today of stabbing a father to death in front of his three-year-old daughter, as they went to visit his new born son. John Abbey, known as King, and his daughter Layla were on their way to the Mayday hospital in Croydon, when his former friend Charles Acquaah stabbed him in the heart at a bus stop. Mr Abbey, 26, later died at the Mayday hospital, where his son had been born earlier that day. Acquaah, 22 of Greenside Road, Croydon, had denied murder, but was convicted on 1st October 2009 by a jury at the Old Bailey.
Mr Brian Altman QC, prosecuting had told the court how an argument developed between the two men, when Acquaah chanced upon King at the bus stop in London Road, Croydon, in the early evening of Thursday 29 January 2009. While King was trying to repel Acquaah, the defendant became increasingly aggressive and used the knife he was armed with to stab King in the chest. Acquaah had claimed he acted in self defence, but Mr Altman QC said King had struck no blows and there was no evidence from any of the independent witnesses that King had 'gone' for Acquaah, as the defendant later claimed to police. It was "plain murder" said Mr Altman QC. The two men had been friends, but had fallen out over money and Acquaah had made threats to kill King in the months before the murder.
DCI Cliff Lyons, who led the murder investigation, said today:
"This is a sad and shocking case that saw John Abbey known as King, a young boxing champion, murdered as a result of a single stab wound to the heart at a bus stop in Croydon by a heartless and spiteful former associate."
Only moments before his death, King was seen by witnesses and was captured on CCTV images holding the hand of his daughter, who was just three years old at the time.
"That little girl is left with the memory of her father being murdered in front of her eyes. She has been able to recall those awful events, has nightmares and asks for her daddy every day. Even more tragic is that King was with his daughter, visiting his son, who was born on the very day his father was murdered. If matters could get any worse, King also leaves behind three other children under the age of six and in a further twist of fate, his partner Emma is carrying his unborn son whose birth is imminent. The lives of those children, their mothers and King's loved ones will feel the lasting consequences of the actions of this callous murder. This case highlights the devastating and far reaching consequences that knife crime has on families and communities. The carrying of a knife is beyond my comprehension. I congratulate the Serious Crime Directorate investigation team at Lewisham for their professionalism and dedication and thank officers at Sutton, Barking and Croydon for their support. I should also like to thank Brian Altman QC, who did a superb job in articulating the presentation of the evidence in this case. But the biggest thanks from me and on behalf of the family must go to the public. There were many witnesses who provided valuable information and testimony to the various parts of this investigation and it is largely due to them that King's loved ones have seen justice done. I hope today's verdict in some small way helps them”
Natra Abokar said:  “King was a good man and friendly to everyone he met. I loved him and always will. King only ever got to see his baby son Adam King once before he died. He always wanted a son but now he won't get to see him grow up. It will be difficult for me and Adam to celebrate his birthday because this is also the day that King was murdered. My daughter Layla had to watch her Daddy, who was her best friend, killed in front of her. She is still having nightmares and asks for her Daddy everyday. I am struggling to come to terms with my life without King and cope with two children on my own, but I know that I have to carry on for my kids' sake. I know that nothing can bring King back, but I'm glad that I have seen the man responsible for his death, in the court. I would like to say thank you to the police and thank you to my Family Liaison Officer for supporting me since January and for doing such a good job. I would like to thank the Victim Support Service and all the members of the public who have been so kind and thoughtful”.
Emma Abbott said: “I am pleased that justice has been done and Charles William Acquaah has been found guilty of the murder of my fiance and father of our two children and our baby that is due any day. As I am heavily pregnant and have not been able to go to court, I am pleased that my parents have been able to listen to the evidence and see justice done. The impact of what has gone on since since the 29th January has really destroyed all of our lives including my mum and dad. I can't even begin to say how this has made me feel in my heart. My heart is absolutely broken especially when I look at my children growing and developing each day and how King would have been such a good husband and father. This should be a lesson to everybody not to carry guns and knives, as it is the families that are left behind that are most affected for the rest of our lives”.

Young women warned of consequences of storing and transporting guns
Case studies

YOUNG women are being warned about the grave consequences of storing and transporting guns for others in a hard-hitting advertising campaign unveiled by Trident, the Metropolitan Police's anti-shooting unit, today (30 September 2009).
Under the strap line "Hide his gun and you help commit the crime" the campaign features radio, cinema and billboard advertisements aimed at 15 to 19 year old young women of African and African Caribbean heritage.
The campaign - which will target the six priority boroughs of Brent, Hackney, Haringey, Lambeth, Lewisham and Southwark - is a response to a recent rise in the number of young women being arrested and convicted for possessing weapons.
Most recently, on 5 September, a 16-year-old girl from south east London was charged with one count of possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life and one of supplying a firearm. She was arrested after Trident officers found a 9mm Browning self loading pistol loaded with one round in her bedroom.
The campaign will run for four weeks and has been planned in consultation with the Trident Independent Advisory Group, which plays a vital role in helping Trident combat gun crime that is disproportionately affecting the capital's black communities.
Claudia Webbe, chair of Trident's Independent Advisory Group, said:
"Sadly, young women have always been involved in carrying and storing firearms. We are deeply concerned, however, that this involvement seems to be increasing and those who are involved seem to be younger and younger. Vulnerable young women are sometimes pressurised into storing or transporting the weapons by men they know, or sometimes willingly do so. The consequences of this for the young women themselves are devastating. It is vital that we act now to prevent more young women becoming involved in carrying and storing firearms. Our role is to protect, engage and support young women to avoid the dangers of violent crime."
Between January 1, 2004 and August 31, 2009 a total of 46 women and girls were charged with possession of a firearm. So far this calendar year Trident cases have led to a total of 12 women charged with possession of a firearm. Of these 12, seven are teenagers. In comparison in 2008 there were 13 women, compared to only two in 2007.
Detective Chief Superintendent Helen Ball, head of Trident, said:
"This year's campaign has been designed to tackle an emerging and concerning trend. In the past few months Trident has seen an increase in the number of arrests and convictions of young women for the possession of firearms. Those who store and carry guns for others are partly responsible for the crimes committed with those weapons. The consequences for them, their families and their friends are not worth thinking about. Many of them believe that if they are caught with a firearm they will not be prosecuted for possession because 'clearly' it is not their gun. They are wrong. If found guilty of gun possession, they will face a prison sentence, regardless of their sex. This campaign drives home the simple message that those who store weapons for others are committing a crime, as well as helping others to commit theirs."
Crimestoppers features throughout the campaign. Anyone with information about gun crime should contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111. Crimestoppers is an independent charity that guarantees anonymity.
Boris Johnson, the Mayor of London said:
"Gun crime is a serious issue that has blighted the lives of far too many people in London, and we are working tirelessly to confront it. Anyone who carries or conceals a firearm needs to realise that this is not something to be taken lightly, because the consequences can be fatal. Our message is simple- carrying or concealing a weapon on behalf of somebody else is a crime, and if you are caught you will be prosecuted."
Case study 1
Name: Dion Douglas
Age: 25 (DOB 27/8/84)
From: Neasden, Brent
Charge/sentence details:
· Arrested 19 February, 2009 for possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life.
· Pleaded guilty and was sentenced to five years on 10 July 2009 Harrow Crown Court
· Currently in prison
Case details:
On 19 February 2009 at 21.30 police stopped a mini cab in Neasden. Douglas as sitting in the rear passenger seat. She had just left a nearby address carrying a blue rucksack.
When police stopped the cab this rucksack was found underneath Douglas' legs.
When they searched the rucksack officers found:
- A leather wash bag containing a 9mm self-loading pistol complete with a loaded magazine along with a silencer and silencer attachment.
- A 7.65mm Browning FN self-loading pistol (1910 model) with a loaded magazine that was wrapped in a red bandana.
- A box containing 50 live Luger rounds
- Six separate live rounds wrapped in a white bandana
- Two further ammunition boxes containing 36 and 50 live rounds.
Douglas was arrested for possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life and cautioned.
Douglas was later charged with possession of a firearm with intent to commit an indictable offence x 2 and possession of a loaded firearm and suitable ammunition in a public place.
Douglas was carrying the weapons for her then boyfriend, Daniel Parara, who is currently serving a prison sentence at Wormwood Scrubs.
Case study 2
Name: Jodie Cousins
Age: 20 (DOB 15/7/89) - 19 at time of offence
From: Cricklewood, Brent
Charge/sentence details:
· Charged on 17 February 2009, with possession of a firearm
· Sentenced to two years for possession of a firearm on August 28, 2009 after pleading guilty at the Old Bailey to possession of a prohibited weapon.
Weapon: A converted 9mm blank firing Olympic revolver
Case details:
Jodie Cousins stashed the 9mm revolver under the floorboards of her bedroom after being 'lent on' by an unnamed male associate to look after it. The weapon was found wrapped in several carrier bags when police executed a search warrant at her home in Cricklewood, north-west London on 12 September last year. Cousins was linked to the firearm after her prints were found on one of the bags in which it had been wrapped.
The court heard she had been 'coerced' in to keeping the weapon by a man who she has refused to name.
Cousins, who had hoped to train as a care worker, was described as an 'upstanding young woman' who had been expected to 'make a positive contribution to the community and society at large'.
According to the defence, following her arrest she had received further threats from the male associate who had warned her not to mention his name.
Case Study 3
Name: Tiffiny Campbell
Age: 20 (DOB 12/9/89) - 19 at time of offence
From: Hornsey, Haringey
Charge/sentence details:
· Arrested and charged 17 February 2009 for possession of a firearm and ammunition
· Sentenced to 12 months at Wood Green Crown on 3/7/09
Weapon: Smith and Wesson .38 revolver with five cases of ammunition loaded
Case details: On 17 February 2009 officers executed a search warrant at a flat owned by Tiffiny Campbell, who was present at the time.
A systematic search of the flat was conducted and, in a drawer in a cupboard in the lounge, a carrier bag was discovered containing a firearm. Campbell was then arrested for possession of this firearm and upon further inspection, it was found to be a Smith and Wesson revolver with five cases of ammunition loaded into the cylinder.
In interview, Campbell at first denied knowledge of the firearm, saying she did not know it was there and that it must have been there since she moved into the flat two months ago. It was pointed out to her that the bag containing the firearm was not hidden and was stored with a computer monitor that she had already admitted she had put in the cupboard.
Campbell then stated that she had put the firearm there. She had received it in the early hours of Monday 16 February 2009 from a man she knows only by this first name. She said that she had only met him a couple of times outside the Tribal nightclub in Stratford, East London. She claimed she did not look inside the bag and did not know it was a firearm.
Case Study 4
Name: Kirsty Serwaah-Parker
Age: 18 (DOB 5/11/90)
From: Peckham, Southwark
Charge/sentence details:
· Arrested 17 December 2008 for possession of a firearm
· Sentenced to two and a half years at Inner London Crown Court in April 2009
Weapon: Shotgun
Case details: On Wednesday 17 December 2008 at 18.30, police from Trident executed a search warrant at the address where Kirsty Serwaah-Parker lived with her mother. At the time of entry the flat was unoccupied, however on searching Parker's bedroom a shotgun was found inside a rucksack on the floor. The shotgun had two spent cartridges within. Parker returned to the address whilst the police were still present and was arrested for possession of a firearm.
Later in interview she claimed it had been given to her by a member of a Peckham street gang. It had been taken out and then brought back to her on at least one occasion. She was fully aware it was a gun but insisted she did not know if it was loaded. Parker claimed she was naive, susceptible and impressionable and that the members of street gangs whom she knew played on this.
At Inner London Crown Court in April 2009 she pleaded guilty to possession of the firearm and was given a two-and-a-half-year prison sentence.
Case study 5
Name: Machaela McKenzie
Age: 19 (DOB 30/7/90)
From: Peckham, Southwark
Charge/sentence details:
· Arrested on 22 June 2009 for possession of a loaded machine gun with intent to endanger life
· Sentenced to two and a half years at Inner London Crown on 23 September 2009
Weapon: Mac 10 machine gun with six live rounds loaded
Case details:
Machaela McKenzie was stopped by armed officers on 22 June in East Dulwich Road.
A shoulder bag she was carrying was found to contain a loaded Mac 10 machine gun. The clip was attached and contained six live rounds. She was arrested and claimed it was not her gun but that she had been asked to carry it by someone else.
McKenzie appeared at the Inner London Crown Court in August 2009 and pleaded guilty to possession of the loaded machine gun with intent to endanger life. She was sentenced to two and a half years.
Case Study 6
Name: Unavailable as juvenile
Age: 15 at time of offence
From: Brixton, Lambeth
Charge/sentence details:
· Arrested on 21 November 2008 for possession of a prohibited weapon contrary to Section 5(1) of the Firearms Act 1968.
· Sentenced on 8 July 2009 at Balham Youth Court to a 12-month supervision order with a three-month Intensive Supervision and Surveillance Programme (ISSP) curfew order with electronic tagging.
Weapon: A converted 9mm blank firing Olympic revolver
Case details: On 21 November 2008 officers from Trident executed a search warrant at an address in SW9. The search of the house resulted in a firearm being found in a top floor bedroom. The handgun was found broken down into its component parts in a green plastic bag sitting on top of a suitcase in a bedroom belonging to the 15-year-old. The girl was seen by officers boarding a bus near to her home address soon afterwards. She was stopped, arrested and taken into custody. In interview she stated that she had taken possession of the firearm under duress from a male who had threatened to stab her if she did not.
Following further interviews she was charged with possession of a prohibited weapon contrary to Section 5(1) of the Firearms Act 1968. Her trial was held on 29 June at Balham Youth Court when she pleaded not guilty. She was found guilty and sentenced on 8 July.
Case study 7
Name: Not available as juvenile at time of offence
Age: now 19 but 17 at time of offence
From: Balham, Wandsworth
Charge/sentence details:
· Arrested 17 July 2008 for possession of a firearm
· Sentenced to three years at Inner London Crown Court on 29 July 2009
Weapon: pistol
Case details: On Thursday 17 July 2008 officers executed a search warrant issued under the Firearms Act. On arrival the front door was answered by the 17 year old girl, and when asked if there were any firearms in the flat she pointed officers towards a tea towel wrapped around a pistol. She was arrested for possession of a firearm and told officers she was looking after it for some boys, and admitted she was aware it was a gun. She also insisted she had not been forced to take the weapon. Following her arrest her baby son was taken into the care of other family members.

Sentenced to life for murder in shop doorway at Camberwell

A 20-year-old man has today, Tuesday 29 September, been sentenced to life in prison, to serve a minimum of 32-years. Ashley Bucknor, unemployed of no fixed address had been found guilty of murdering teenager Ryan Bravo in the doorway of a shop in Camberwell Road in August 2008 following a two-week trial at Woolwich Crown Court. It follows an investigation by the Trident specialist shootings team.
The court heard that Ryan, 18, was with two brothers and a cousin in the Camberwell Road at around 21.30 hours. They had spent the afternoon at a family address in Peckham and were making their way back home to Lambeth. They decided to go into the Costcutter's store for milk and as they went into the shop, two young men pushed past them. A few seconds later, shots rang out. Everyone ran for cover and when the shooting ended, Ryan could be seen on the ground, in the shop doorway. He had been shot in the back and was pronounced dead at the scene. Up to five male suspects drove away on three mopeds in the direction of Boyson Road. A few minutes later, officers from the Territorial Support Group were on patrol in Kennington when they saw a young man walking and carrying two motorcycle helmets. They found this suspicious and called him to stop but he ran off, discarding the helmets. They caught up with him and found he was wearing purple latex gloves. He was carrying a bag in which officers found a handgun wrapped in a sock with an empty case jammed in its breech. The man was Bucknor and the firearm was shown to have been used during the murder although it did not fire the shot that killed Ryan Bravo. An investigation was set up by Trident. A number of other arrests were made in the weeks after the murder. Eight of those arrested remain bailed to return over the recovery of a firearm connected to the murder. Today DI Tim Carter of Trident said: "Bucknor was part of a group who went out with firearms that night and targeted two young men as part of retaliation for an incident earlier in the day in Lambeth. It was still daylight, a warm evening in August in one of the busiest streets in London. They paid no regard to any innocent members of the public. One bike even mounted the pavement and a witness described how he pushed his wife to one side for fear she would be mown down. Ryan was from a close-knit family that had been enjoying an evening together. He was no gang member. He was expected to start a university course soon and was generally known as a good lad. We remain committed to finding all those who were involved and invite anyone with any information to get in touch."Eight men and one woman are bailed to return on 16 October in connection with various related offences (eight in relation to the recovery of a firearm).

Brothers sentenced for armed robberies in London and Hertfordshire

Two brothers who embarked on a spree of armed robberies across London and Hertfordshire have been imprisoned for a total of 12 years.  Nelson Muzinga, aged 23 and his teenage brother Ivo Muzinga, aged 18, were sentenced today 2/10 at Wood Green Crown Court on 2/10/09. Nelson was sentenced to 6 years imprisonment. Ivo was also sentenced to 6 years imprisonment. The brothers robbed a total of 11 bookmakers in and around north London and Hertfordshire before being arrested as part of a meticulously planned operation by the Met's Flying Squad. The pair, from Moree Way, Edmonton, N18, raided the numerous premises wielding firearms with their faces covered. Along with an unidentified man, threats were made to shop staff and handguns pointed at victims before they fled with large sums of cash.
The severity and frequency of the offences led to a high-profile Flying Squad operation, codenamed Catchwater, and the brothers were arrested by a team of detectives on 18/6/09. They appeared at Wood Green Crown Court on 21/8/09 where they pleaded guilty to four counts of robbery, two counts of attempted robbery and five counts of possessing a firearm or imitation firearm with intent to commit robbery. Previously, Nelson Muzinga asked for a further three counts of robbery to be taken into account and three counts of possessing an imitation firearm with intent to rob. Ivo Muzinga asked for a further five counts of robbery to be taken into account and five further counts of possessing an imitation firearm with intent to rob.
Detective Inspector David Malcolm, who investigated the case from the Flying Squad based at Finchley, said: "The Muzinga brothers terrified the staff and customers they encountered as they raided bookmakers with handguns. The weapons were often pointed straight at the victims to ensure the maximum amount of money was handed over. Robberies of this nature are a priority for the Flying Squad and the conviction of these men demonstrates the Met's continued commitment to bringing such dangerous criminals to justice. We continue to appeal for information regarding a third suspect who we believe was involved in a number of the robberies. The man is described as white, of slim build, 5'10", in his late teens to early twenties."
Anyone with information is asked to contact The Flying Squad on 020 8358 1751 or, to remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Surrendered in Nigeria to charge of murder in North London

John-Paul Oboh, aged 24, (29.4.85), of Garden House, Central Avenue, East Finchley, N2, appeared at Hendon Magistrates' Court on 30 September 2009 charged with the murder of Colin Browne in N2 in 12 April 2006 and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life.
He has been remanded in custody to appear at the Old Bailey on 14 October for a pre-trial hearing. Oboh surrendered himself to the British Deputy High Commission (BDHC) in Lagos, Nigeria, on 23 September, and voluntarily returned to the United Kingdom on 29 September where he was arrested on arrival.

Robbery at jeweller’s in Enfield

Police are appealing for witnesses and information following a robbery at a jeweller’s in Enfield Town. Officers were called at approximately 13.45 on Tuesday 22 September to reports of an incident at Ernest Jones, Church Street, Enfield. It is understood that five men wearing balaclavas and scarves entered the store armed with a crow bar and smashed the internal window display at the front of the shop, removing 15-20 Rolex watches. The suspects were seen by two security guards at Palace Gardens Shopping Centre to flee the premises, before then making off at speed in two vehicles - a dark coloured Audi and a grey BMW. A short time later the two cars were in collision with a third vehicle on the A10 at Great Cambridge Road, Enfield. No one was injured. We believe that as a result of the collision the Audi was blocked in. The suspects then all got into the BMW - which continued off towards Lancaster Road. The suspects are believed to be of both white and black ethnicities.
Officers from Barking Flying Squad are investigating. Anyone with information is asked to contact them on 020 7230 2061. To remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

22 year-old woman missing in Ealing / Shepherd’s Bush

Police in Ealing are appealing for information following the disappearance of 22 year old Natalie Williamson. She was last seen on 6 September in Northolt as she travelled to visit her friends in the Shepherds Bush area. Natalie is described as Afro-caribbean with a light-skinned complexion, approximately 5ft 6ins tall of medium build.
If you have any information regarding Natalie's whereabouts, please contact Ealing Missing Persons Unit on 0208 246 1040.

Cash-in-transit robbery in Hayes
Whereabouts of the Peugeot or its occupants?

Police are appealing for witnesses and information following a cash-in-transit robbery in Hayes on Tuesday 21 July 2009. At approx 10.45am police were called to reports of a robbery outside the NatWest bank in Coldharbour Lane. A guard was carrying a cashbox from the van to the bank when two suspects approached him and assaulted him. They then grabbed the cash box before running off towards East Avenue. It is believed the men then got into a blue Peugeot car in East Avenue which was driven away by a third man who had been waiting inside.
Suspect one is described as a black man, approximately 6ft 3in tall and aged between 20-25 years. He was wearing a dark blue or black hooded top and dark trousers with a white star emblem on the rear left pocket.
Suspect two is described as a black man, approximately 5ft 9in tall and aged approximately 20 years. He was wearing a dark hooded top with possibly a red top underneath and dark trousers.
There is currently no description for suspect three.
DI Garry Stokes from Barnes Flying Squad said:
“This robbery took place in a busy street at a busy time of the day. We have already spoken to a lot of witnesses but if anyone has information, particularly around the whereabouts of the Peugeot and its occupants prior to, or following, the robbery I would ask them to contact police.”
Anyone with information is asked to call the incident room on 020 8247 7949 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. 

Refined stop and search tactics
Remains an important tactic in counter-terrorism

Refined tactics in the use of stop and search under the Terrorism Act 2000 have been introduced across the Met. From today [Monday 20th July] Section 44 powers will only be deployed at pre-identified significant locations, such as iconic sites and crowded places, and when specific operations have been agreed for specific areas. Officers continue to have full discretion to stop any individual they have reasonable suspicion to suggest may be involved in terrorist related activity under Section 43 of the Terrorism Act 2000. The launch builds on a review to ensure the tactics remain as effective as possible and a pilot of the refined tactics in four boroughs.
Commander Simon Bray, from Territorial Policing, said: "Stop and search under the Terrorism Act 2000 remains an important tactic in our counter terrorism strategy. It can disrupt and deter terrorist activity by creating a hostile environment for terrorists as well as providing visible reassurance to the public. Our review of Section 44 and the tactics being launched today are designed to ensure we continue to protect Londoners while addressing the concerns that have been raised. We understand being stopped by police may cause an inconvenience. But it is our duty to protect the public and their patience and co-operation will certainly help keep London safe."
Officers from every borough today attended a Met-wide briefing outlining how the tactics will work and how it was successfully deployed in the pilot areas. Each borough will now identify the sites where Section 44 can be deployed and continue to brief and support officers through the process. As with any operational tactic, the use of Section 44 has been subject to regular analysis and evaluation in order to keep it as effective as possible. The pilot was part of the most recent review looking at how S44 was being used across the Met, which also took into account new operational guidance from the National Police Improvement Agency.
The Met also consulted with the MPA, Liberty, The Muslim Safety Forum, The Community Monitoring Network, the City of London police and the British Transport Police amongst others. Southwark, Brent, Tower Hamlets and Newham began a three-month trial of the new tactics, involving a more targeted use of S44, on 20 April.

Life sentences for barber-shop murder in Harlesden
A grudge for 6 years waiting for an opportunity to strike

The second of two men convicted of the murder a man in a barbers shop in Harlesden has been sentenced to life imprisonment at the Old Bailey this morning, Wednesday 15 July. Richard Osborne, 27 (27/2/82) of Larix Court, Harlesden Rd, NW10 had been convicted on Monday 13 July alongside Femi Forde, 25 (9/7/84) of 57 Harlesden Gardens, NW10 for the murder of Wayne Freckleton in Acton Lane, NW10 on 25 April 2008. Both were given life sentences, Forde on Monday 13 July, and both are to serve a minimum of 30 years.Detective Inspector Kenny McDonald from Trident, said upon conviction: "These individuals had a blind disregard for innocent people when Wayne Freckleton was shot in the middle of the afternoon in a busy barbers shop. This is believed to be a revenge shooting for an incident in 2002. These two men have held a grudge for 6 years waiting for an opportunity to strike. This all seems to have stemmed from gang rivalry and 'respect'. No one benefits from this mindless violence which only leaves heartache and distress for the families involved".
At approximately 13:30hrs on 25 April 2008 police were called regarding a shooting in Ike's barber shop in Acton Lane, NW10. On arrival officers found Wayne Freckleton dead inside the shop. A post-mortem examination gave cause of death as a gunshot wound to the head. Wayne had been shot twice, once in the shoulder and once in the head. Although not a customer at the barber's, Wayne had accompanied his cousin.
Femi Forde contacted Richard Osborne and both men attempted to get a cab to the location but were unable to do so. As a last resort they managed to get Aaron Bernard, who was initially unaware of the reason why Forde and Osborne wanted him to drive them, to agree to drive both men in his silver Toyota Yaris. Bernard parked the car in nearby Fairlight Avenue and both Forde and Osborne went straight to Ike's barbers shop. Forde, wearing a bandana and hood, and Osborne a hood both entered the premises. Forde went up to Wayne and shot him twice at close range. Osborne is also alleged to have fired shots as well. Both men ran back to the car and instructed Bernard to drive the car telling him that they had just shot 'Bandz' (street name of Wayne Freckleton). Trident officers were able to identify the car and driver from CCTV and Aaron Bernard was arrested on 17 October 2008. He was charged on 7 November 2008 with assisting an offender.
Forde and Osborne were identified as being present through description and were named by Bernard. Ford was arrested on 14 November 2008 and charged on 30 January 2009. Armed officers from Essex Police acting on behalf of the MPS arrested Osborne on 1 May 2008 following a pre-planned operation. He was subsequently charged as above. Aaron Bernard, 26 (8/9/82) pleaded guilty on 2 June 2009 at the Old Bailey to assisting an offender. He was jailed for 18 months on 5 June. He subsequently gave evidence against the Forde and Osborne.

Six sentenced for murder of Shaquille Smith
Their motives were indiscriminate

Six gang members have today (9.7.09) been sentenced at the Old Bailey to a minimum of 96 years imprisonment following the unprovoked murder of 14-year-old Shaquille Smith on 31.8.08. The six had previously been convicted at the same court on 9.6.09 for killing the teenager just yards from his Hackney home.
Those sentenced are:
Godiowe Dufeal, 20-years-old (date of birth 10.10.88) of Well St., E9 to serve a minimum of 18 years.
Leon Atwell, 17-years-old (date of birth 2.12.91) of Duncan Road E8 to serve a minimum of 15 years.
George Amponsah, 19-years-old (date of birth 7.6.90) of Flat B, 28 Greenwood Rd, E8 to serve a minimum of 18 years.
Kadean Dias, 18-years-old (date of birth 4.7.91) of Dublin Avenue E8 to serve a minimum of 15 years.
Freddie Amponsah, 17-years-old (date of birth 5.7.92) of Greenwood Road E8 to serve a minimum of 15 years.
Amisi Khama, 18-year-old (date of birth 10.2.91) of Grand Union Crescent E8 to serve a minimum of 15 years.
Senior Investigating Officer Detective Chief Inspector Carl Mehta, of the Homicide and Serious Crime Command (HSCC) said: "Shaquille was a totally innocent young boy with no connection to any gang.
"Those who knew him describe him as a 'kind, caring and considerate' boy and an excellent sportsman who had a great future ahead of him. The defendants involved in Shaquille's murder are 'gang' members who can never understand the huge amount of harm and grief they cause to families and communities by the mindless violence they inflict on others. Their motives were indiscriminate as they rode around on their bicycles that night, looking for someone to beat up. After the attack they cycled away from the scene and then over the next few days, concocted lies to either give themselves an alibi, or distance themselves from what they had done. Gang violence and the carrying and using of knives is abhorrent to the significant majority of people who live and work in Hackney and this case demonstrates that together with the community, we will continue to deal robustly with those who possess and use them. I would like to pay tribute to the bravery of Shaquille's family who throughout this terrible ordeal, have acted with such dignity and courage. I would also like to thank the community of Hackney, many of whom came forward and gave evidence or information about this murder. Without their help, we would not be here today. I also thank my investigation team, who have worked tirelessly over the past months to identify and bring Shaquille's killers to justice."

Family appeal for witnesses following murder in 2007 in Camberwell
Police announce a £20,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction.

Almost two years after the fatal shooting of 41-year old Moses Ssendawula in Camberwell, SE5, his family are renewing an appeal for anyone with information to contact police. Moses rarely took public transport, preferring to walk. At approx 00:55hrs on Saturday 8 September 2007, he was making his way through Burgess Park close to the entrance at St Georges Way when he was shot. He was pronounced dead at the scene. A post-mortem examination gave cause of death as a gunshot wound to the back, which penetrated his heart and lung. There was also an additional gunshot wound to the shoulder. At the time of his death, Moses was wearing a blue checked shirt, black trousers and a light coloured woollen hat.
Tony Ntege, Moses's cousin, said: "Moses was my cousin, we were very close. He was also my friend, someone who you could easily speak to if you had a problem, whether it was good or bad. You would happily talk to him. He was always there with an answer and one that you wanted to hear - he kept you smiling. He loved children. He cared for and entertained young people. Moses dedicated his life to steering teenagers away from crime. He was a very caring person, so I find it very hard to think that someone would shoot him. There are lots of questions that are left unanswered. Why would anyone want to kill a man who spent his time doing so much good? I would appeal to anyone with information, or who has heard about this murder, to please call the police so we can put our minds at peace."
Detective Chief Inspector Gordon Allison from Trident, said: "We remain committed to finding Moses's murderer. We have explored a number of lines of enquiry and hope that today's appeal will encourage more people to come forward. Burgess Park is an area that is used by the public all times of the day and I believe that there were people there on the night of Saturday 8 September 2007 who have not come forward. I would like to take this opportunity to ask them to contact police as they may have some information that helps us to solve this terrible crime. I would like to reassure anyone who calls us that we will handle their information in confidence and that we have systems in place to protect their identity."
Detectives have explored a number of lines of enquiry and hope that this appeal will encourage more people to come forward.
Anyone with information should contact the Incident Room on 020 8247 4554; if you wish to remain anonymous please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Joseph and McLean walk away after the fatal attack

“Honey trap” 16 year-old girl and six youths guilty of murder in Thornton Heath
“Knowingly and callously led him to his death” – are you setting him up? – “Yes”

A 16-year-old girl (15 at the time), who acted as a 'honey trap' to lure a boy to his death at the hands of a group of youths, was found guilty of murder today. The group of six youths were also convicted of the murder of Shakilus Townsend, 16, by a jury at the Old Bailey and will be sentenced at a later date.
Daniel McLean, 18, and his former girlfriend Samantha Joseph, 16, orchestrated the plot to lure Joseph's new boyfriend, Shakilus to a cul-de-sac in Thornton Heath, south London so the gang could attack him.
Shakilus had begun going out with Joseph in May last year, shortly after she had split up with McLean following an 18-month relationship. Joseph had initially described Shakilus as her cousin to keep the relationship under wraps, but in June McLean found out. Angered by the revelation and also aware that Shakilus had been involved in a fight with his friend Andre Thompson, McLean conspired with Joseph to attack him. Shakilus travelled with Joseph to Thornton Heath on July 3, unaware she was in contact with McLean and organising the attack along the way. When they reached Beulah Crescent at around 13.45, McLean and his gang ambushed Shakilus. They were armed with knives and a baseball bat and Shakilus suffered a number of serious injuries, including a fatal stab wound to his liver.
Detective Inspector Barney Ratcliffe, of the Homicide and Serious Crime Command investigation, said:
"This is an absolutely tragic case, where a young boy has been viciously attacked simply for liking the wrong girl. Even though she knew her relationship with Shakilus was putting him in danger, Samantha Joseph carried on and when the point of no return arrived she knowingly and callously led him to his death. The level of deception, cunning and co-ordination used to lure Shakilus to his death, illustrates the determination of all those involved. After the attack Joseph and McLean calmly walked away, even stopping in a nearby shop to seek medical help for a head injury he had suffered during the incident. These convictions are testimony to the quality of this investigation into what was a complex scenario. It should also serve as a warning to all those who associate with violent individuals, that even if you are not directly party to an attack, if you know and conspire with others, we can and will prosecute you."
The seven, who apart from one, were all 17 or under at the time of the attack had all denied murder, but were found guilty today following a three month trial at the Old Bailey. They are:
Tyrell Ellis [12.1.90 - aged 19] of Springfield Road, Thornton Heath;
Don-Carlos Ellis [21.6.91 - aged 18] of Springfield Road, Thornton Heath;
Andre Thompson [5.4.92 - aged 17] of Alexandra Place, South Norwood;
Samantha Joseph [28.7.92 - aged 16] of Brockley Road, Brockley, SE4;
Michael Akinfenwa [17.7.91 - aged 17] of Hermitage Road, Upper Norwood, SE19;
Daniel McLean [3.11.90 - aged 18] of Woodville Road, Thornton Heath;
Andre Johnson-Haynes [24.11.90 - aged 18] of Goodman Crescent, Croydon.

The investigation gathered a large amount of evidence that painted a vivid picture of the day's events and the scenario that unfolded leading up to Shakilus' murder. The court heard how Shakilus had been smitten with Joseph, but he had realised he might be in trouble with McLean.  Joseph's friends told detectives that she had tried to conceal the relationship by telling Shakilus to say he was her cousin if they were seen out together. She had said he was 'dumb' for agreeing to this. A friend warned Joseph that it was wrong for her to have boys fight over her, but she continued seeing Shakilus. She also told the same friend 'either I get the beats, or he gets the beats' and admitted she was going to set Shakilus up, so McLean could attack him.
On the day of the murder, Shakilus met up with Joseph and momentarily boarded a 450 bus with her at Spa Hill at around 13.20, but got off before the bus departed. CCTV from the bus showed Joseph using her phone - records would show she had made a short call to McLean at this time. The following 450 bus was boarded at around 13.30 by McLean and the gang but the driver refused to allow them on. CCTV shows Andre Thompson carrying a bag, which contained a baseball bat.  Members of the public saw the gang duck behind cars as a bus passed with one of them saying 'Is he on the bus yet?' clearly referring to Shakilus. By the time Shakilus and Joseph were on a bus heading down Spa Hill towards Beulah Crescent Joseph was speaking to a friend on the phone. Her friend queried what she was doing with Shakilus and asked her if she was setting Shakilus up. She calmly said 'yes' before responding to a similar question from Shakilus by saying: 'Do you really think I'd do that?'
After getting off the bus, Shakilus was led by Joseph to a secluded cul-de-sac where at least three of the gang were waiting and he was attacked. He was kicked, punched, stabbed and hit with a baseball bat. Local residents saw the attack and came to his aid forcing the gang to run off, but despite medical attention he died in hospital in the early hours of the following morning. A post mortem revealed a broken arm, numerous blunt force injuries and at least four stab wounds, with the one to his liver measuring 15cm in width and 7cm in depth.

Convicted of shooting dead brother’s carer in East London
“Kindest, most giving person we ever met”

A man who shot dead his brother's carer outside an east London nightclub in July 2008 has today been convicted of murder at The Old Bailey.
 Andrew Denty DOB 30.9.78 -30 years, of Greenham Close SE1 was convicted of the murder of 36-year-old care worker Curtis Smith in Butcher's Row E1 on 27 July 2008. He was further convicted of:
= Possession of a firearm with intent to commit an indictable offence
= Conspiracy to pervert the course of justice -  by hiding the murder weapon.
A second man was acquitted of perverting the course of justice. He is George Ogaba DOB 21.11.89- 19 years of Leontine Close SE15.
A third man, Emmanuel Okot DOB 9.9.83 - 25 years of City Walk SE1 had previously pleaded guilty on 10 June 2009 to conspiracy to pervert the course of justice - by hiding the murder weapon.
The two men will be sentenced on the 17th July at the Old Bailey.
Investigating officer Detective Inspector Daniel Smith of Trident, said: "Curtis's employment as carer to Denty's brother was to cost Curtis his life. Although Denty has never admitted to his crimes, it was the prosecution's case that Denty despised Curtis because he was jealous, very possibly of the relationship he had with his brother. This festering hostility resulted in Denty wanting to exert power and authority over Curtis, which came to a head outside Club Red on 27 July 2008. Curtis was brutally gunned down- shot in the back of the head by a MAC 10 machine gun. I would like to thank the witnesses who showed courage and determination by giving evidence in this trial. Their actions have helped to loosen the fear gunmen can hold over their community by taking a killer off the streets. I also pay tribute to Curtis's family, who have shown courage and dignity throughout. I hope today's guilty verdict can help them to move forward. Trident will continue to work closely with the black community. With their support, we will continue to bring justice to offenders who commit gun crime”.
A murder investigation was launched following the death of Curtis Smith aged 36 years of W10. Police were called at 03.45 to reports of shots fired in Butcher's Row E1 on Sunday 27 July 2008. Curtis Smith was pronounced dead at the scene. A post mortem gave the cause of death as gunshot wounds to the head and neck.
Curtis was employed as a full-time carer at the time of his death. He was married to wife Sara and had been working nights to earn extra money to move into their new home. He was murdered on the day of their first wedding anniversary. On the night of his murder, Curtis was working as a carer for Andrew Denty's wheelchair bound brother, Clifford- himself a victim of gun crime. Curtis was to accompany Clifford on an evening out to Club Red in Cable Street E1. The pair were joined by Andrew Denty, also a carer to Clifford. The group left the club at about 03.30am, but as they prepared to leave an altercation broke out. Curtis was shot in the head and neck. Enquires identified Andrew Denty as the main suspect. He had left the scene after the shooting in a Mercedes van. A police search of the Mercedes and Andrew Denty's address in Greenham Close SE1 led to the discovery of spent bullet casings, linked to the murder weapon. A search of the address also uncovered a stun gun, a cross bow, shot gun cartridges and a quantity of drugs and paraphernalia. On 27 July 2008, Andrew Denty was arrested in connection with the investigation. He was subsequently charged with the murder of Curtis Smith and possession with intent to commit an indictable offence. During the course of the investigation, a MAC 10 machine gun was discovered by police concealed at an address in New Malden and identified as the murder weapon. The gun was concealed in a child's rucksack in an overgrown garden of a vacant house.On March 3 2009, Andrew Denty was arrested along with Okot and Ogaba on suspicion of conspiring to pervert the course of justice.
In a statement released after conviction, the family of Curtis Smith said: " Curtis was the kindest, most giving person we ever met. He always had a warm smile and was always willing to help others. His life was taken in the most cowardly, violent way by an evil and twisted criminal, who showed no remorse for his actions. We cannot begin to describe the pain that we, and all those who loved him, have been through. We all miss him so much. His death is a huge loss, which has not only left a hole in our lives, but a wound that will never heal."