Tuesday, 31 October 2023

paedophile messaged 2 girls on Xbox

Kris Hatton previously appeared before the courts in 2021 after amassing hundreds of sick child sex abuse images

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Kris Hatton, 31, of Princes Avenue, Toxteth

Kris Hatton, 31, previously appeared before Liverpool Crown Court in December 2021

A paedophile who messaged two young girls on his PlayStation claimed he does not have a sexual interest in children.

Kris Hatton previously appeared before Liverpool Crown Court in December 2021 after amassing hundreds of sick child sex abuse images. Hatton avoided prison due to his complex learning difficulties, but a sexual harm prevention order was enforced to monitor his usage of electronic devices.

However, part of the order meant the 31-year-old was regularly visited by specialist officers from Merseyside Police's sexual offences unit. When officers attended his address on March 15 this year, they looked at Hatton's iPhone and examinations revealed that part of its history had been wiped.

Prosecutor Paul Blasbery told Liverpool Crown Court today, Monday, October 30, that Hatton was noted to be acting suspiciously, and at one point attempted to snatch back his phone. The iPhone was taken away for further examination and officers were able to recover nearly 200 indecent images of children.

These included 137 category C images, 28 category B files and 33 category A images. The category A images, the most serious category, showed girls aged between eight and 10 years old. The category B and C images showed girls as young as six. The officers also recovered 11 prohibited computer generated images of females aged between six and 10.

The examinations also revealed the phone had Mega NZ software installed on it, which was not allowed and was a breach of the sexual harm prevention order. Mr Blasbery said Hatton was interviewed and told officers he "did not know why he had the pictures, he just did".

Hatton, of Princes Avenue, Toxteth, also claimed the pictures "were not for sexual gratification". He was released under investigation, but around four months later on July 13, police received a report he had used his PlayStation to speak to two girls aged five and eight. Mr Blasbery told the court the defendant asked the girls "if they wanted to have a sleepover".

Officers raided his address shortly after 10pm that day and arrested him. They found five registered devices at his address - three phones and two PlayStations - but also an unregistered Amazon Alexa which was a further breach of his sexual harm prevention order. When interviewed Hatton, who has two previous convictions for six offences, answered no comment to all questions.

In mitigation, Charles Lander, defending, told the court his client, who lives in supported accommodation, has learning difficulties and was "obsessive about online gaming which is how he spends his time". A judge in a previous sentence put on record Hatton has an IQ of 60.

Mr Lander said his client had "a lack of friend and family support" and was isolated. Despite the haul of images, Mr Lander said Hatton maintains "he does not have a sexual interest in children".

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He added his client had been on remand at HMP Altcourse since his guilty pleas to the offences at the lower court. Hatton pleaded guilty to making and possessing indecent images of children, possessing prohibited images and two breaches of the sexual harm prevention order. There was not a charge in relation to communicating with a sexual purpose to the two children on PlayStation.

Given Hatton's learning difficulties, Mr Lander said rehabilitation programmes outside of an immediate custodial sentence could be beneficial to his client. He added the court potentially "could take a risk on him".

His Honour Judge Denis Watson KC told Hatton that his reoffending came around half way through the previous community order enforced by the court in December 2021. He said Hatton's "harmful behaviour" was the opposite of what the order was intended for.

He jailed Hatton, who wore a blue tracksuit and had medium length black hair, to 30 months imprisonment. He also made a forfeiture order for Hatton's electronic devices and enforced a new sexual harm prevention order which will run indefinitely

Wednesday, 25 October 2023

Paedophile tells police

David Eyre blamed his offences on a pornography addiction - but he claimed he could not afford the sessions to help himself

David Eyre, 55, was jailed at Liverpool Crown Court

"I know what this is about." These were the words of a 'monster' paedophile when police raided his house earlier this year.

David Eyre, 55, who claimed his offending was due to a pornography addiction, was targeted by Merseyside Police officers from the specialist Online Child Abuse Investigation Team on June 20 this year following a lengthy investigation into his online activity, the Liverpool ECHO reports. Liverpool Crown Court heard yesterday (October 23) how Eyre told officers "I know what this is about" when they visited his Southport home and pointed at his computer, adding, "the devices are down there".

Prosecuting barrister Robert Dudley said police found "a computer tower" and three hard drives. The defendant added there was also another computer at his mum's address. An iPhone was also seized and examinations found its search history included "1970s school girl pornography" and "extreme beastiality".

During his first interview he answered no comment. However, after examining his electronic devices police officers found a disturbing haul of indecent images that included a number of photographs and videos of the same child. On August 16, Eyre's home was raided again and a second iPhone was found along with a suicide note.

Mr Dudley told the court how when questioned again the defendant admitted to having an addiction to pornography. He said he was "desensitised" to extreme pornography and added "when you're bored it pulls you back in". The court heard he had sought help for his addiction in the past but could not afford the sessions.

He said his addiction dated back 35 years but this was the first time he had acted on it and "was a threat". The court heard Eyre's devices contained hundreds of images and videos.

During the interview, Eyre, who had last wiped his computer three to four months before his arrest, said: "I'm glad of the intervention." The offending started when the victim was just 15 months old and continued until she was four.

Three moving victim impact statements were read to the court by Mr Dudley. The victim's dad said: "When I found out she had been sexually assaulted my heart sank." He said: "How can a monster hurt a beautiful, innocent girl". The court heard how the victim's family "don't know what damage this will cause in the future".

The victim's mum added she was "numb" when she was told what happened and "everything felt mumbled". She said she felt guilt because her daughter would have "wondered why we weren't there in her time of need".

She added her daughter's "innocence was taken away" and she would now have a "lifetime of picking up the pieces". Lastly, the victim's nan added the family is "going through a grieving process" and their "world crumbled" after Eyre's criminality was revealed.

Officers investigating Eyre not only charged him with assaulting a girl under 13 by penetration and touching, but also three counts of taking indecent images and three counts of possessing indecent images, among a number of other charges.

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He possessed hundreds of images, including nearly 650 category A - images of the most serious nature - that he had made himself. He also possessed images of prepubescent girls as young as seven.

Louise McCloskey, defending, said: "What can one say about these types of offences" and added it was all said in the victim impact statements heard in court. She said the offences would have been like a "hand grenade going off" for the victim's family.

In mitigation, she added that the defendant had written an extensive letter to the court which "showed proper acknowledgement of the harm he has caused". Ms McCloskey added the defendant had his own difficulties as a child and these issues had manifested into a porn addiction.

She said the defendant should be entitled to full credit - due to his earlier guilty plea to 16 different offences at magistrates' court - and asked that any sentence issued be "significant, but determinate".

His Honour Judge Robert Trevor-Jones told the defendant he was treating the two counts of penetration as the lead offences on the indictment. The judge acknowledged Eyre's letter had expressed remorse and referred to desensitisation surrounding the serious pornography.

Judge Trevor-Jones told Eyre his addiction was "entrenched behaviour" and saw him "completely preoccupied". But he also acknowledged how Eyre was a "psychological, physical and emotional risk to children" and only an immediate and lengthy custodial sentence would suffice.

The judge sentenced Eyre, who wore a short-sleeved flowery shirt during court, to 14 years with an extended licence period of five years. He will also have to sign the sex offenders' register for life. The judge also enforced a sexual harm prevention order, a deprivation order on his electronic devices and a restraining order to prevent him contacting the victim or her family.

Detective Inspector Victoria Tinsley, from Merseyside Police's Online Child Abuse Investigation Team, said: "Merseyside Police is completely committed to bringing child sex offenders before the courts, no matter how long ago the abuse took place. We have specialist officers within our Online Child Abuse Investigations team who are dedicated to investigating these crimes, bringing those responsible before the courts and ultimately protecting young people from unimaginable suffering.

"Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to stress that if you have experienced any form of sexual abuse, or know of a child being abused, please come forward and report this to police. We take all such reports extremely seriously and if you can find the courage to come forward and speak to us we have specially trained officers who will treat you

Saturday, 21 October 2023

Paedophile jailed for 21 years

Paedophile Chris Bell was jailed at Hull Crown Court for 21 years

Bell was convicted after denying a series of sexual offences (Image: HullLive )

A former BBC worker who a judge said has a “persisting sexual interest in children” has been jailed for 21 years after leaving his victim “still haunted” by their ordeal at his hands.

A court heard paedophile Chris Bell, who worked at the BBC for eight years in the 1980s, targeted a boy to satisfy his perverted urges.

The victim went on to become seriously depressed and the abuse had "massively" affected his life, Hull Crown Court heard.

Bell, 61, of Beech Avenue, Thorngumbald, near Hull, denied a series of sexual offences, including rape, attempted rape, sexual assault, making indecent images of a child and distributing them.

HullLive reports he was convicted of on all counts by a jury of 12 after a trial and has been put behind bars for more than two decades.

A judge told Bell he had a 'persisting sexual interest in children' (Image: HullLive )

Bell’s victim said in a statement read in court that the abuse had “affected him massively”.

He said he had felt "guilt, hurt and regret" at what happened to him and he became "severely depressed" at what he "endured" at the hands of Bell.

The abuse "still haunts me", he said, adding that Bell had taken his childhood innocence.

The statement added: "This whole thing has been very hard on me and I am still struggling, the road to recovery will be very long and very hard."

Simon Reevell, prosecuting, told the earlier trial that Bell previously worked at a number of local radio stations, including Stray FM, broadcasting to Yorkshire, and what was then Home FM, based in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire. He later “failed” running a pub and because a bus driver.

Bell previously lived in Filey, East Yorkshire, but had worked in Hull. He offered cigarettes to a young boy, despite the lad's age.

The court heard Bell undressed him and kissed him before trying to engage in sexual behaviour. Bell told the boy that it was a game, but the boy said he "felt sick".

Mr Reevell said: "He had no real understanding of what was being done to him and no understanding of what it all meant. For some years, he did not feel able to report it."

Bell had claimed that the allegations were false and denied that anything inappropriate had happened.

Bell at court before he was jailed for 21 years (Image: HullLive )

"He denied any sexual interest in children," said Mr Reevell. An image of two boys was found on his phone. It had been sent to a Snapchat account set up in a false name.

He admitted setting up the account and said that he might have received the image from a friend. He later denied responsibility for it.

Charlotte Baines, mitigating, said that Bell had no previous convictions.

Ms Baines said: "Although the offences are clearly very serious, there is not present here a significant risk to members of the public of serious harm.”

Judge Kate Rayfield said the boy had suffered "feelings of hurt and regret" but he had nothing to feel guilty about.

She said "Speaking out was a courageous act on his part” and told Bell: "You have a persisting sexual interest in children."

Bell will be on additional licence of one year after his eventual release from prison. He will have to register as a sex offender for life. A sexual harm prevention order will be made at a later hearing shortly.

Friday, 20 October 2023

Mother murdered her baby

Eloddie Goncalves-Taborda was convicted of killing her young baby in a 'traumatic' incident in Harlow three years ago

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Police mugshot of Eloddie Goncalves

Eloddie Goncalves who was found guilty of murdering 12-week-old baby Malik Goncalves

A mother has been jailed for life for the murder of her 11-week-old son, Malik, in Harlow three years ago. Eloddie Goncalves-Taborda, 32, was sentenced to life in prison with a minimum term of 17 years to be served before she will be considered for release.

Goncalves-Taborda was jailed for the murder of her son Malik when she appeared at Chelmsford Crown Court on Friday (October 20). At the same hearing her partner, Muritala Olaiya-Imam, was jailed for 10 years for allowing the baby’s death.

Both were convicted of the charges at the conclusion of a seven-week trial at the same court back in July. The jury also found Goncalves, formerly of Harlow, guilty of child cruelty and, alongside her partner, both were found guilty of attempting to pervert the course of justice.

Mrs Justice Farbey, sentencing the pair at Chelmsford Crown Court, said Malik was a "blameless and defenceless" baby. The judge added that Eloddie "put her own selfish interests above those of a baby".

Emergency services were called to an address in Harlow at around 10am on August 19, 2020 after Malik was found unresponsive by his mother. Sadly, despite the best efforts of paramedics, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

A post-mortem examination found he died of a head injury, he was also found to have suffered 21 rib fractures, had broken wrists and two skull fractures in different places. The injuries were indicative of shaking and a blunt impact trauma to his head.

Emergency services outside the block of flats in Harlow

Expert evidence at the trial confirmed that his injuries were more likely non-accidental, the majority of which were caused between two and 12 hours prior to his death. The baby’s left wrist was fractured 3-6 days prior to death.

Both Goncalves-Taborda and Olaiya-Imam denied responsibility for Malik’s death and attempted to pervert the course of justice. Goncalves-Taborda was interviewed by detectives multiple times over an 18-month period.

Throughout the interviews she continued to deny responsibility for causing Malik’s death, going as far as to blame an unknown intruder for her son’s death. This was a claim for which detectives did not find any supporting evidence.

Olaiya-Imam told the investigating team during interviews that, although he wasn’t present at the time of Malik’s death, he was distraught and loved his son. He denied being involved in any child cruelty and that he was unaware of the earlier wrist

Detective Chief Inspector Stuart Truss, who led the investigation, said at the time of conviction: “The death of a young child is and will always be immensely tragic and our thoughts remain with Malik’s wider family at this difficult time. Malik died at the hands of those who should have cared for him most.

“This lengthy, sensitive investigation was difficult for all those involved. But I am proud that everyone acted with determined professionalism and focussed on what really mattered – securing justice for the death of their defenceless baby son.”

Goncalves-Taborda had the opportunity to give evidence during the trial but she chose not to. She was also convicted of assault on an emergency worker.

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Wednesday, 18 October 2023

Paedophile kidnapped victim abused victim for 27 hours jailed for 20 years

Andrew Miller hid under a jacket when leaving a previous court appearance (Andrew Milligan/PA)

PA Wire

A paedophile who abducted a young girl as she walked home and sexually abused her for 27 hours has been jailed for 20 years.

Andrew Miller, 53, who also uses the name Amy George, was dressed as a woman when he offered the primary school-aged child – whom he had never seen before – a lift in February, in the Scottish Borders.

Miller took the girl back to his house and subjected her to repeated attacks, which a judge described as “every parent’s worst nightmare”.

At the High Court in Edinburgh in May, Miller pleaded guilty to charges of abduction, sexual assault, watching pornography in the presence of the child under the age of 13 and possessing 242 indecent images of children.

Sentencing Miller, Judge Lord Arthurson said: “The narrative was frankly nauseating in terms of its depravity and criminal sexual deviancy.

“On your arrest you denied the abduction and preposterously said you had acted in a motherly way.

“Abduction of young children for the purposes of sexual torment is a mercifully rare crime in this jurisdiction.”

You told the assessor you went into business mode, ‘trying to think of a plan'

Judge Lord Arthurson to the defendant

Lord Arthurson told Miller his “primary focus” throughout was himself and, while he showed an understanding of the impact his crimes had on the wider public, it was “limited” in terms of the victim.

During interviews with a risk assessor, Miller “even attempted to place responsibility on (his victim)”, the judge said.

When he was interviewed by police after his arrest, Miller alluded to the victim being “sexually active”, the judge said.

The judge said Miller alluded to the victim being “sexually active” when he was interviewed by police following his arrest.

Lord Arthurson described Miller’s crimes as “brazen and chilling” and “uniquely appalling”.

The court was told Miller is transitioning into a woman.

Miller has been held in the male prison estate following a row over the jailing of transgender rapist Isla Bryson who was sent to a female prison in February.

Earlier, the judge described Miller’s offences as “abhorrent crimes” of the utmost “deviance and depravity” which were “the realisation of every parent’s worst nightmare”.

The child was locked in Miller’s home for 27 hours, during which time she was repeatedly touched, and also forced to watch pornography.

She dialled 999 while Miller, who was wearing women’s underwear, was asleep.

The girl found the landline phone and called police, saying she had been touched inappropriately, the court heard.

Miller, who had run a butcher’s shop, claimed he offered the girl a lift “because she was freezing”, and claimed forcing her to sleep in the bed with him “was a motherly thing”.

After his arrest, three laptops were seized from his property and a total of 242 indecent images of children were found.

Miller was sentenced to a 28-year extended sentence, with 20 years to be spent behind bars and a further eight spent on licence under supervision in the community.

He was also placed on the sex offenders register.

After being sentenced, he was led down from the dock with his head bowed.

Defending Miller, Victoria Dow told the court he had gone through “significant periods” of his life without harming anyone.

She said he managed to keep his “impulses” under control by holding down a job and managing a successful business, but he had problems with low self-esteem.

His issues were triggered by the closure of his businesses, leading to increasing alcohol consumption and pornography usage.

Ms Dow said: “He (Miller) recognises and feels the horror of his conduct.

“He feels a deep sense of shame, but not only for himself, but those in his life who will feel the impact.”

Detective Chief Inspector Bryan Burns said: “Our thoughts today are with the victim and her family who have shown incredible courage and strength throughout this ordeal.

“This was a significant investigation and I would like to thank all those involved for their professionalism and commitment during what was an extremely challenging inquiry.

“Andrew Miller has pled guilty to serious offending and will now face the consequences of his actions.

Wednesday, 11 October 2023

Man and woman found dead

Man and woman found dead as double murder investigation launched

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Jasper King

Wednesday 11 Oct 2023 5:10 pm

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Police were called to Hallam Road, in Mapperley, Nottingham, after concerns were raised by family members (Picture: SWNS)

A murder investigation has been launched after a man and a woman’s body were found in a house.

Police were called to Hallam Road, in Mapperley, Nottingham, on Monday, to find Deborah Boulter, 53, David Boulter, 60, dead after concerns were raised by family members.

Nottinghamshire Police confirmed it is not looking for anyone else in connection with the inquiry.

Detective Inspector Clare Gibson said: ‘This is an incredibly tragic incident and our thoughts remain with the family and loved ones of those affected at this difficult time.

‘A murder inquiry has commenced but we are not looking for anyone else in connection with the deaths. We are continuing to investigate what has happened so that a file can be prepared for the coroner.

‘Specially trained officers continue to support the family and I’d appeal to the public and the media to respect their

preview image for ‘Help me, help me’: Neighbours describe hearing moment Ashley Dale was shot dead

'Help me, help me': Neighbours describe hearing moment Ashley Dale was shot dead.

Monday, 9 October 2023

Drug dealer caught after mum finds gun and calls police

Daniel Sneddon, 27, caged after police found evidence on his mobile phone

Daniel Sneddon, 27, of Galston Road, Kilmarnock, was jailed for 13 years and 6 months after abusing a boy from Warrington

A man who sexually abused a boy from Warrington has been jailed. Daniel Sneddon, 27, began abusing the boy when he was aged just 10, and filmed himself abusing the child.

The court heard how Sneddon would bribe his victim, by offering to buy gifts, before raping and sexually abusing the child. Police said the horrific abuse ended in February 2023 when the child's mother discovered a number of "concerning" texts from Sneddon to the victim.

Sneddon was arrested on Monday, March 6, but police let him go on conditional bail after he "vehemently" denied the offences, police said. Police say an in-depth investigation uncovered video evidence of the abuse stored on Sneddon's phone.

READ: Police name 13 men due in court over Chester FC disorder | Officers launched an investigation into trouble following the play-off semi-final game against Brackley Town

He was rearrested on Thursday 18 May and subsequently charged with engaging in sexual activity with a child, engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child, four counts of rape of a child under 13, two counts of sexual assault of a child under 13, and possession of indecent photographs of a child.

Sneddon, of Galston Road, Kilmarnock, admitted the sexually abusing the boy. He appeared at Chester Crown Court today (October 9), where he was sentenced to 13 years and 6 months in prison and a further four years on licence.

Following the sentencing, Detective Constable Neil Mooney, of Warrington CID, said: “This has been a complex and lengthy investigation which ultimately uncovered Sneddon's despicable behaviour. It was apparent throughout the investigation that Sneddon is a sexual predator who preyed on a vulnerable young boy and had no regard for the effects his actions would have on the victim or his family.

“When interviewed, Sneddon showed no remorse and failed to account for his actions. Those actions were premeditated and devious.

DC Mooney continued: “It is clear from reviewing the evidence in the case that Sneddon knew what he was doing was wrong, and that he went to great lengths to conceal his behaviour. I am pleased that this case has been brought to a swift conclusion for the sake of the victim and his family and I hope that Sneddon uses this time in prison to reflect on the devastating effects his actions have had.

“I would like to thank the victim for showing such bravery throughout this investigation, and his family for the support they have provided, both to their son and the investigation throughout. I hope this case and the sentence that Sneddon has received encourages other victims of sexual offences to come forward and report them to us."

DC Mooney added: "We treat all reports of sexual offences extremely seriously, and any allegations will be thoroughly investigated, with the wishes and needs of the victim as our main priority.”

Key Points

What are the long-term effects of child sexual abuse on the victims?

Should sexual offenders like Sneddon be given the opportunity for rehabilitation?

How would the investigation have been affected if the mother hadn't found the texts?

Devious Pedophile

Daniel Sneddon, 27, caged after police found evidence on his mobile phone

Daniel Sneddon, 27, of Galston Road, Kilmarnock, was jailed for 13 years and 6 months after abusing a boy from Warrington

A man who sexually abused a boy from Warrington has been jailed. Daniel Sneddon, 27, began abusing the boy when he was aged just 10, and filmed himself abusing the child.

READ: Police name 13 men due in court over Chester FC disorder | Officers launched an investigation into trouble following the play-off semi-final game against Brackley Town

“When interviewed, Sneddon showed no remorse and failed to account for his actions. Those actions were premeditated and devious.

DC Mooney added: "We treat all reports of sexual offences extremely seriously, and any allegations will be thoroughly investigated, with the wishes and needs of the victim as our main priority.”

Key Points

What are the long-term effects of child sexual abuse on the victims?

Should sexual offenders like Sneddon be given the opportunity for rehabilitation?

How would the investigation have been affected if the mother hadn't found the texts?

Duo accused of murdering much loved dad

Duo standing trial accused of murdering 'much-loved father and grandfather' in Wheatley Hill

Harvey Hughes, 20, and a 17-year-old youth are accused of murdering 46-year-old Ross Connelly

Ross Connelly who has been described as a "a much-loved father and grandfather" in a tribute from his family

Ross Connelly who has been described as a "a much-loved father and grandfather" in a tribute from his family (Image: Durham Constabulary)

A man and a youth are standing trial accused of murdering a much loved father by brutally beating him with a weapon.

Harvey Hughes, 20, and a 17-year-old youth - who cannot be named for legal reasons - are accused of murdering 46-year-old Ross Connelly in County Durham. The pair are currently standing trial at Newcastle Crown Court, each facing a charge of murder. They are also jointly accused of causing grievous bodily harm with intent, relating to another man, which they deny.

Hughes, of Peterlee, but currently of no fixed address, also faces a charge of making a threat to kill, which he denies. A third defendant, Millie Bradley, 19, of Beech Grove, Trimdon Grange, is also standing trial accused of assisting an offender. She denies the charge.

Read more: Dog destroyed after attacking man and causing serious injuries in Sunderland

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On the first day of the trial on Wednesday, prosecutor Nicholas Lumley KC, said the alleged grievous bodily harm offence happened on April 30 this year, when the pair were armed with a metal bar and "set about" a man in a street. He said: "It was completely unprovoked and thought they were somehow justified because of where he lived at the time. While there was a threat to kill him, that didn't happen."

The jury heard that in the early hours of the next morning on May 1, the pair then "targeted" Mr Connelly at his Wheatley Hill home. Mr Lumley said: "They went to the home of Ross Connelly and beat him with such force that his life couldn't be saved and he was killed. They are both charged with murder."

The jury heard that Hughes, and the youth were often seen together driving around in a Ford Transit van. A day before the alleged murder, the pair were in Shotton Colliery when they encountered a man walking down a street. Mr Lumley told the jury that when Hughes discovered the man was living at a nearby hostel, he told him: "Only nonces and paedophiles stay there."

Mr Lumley said he was "picking on him and picking a fight". A scuffle then broke out and the man came off worse before heading back to the hostel. The jury was told Hughes told the man he would "f****** kill him" and the man did not report the incident to police.

The jury was told that the following day, the youth defendant decided to "confront" Mr Connelly, and went to his home along with Hughes and others.

Mr Lumley said on the journey there, "they collected a weapon of the type used in the street earlier". It was later that the alleged murder took place.

Following the death of Mr Connelly, his family released a statement where they paid tribute to his "wicked sense of humour". In a statement released in May, they said: "We are devastated by the loss of Ross, who was a much-loved father and grandfather.

"He will be remembered as a man who loved his football, music, and had a wicked sense of humour. We request privacy at this time to allow us space to grieve."

The trial continues.

Friday, 6 October 2023

He drove down from his home in of Gwladys, Liverpool armed with a sex toy he intended on gifting the victim in exchange for a pair of her knickers, telling her to hide the toy from her

Lomas also brought alcohol, which he plied the girl with until she was "paralytic" then bent her over a log and sexually assaulted her.

After the sexual assault she was discovered by members of the public who called an ambulance. "She was shouting things like 'Why wont the pain stop?' and 'I want to die'," Mr Wayne said.

While she was telling passers by what had happened, Lomas tried to pull her away but fled once he realised the police were on their way.

Lomas was arrested and admitted his crimes to police at the station, after which they discovered the sexual communications on his mobile phone and his plans to meet her.

Lomas was charged and pleaded guilty to assault by penetration, sexual communication, and meeting a child following grooming on June 8 at Snaresbrook Crown Court.

Lomas lured his victim into secluded woods (Image: MyLondon)

Defending barrister Parveen Mansoor explained her client had a "difficult childhood" and underwent constant assessment by doctors due to his autism and developmental disorder.

But Ms Mansoor was briefly interrupted by Lomas as he objected to the charge of meeting a child following grooming, despite pleading guilty to it.

He claimed he was "told to plead guilty" by his previous counsel, against his belief he had not intended to commit a sexual offence.

Acting on her client's instructions, Ms Mansoor tried to make the point but it was rejected by Judge Gordon.

The judge said: "He travelled down from Liverpool having exchanged disgusting videos with her and you are telling me he did not intend to do anything.

"He has an appalling attitude in relation to this offence. He said there should be no law preventing sexual relations with anyone who has reached the age of puberty."

Lomas then shouted: "You're putting words in my mouth."

Judge Gordon asked him to "restrain yourself" and continued: "He claims to have no sexual interest in children, that's obviously not true. He has a self-confessed interest in Daddy Dom with little girls."

Ms Mansoor could only add that her client was sorry, and had promised to block any young girls if he found himself in a similar situation again.

Judge Gordon accepted the mitigation but added: "There's no evidence whatsoever of any motivation to change his behaviour."

Lomas admitted his crimes at the police station (Image: Getty )

As the judge gave his final sentencing remarks, Lomas locked horns again and blurted "she suggested it" as Judge Gordon recalled the moment he arranged to meet the 14-year-old.

Judge Gordon rebutted: "Anything she has done you should have prevented her from doing.

"You plied her with alcohol until she was paralytic. You bent her over a log and digitally penetrated her with two fingers. I have seen the victim impact statement which she gave, and you are rather lucky she seems to brush off your behaviour. At the end of the day she was quite clearly a very vulnerable child you took advantage of then abused."

After Lomas stormed out the court on September 21, Judge Gordon slapped him with an extended sentence of 10 years in his absence, citing his dangerousness to the public based on the expert opinions of the psychiatrist and probation service.

Lomas will serve a custodial period of six years and a further four on extended licence. He will be eligible for release by parole after four years.

HMP FIVE WELLS

HMP Five Wells officers 'left alone with 64 prisoners'

By Martin Heath and Annabel Amos
BBC News, Northamptonshire

2 October 2023

Prisoners at category C prison HMP Five Wells in Wellingborough — HMP Five Wells opened last year with space for 1,680 "residents"

A former prison officer at a so-called "super prison" has told the BBC she was often left alone on a landing with 64 prisoners.

Kate, which is not her real name, told the BBC prisoners at HMP Five Wells near Wellingborough in Northamptonshire were left to resolve incidents while the staff could only watch.

She left after six months.

The prison is run by G4S which said: "The safety of staff and prisoners is our number one priority."

HMP Five Wells opened in 2022 and was intended to support prisoners on the road to rehabilitation. There are no bars in the windows and inmates are known as "residents".

There are 24 different workshops at the 1,680-capacity jail to help inmates learn new skills with the aim of improving their job prospects on release.

However, Kate suggested there were issues with training, staff numbers and management.

Although she had a 12-week training course at the prison, she said that it did not really prepare her for the job.

"I basically got paid for 12 weeks of sitting on a wing that wasn't in use yet having a muck-about with my [trainee] mates," she said.

"As soon as I got on to the houseblock and then the landings, I didn't have a scooby what I was doing."

She said that there was very little support from the management who would only point out mistakes.

'Reluctance to challenge prisoners'

An Independent Monitoring Board [IMB] report published last month found there were too many "inexperienced operational staff" at the jail and a "reluctance by wing staff to challenge prisoners (e.g. when prisoners walk into the staff office, or when they are vaping in unauthorised areas)".

Kate said: "I'd say the prisoners are running it [the prison]. A lot stuff that happens there, the prisoners are the ones that deal with the situations and try to calm everybody down.

"[The staff] were there, watching it."

Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary Dominic Raab is given a tour of category C prison HMP Five Wells in Wellingborough — Image caption,
Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary Dominic Raab was given a tour of the category C prison last year

Kate said staff often felt unsafe: "If you have to go to get new rules signed or get the trolley for lunch or dinner, you're leaving one person on a landing, on their own with 64 prisoners.

"I used to be left on multiple landings on my own; I'm not a timid person, but it did used to freak me out and I always used to stand near the gate, just in case."

The IMB also said that drugs were available in most houseblocks and sightings of drones bringing illicit goods in had been common, although these were decreasing.

Ex Five Wells prison officer 'inmates run the place' - BBC Sounds

A spokesman for G4S, the private company which runs the prison, said: "The safety of staff and prisoners is our number one priority, and we do not tolerate violence.

"Managers take swift and robust action when serious incidents do happen. Such incidents are then referred to the police to support further prosecution.

"We have sufficient levels of staffing to run a stable, consistent and safe regime. We continue to drive recruitment to increase our staffing numbers which will enable us to broaden our current prison regime."

A prisoner repairs bikes in a workshop at category C prison HMP Five Wells in Wellingborough — The prison has 24 workshops allowing inmates to learn a range of skills, including bike repair

Businessman shot dead by brother

Zikel Bobmanuel died after a bullet him in the neck in Openshaw

Zikel Bobmanuel

A businessman was shot dead by his brother following a row over a pair of trainers, a murder trial heard. Zikel Bobmanuel died after his brother Rumaal Ingram opened fire in the street.

The bullet hit the floor and ricocheted, hitting 32-year-old Mr Bobmanuel in the neck. Jurors at Manchester Crown Court heard that Mr Bobmanuel, who ran his own clothing firm, had been involved in an argument with another man named Emmanuel Onasanya over a pair of trainers.

Onasanya, 32, claimed he was owed money in relation to the trainers, the court heard. Prosecutors claim that he 'enlisted the support and assistance' of Ingram, and that the pair went to meet Mr Bobmanuel in Openshaw on March 25.

Ingram, 36, has admitted firing the gun which killed Mr

Bobmanuel. Gordon Cole KC, prosecuting, told jurors that Ingram had previously pleaded guilty to manslaughter.

He and Onasanya both deny murder. Mr Cole said: “It is Mr Ingram who fired that gun, and having fired the gun, the bullet went into the floor first, but went into the neck of Mr Bobmanuel and killed him.

“The dispute was over some training shoes. The dispute was over money being owed to Onasanya by Mr Bobmanuel." Jurors heard that Mr Bobmanuel and Ingram share the same father.

Emmanuel Onasanya outside Manchester Crown Court (Image: Manchester Evening News)

Giving evidence, Mr Bobmanuel's mother Justina Bobmanuel said she knew the pair rowed in the past but didn't believe they had previously descended into violence. She said: "I knew that they had arguments just like any other siblings have arguments."

Ms Bobmanuel told how on the day he was killed, her son had come to her home to pick up some belongings from her late father's property nearby. She said she heard Mr Bobmanuel arguing with someone on the phone. She said he told him it was a friend of Marley, a nickname which Ingram uses.

“It was regarding a couple of pairs of trainers," Ms Bobmanuel said. She claimed that Ingram had threatened to shoot her son in the leg, in a further call.

Police at the scene in Openshaw (Image: Sean Hansford | Manchester Evening News)

“I just turned around and said ‘he wouldn’t," she told the court. “His own brother, he is not going to do that. He is probably just mouthing off, your brother wouldn’t do that.”

Ms Bobmanuel said she asked him to stay inside but that he later left. She later saw police arrive and found her son on the floor, the court heard.

Jurors were told that both Ingram and Onasanya deny murder. Speaking of Onasanya's case, Mr Cole said: "He is going to say he knew nothing about this, he played no part in any joint shooting, he didn’t know there was a gun, he didn’t know there was a shooting going to be carried out.

Of Ingram, the prosecutor added: "He is going to say he didn’t intend to fire the gun and hit Zikel Bobmanuel with a bullet despite firing it, we say, in his direction."

The trial of Ingram, of Bucklow Avenue, Fallowfield; and Onasanya, of John Beeley Avenue, Openshaw; continues.

Wednesday, 4 October 2023

Dog Shot after attacking man.

Ian "Scouse" Langley, 54, was attacked by the raging animal outside a home in Sunderland at around 6.55pm

Ian Langley was killed by a dog last night

A man was arrested on suspicion of murder following the horror attackCredit: PA

He was rushed to hospital with serious, life-threatening injuries but sadly couldn't be saved and died last night.

A 44-year-old man, who was known to Ian, was arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody.

Did you see what happened? Call The Sun Online on 0207 782 4369 or email exclusive@the-sun.co.uk

Northumbria Police confirmed the dog was destroyed at the scene to "ensure the

DOG HORROR Moment mum protects baby in buggy from terrifying dog attack

DOG ATTACK HORROR Five holidaymakers injured in savage dog attack at family caravan park

A second dog - also an XL Bully - was seized from the property as a precaution.

Tributes have now flooded in for dad-of-one Ian, who was with his Patterdale terrier puppy Beau when the dog attacked.

Friend Rachael Barron, 31, said: "It's absolutely devastating that

this has happened to him, he is a lovely, kind man.

"He's very slight of build and could not hurt a fly, he would have

stood no chance against a dog as big as that, it makes me feel sick to

think about

"We have been devastated, I haven't even been able to tell the kids

yet, they will be so upset. Everyone knew and liked him, he was a

lovely guy.

"He didn't work but spent all his time with Beau or helping out in

people's allotments. He just liked to be around people."

Another pal added: "He didn’t deserve to die.

“He was a canny lad. He was friendly. It’s a tragedy.”

Horrified locals told how police told them to stay indoors as officers stormed the residential street last night.

Neighbour Linda Blyth, 56, said she then heard a "loud crack" as the animal was shot dead.

She added: "It seems as though the man was trying to get his puppy out of the way when the XL Bully took hold of him.

"It's the most awful thing I've seen."

One witness said there was "so much blood" following the savage attack as the animal went for Ian's throat.

Locals also claimed the XL Bully had been reported in the past for attacking other dogs.

The horror is the latest in a spate of dog attacks across the

It also comes amid a growing public debate after Rishi Sunak vowed to ban American bully XL dogs.

The PM said the breed will be outlawed under the Dangerous Dogs Act following a spate of terrifying attacks.

Detective Chief Inspector Angela Hudson, of Northumbria Police, said: “First and foremost, I would like to extend my sincere condolences to the man’s family and loved ones.

“This is an absolutely tragic incident, and we will continue to offer them support in any way that we can.

“A full investigation has been launched to determine the circumstances of what has happened.

“I would like to reassure the wider community that there is no ongoing risk to them, and officers will remain in the area to offer reassurance and carry out enquiries.

“While our investigation is at an early stage, we do believe those involved were known

Tuesday, 3 October 2023

Problem Prison

sky news

HMP Five Wells: Justice secretary to 'look into' staff conditions at state-of-the-art prison exposed in Sky News report

Three prison guards told Sky News that the state-of-the-art super prison run by security firm G4S is under-equipped and short-staffed. They also said prisoners are allowed to run riot and there are too many inexperienced staff.

By Niamh Lynch, Sky News reporter @niamhielynch

Justice sec responds to Sky report

Justice secretary Alex Chalk said he will probe conditions for staff at a Northamptonshire prison after an exclusive Sky News report.

Speaking from the Conservative Party conference in Manchester on Breakfast with Kay Burley, Mr Chalk said he has already "given instructions" to investigate HMP Five

Read more: Staff warn of chaos and violence inside HMP Five Wells

They also said prisoners are allowed to run riot and there are too many inexperienced staff.

Mr Chalk said: "I was clear that we want to look into them rapidly, so I've given instructions [for inquiries] to take place, particularly in respect of equipment."

He cited body-worn video as a key tool to "help dial-down confrontations", but added that if they're not working, "that's something we need to look into".

Sunday, 1 October 2023

BLOWN TO BITS Horror moment suicide bomber & rocket launcher-wielding terrorist attack parliament before blowing up in Turkey

THIS is the moment two terrorists armed with a rocket launcher and a suicide bomb launched an attack near the Turkish parliament.

Explosions and gunfire rang out in the assault at around 9.30am local time as one attacker blew himself up.

Two terrorists pulled up in a car outside the parliament in Ankara

One of the attackers then detonated a suicide bomb as he stormed the guardhouse

Two police officers were injured in the attack outside the country's interior ministry in the capital city of Ankara.

Turkish authorities confirmed one attacker killed himself with the bomb and another was shot dead by security forces.

Footage shows the moment a van pulls up next to a security checkpoint and two terrorists begin the assault.

The two men - armed with guns and a rocket launcher - exchange fire with cops.

This is a copy from the sun newspaper and opera news

Saturday, 30 September 2023

Mothers hardest decision

The distraught mum said she knows she'd 'do the same again'.

The distraught mother was alerted to the horrific news after coming home from a night out with friends by her daughter, Jade.

Jade had informed Donna of what Joshua had confided in her regarding the fatal incident which took place between himself and Charley.

She added: "Jade said he'd stabbed this boy, who he had never met before, then gone off to bed. I ran straight into his bedroom and turned on the light. Josh was asleep and I was shaking him awake, but when he came to he admitted everything."

Recalling the night, Donna revealed that her son was 'scared and didn't know what to do' upon which she made the difficult decision.

"I said there was only one thing he could do - hand himself in to the police," she continued.

Joshua, however, was 'too terrified' to do so.

Donna explained: "So I said if he wouldn't call them, I would. He just nodded. So I grabbed my phone and dialled 999."

"My son will have to live with this for the rest of his life," she concluded.

Joshua Delbono was sentenced to a minimum of 21 years in prison at Bristol Crown Court last Tuesday (11 April) for the murder of Charley Bates.

paedophile sentenced

WARNING DISTURBING: Dad Shaun Moynihan sent extremely graphic messages to what he thought were 13-year-old girls, insisting he would meet up with them as long as they 'looked older'

https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/liverpool-news/paedophile-who-plotted-fun-meets-27811605

Shaun Moynihan was jailed for two years and 11 months

A sick paedophile who tried to meet 13-year-old girls in Aldi for "fun meets" collapsed in the dock as he learned his fate.

Dad Shaun Moynihan sent extremely graphic messages to what he believed were young underage girls in online chatroom Randochat. However, the 52-year-old pervert from Birkdale, Southport, was in fact chatting to undercover police officers who managed to snare him resulting in a prison sentence of just under three years. Liverpool Crown Court heard on Friday that the dad began communicating with a Merseyside Police PC posing as a 13-year-old girl under the name "Anonymous Man 51" and using a photograph of himself as his profile picture. He then gave his first name and said he was "looking for fun meets".

Moynihan, who lives on Clifford Road, asked the "young girl" ifshe had "big boobs", adding that he would meet her if she looked older. They arranged to meet, before Moynihan began sending sexual messages asking if she was a "naughty girl". He even offered to pick her up in his car, buy her underwear and book a hotel room for them to meet.

The pervert asked whether she was in school at the time and instructed her to record a voice note for him, the Liverpool ECHO reports. He was caught out twice on the same day - entering into a new chat with another 13-year-old girl, who was once again an undercover police officer attempting to snare him. Telling the "underage girls" that he was "Shaun from Southport", Moynihan suggested meeting at a local Aldi store at 6.30pm the same day and asked whether she was "into naughty stuff". The messaging continued on November 10, with him by now going by the username "Sean, Man, 51". He was reminded of her purported age, but said they could still "kiss and play with each other".

Moynihan detailed sex acts he wanted to perform on her and again suggested meeting at Aldi that night before "taking it from there" and said he would be there "at 6.30pm in his silver car". Officers subsequently searched Facebook for users called Shaun in the Southport area and identified him from his profile picture. Moynihan was arrested at his workplace on January 16 this year and, after being cautioned, replied: "I have engaged in online chats but never knew they were children."

Under interview, he accepted that he had been chatting to children but "denied any intention of meeting a child" - instead saying that it was "fantasy only". He has no previous convictions. Moynihan had previously been due to be sentenced on Friday last week, but the case had to be adjourned after he seemingly suffered a panic attack. After entering the dock, he was heard to say that he was "claustrophobic" and began hyperventilating.

The defendant initially appeared to have been calmed down by a security guard, but his state worsened once more when the judge entered the courtroom. The dock officer remarked that she believed he had stopped breathing and Moynihan appeared to fall unconscious, with his head having fallen back as he sat apparently unresponsive. An ambulance was called, and he was subsequently taken to hospital. His sentencing was adjourned for seven days as a result.

Jeremy Rawson, defending, told the court today: "References speak highly of him. He has kept the support of his family since his arrest. He has always worked, either in the care system or in shop work. At the time of the offence, he was working as a salesman in mobility products. He is the sole wager supporting the family. His wife is sitting in the public gallery and is supportive of him."

Moynihan admitted two counts of attempting sexual communications with a child, two charges of arranging a child sex offence and attempting to incite a child to engage in sexual activity. He put his head in his hands and cried as he was jailed for two years and 11 months and told to sign the sex offenders' register for 10 years.

Sentencing, Judge Robert Trevor-Jones said: "You were making persistent efforts to try to meet up. You are someone of fully good character before this offence took place. Clearly, you are remorseful. One hopes, given the indication I have seen in this courtroom, that you are able to bear what you have done. It seems you were a long time user of chatrooms. Clearly, this is something that led on to what you did. You are 52 and the girls, so-called, were 13 years of age. There is no getting away from that fact

Thursday, 28 September 2023

Man charged with murder

her first-born child as a ‘wonderful daughter and sister’.

‘She was also a fantastic mum to her two girls, who she loved so much,’ she said.

‘Sarah would always put others first and was always incredibly kind.’

‘As a family, we are all devastated by her death.

General view of Derby Crown Court, Derby. — Darren Hall will go on trial for Ms Henshaw’s murder at Derby Crown Court in December (Picture: PA)

‘We miss her so much and will love her forever.’

An online fundraiser to pay for Ms Henshaw’s funeral in August and support her daughters has raised more than £9,000.

The GoFundMe page was set up by close friend Shannaide Colebourne, who said Ms Henshaw’s death had been a ‘massive unexpected shock’, leaving loved ones ‘absolutely devastated and heartbroken’.

The donations showed ‘how loved Sarah was’, Ms Colebourne told the BBC.

her first-born child as a ‘wonderful daughter and sister’.

‘She was also a fantastic mum to her two girls, who she loved so much,’ she said.

‘Sarah would always put others first and was always incredibly kind.’

‘As a family, we are all devastated by her death.

General view of Derby Crown Court, Derby.

Darren Hall will go on trial for Ms Henshaw’s murder at Derby Crown Court in December (Picture: PA)

‘We miss her so much and will love her forever.’

An online fundraiser to pay for Ms Henshaw’s funeral in August and support her daughters has raised more than £9,000.

The donations showed ‘how loved Sarah was’, Ms Colebourne told the BBC.

Wednesday, 27 September 2023

15 year old girl stabbed on bus

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138437485146

LIVECroydon stabbing: Schoolgirl knifed to death in front of her two horrified friends

Police have arrested a teenage boy believed to be known to the 15-year-old girl after she was pronounced dead at the scene following reports of a stabbing in Croydon

VIDEO LOADING

Croydon: Police cordon scene of stabbing on London bus

NEWS

POLITICS

FOOTBALL

CELEBS

CHOICE

KEY EVENTS

Two pals witnessed horror moment their 'very close friend' was stabbed17:39

Vigil to be held this evening for young victim15:12

Schoolgirl's family are 'devastated' and 'in shock', says support worker14:13

Boy, 17, remains in custody for questioning14:08

School pays tribute to 'much-loved and valued friend and pupil'13:38

ByKatie WestonSenior Reporter (Exclusives)Amy SharpeNews ReporterAndy LinesKieren Williams

UPDATED18:31, 27 SEP 2023

BOOKMARK

A teenage girl was stabbed to death after taking a bus to school in front of her two horrified friends this morning.

Police raced to reports of a stabbing near Whitgift shopping centre, Croydon, south London at around 8.30am today. Paramedics from the London Ambulance Service and London’s Air Ambulance also attended. Despite their best efforts, the teenage girl was sadly pronounced dead at the scene less than an hour later.

Officers tracked down a teenage boy in connection with the incident, and arrested him in the area at roughly 9.45am. The force believes that he may have been known to her. A crime scene remains in place as detectives investigate.

Anthony King, chair of the My Ends organisation which works with the Met Police in Croydon said: “Two 15-year-old girls were absolutely devastated by witnessing their very close friend being stabbed. They’re still being interviewed by police. The trauma, the shock of the two girls that were present was absolutely heart wrenching, heart breaking. They were on the bus to school this morning, they were due to arrive about 8.45am. They were very close friends with the deceased."

A bus driver and passer-by desperately tried to save a teenage girl on the pavement after horror unfolded during the school rush hour this morning. A mother-of-two, who wanted to be named only as Bridget, said: "I was on the bus before and came off and walked back down, I saw them resuscitating her. The driver was holding her, and a lady. The emergency services were already here when I walked back."

She said two other schoolgirls, believed to be the victim's friends, were trying to get back through the police cordon but were held back. Footage posted on social media showed several police cars and ambulance vehicles near a bus in Croydon on Wednesday morning.

The Met's Chief Superintendent Andy Brittain, in charge of local policing, said: “Our immediate thoughts are with this young girl’s family who are facing the most tragic of news. Our officers are with the girl’s family to support them. I am in contact with the local community, who are clearly as concerned as we are about this tragic incident. I shall continue to update them throughout the day.

“My officers were immediately on scene to provide first aid and support paramedics. Acting on information provided to them, officers also worked closely with colleagues from across the Met and the British Transport Police to track a teenager in connection with the stabbing. I can confirm that an arrest was made at about 09:45hrs in the Croydon area.

"At this early stage we believe that he may have known her. A crime scene will be in place for some time, and I am grateful for the cooperation of residents.” A white tent has been erected within a police cordon outside the Whitgift Centre on Wellesley Road.

Three crews, an incident response officer and an advanced paramedic in a car were sent to the scene, said the London Ambulance Service. Anyone who witnessed the attack or has information is urged to call police via 101 quoting reference CAD 1601/27Sep, or get in touch anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

This is a developing story. Follow our live blog below for all the latest updates

18:31Kieren Williams

Community worker helped alleged attacker 'for more than a couple years' before stabbing

A community worker has said he worked with the teenage boy who allegedly stabbed a 15-year-old girl in the neck for "more than a couple of years".

Anthony King is chairman of the My Ends project, an initiative that aims to stop youth violence in Croydon.

He said that he had worked with the alleged attacker over a lengthy spell, before this mornings horrific incident that left a teenager girl dead on her way to school. He said the news "came as a major shock".

A blood stained bunch of plastic flowers is seen on the pavement near the horrific attack this morning (Image:Peter Macdiarmid/LNP)

17:58Kieren Williams

Heartbreaking message left in tribute to teenager schoolgirl stabbed this morning

A heartbreaking message was left amongst the tributes to the teenage girl who was stabbed in Croydon this morning.

One message left with a bunch of tulips said: "Sorry we live in this crazy world. This makes no sense. Fly high up there. My mummy will look after you xx. RIP beautiful, forever young taken too soon."

17:39KEY EVENT

Two pals witnessed horror moment their 'very close friend' was stabbed

Two pals witnessed the moment their friend was stabbed in the neck and killed, in Croydon, south London, this morning.

They were said to have been "very close friends" with the young victim, and had been on the bus with her on their way to school.

Police forensic officers at the scene of a fatal stabbing

“The family are being supported by specialist officers. What I can say to the community which is absolutely devastated is to reassure children and young people that it is safe to walk the street, to travel through the streets.

“The trauma, the shock of the two girls that were present was absolutely heart wrenching, heart breaking. They were on the bus to school this morning, they were due to arrive about 8.45am. They were very close friends with the deceased."

17:31Kieren Williams

Stabbing victim had 'a bright future' ahead

The teenage girl who was tragically killed in Croydon this morning in Croydon had a "bright future" ahead of her.

A community worker said the young victim had a bright future ahead of her as she prepared to take her GCSEs. Anthony King, chair of the My Ends organisation which works with the Met Police in Croydon said: “She had a bright future ahead of her going into her GCSE year.

“The victim was absolutely incredible with a very bright future. A very comedic young lady. The word I think that was used was jovial. She was on track to pass all of her GCSEs. She was very articulate.”

16:55Kieren Williams

Student from same school as stabbing victim comforted in touching picture

After this morning's horrific stabbing, some people have visited the scene of the attack.

Some flowers were left in tribute, and others were seen comforting one another in Croydon, south London.

A youngster who goes to the same school as the stabbing victim is comforted in Croydon (Image:Jeremy Selwyn)

16:45Kieren Williams

Tributes left at the scene of the tragic stabbing

Tributes have been left at the scene of this morning's tragic stabbing.

Flowers have been left at the scene of the stabbing in Croydon, south London this afternoon.

Meanwhile, other people were seen, visibly emotional, as they comforted one another at the scene.

Tributes left at the scene of the tragic stabbing (Image:PA)

16:26Kieren Williams

Forensic officer collects roses after reports victim was offered flowers moments before horrific attack

A forensic officer has been seen putting flowers into a container at the scene of this morning's horrific stabbing in Croydon, London.

This came after earlier reports that the victim had been offered flowers before an argument broke out, in the moments leading up to the stabbing. Chevanice Thomas said her friend was on Wellesley Road and saw a boy give the girl flowers.

A forensic investigator puts flowers into a container at the scene of the stabbing (Image:PA)

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Chevanice continued: “He turned up today with a group of boys and tried to give her flowers, she didn’t want anything to do with him, she said something, then he got violent and stabbed her. The knife was like a sword - it was really big.”

Another woman at the scene told how her friend was aboard the bus and witnessed the girl arguing with a boy prior to the stabbing. The woman, who did not want to be named, said: “The boy was with a group and he gave her flowers. She didn’t want it. They were arguing, the whole bus could hear, and then it spilled off the bus apparently. It’s so sad but I can’t say I’m shocked. We have had stabbings in Croydon before. This is what happens now.”

16:14Kieren Williams

Met Police commissioner arrives at the scene

The Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley has arrived at the scene of this morning's tragic stabbing.

The chief copper was pictured walking near the Whitgift shopping centre in Croydon, where the young girl was stabbed this morning.

Even after one arrest, officers continue to comb the area for any and every bit of evidence.

15:47Kieren Williams

Local MP 'heartbroken' and says community will take time to grieve

The local MP has spoken out earlier today after the tragic stabbing this morning.

Croydon MP Sarah Jones said: “I’m heartbroken that a child in my town has been killed on her way to school and I cannot imagine the grief that her family will be going through at this time.

“I want to thank the police and the ambulance services for trying so hard to save her life. They run into danger and I know they will be suffering today, too. I want to repeat the request from the police that if anybody has any information so anything please do get in touch.

“We all hold our children close and our community will take time to grieve, but for today we are just thinking of this young girl and her family. I’m so sorry.”

Local leaders have spoken out after the tragedy this morning (Image:TIM ANDERSON)

15:20Kieren Williams

Man described how he ran down a boy in aftermath of stabbing

A man has described how he and others chased after a boy in the aftermath of the stabbing in Croydon, today.

Victor Asare was on a bus on the way home from a night shift as a security worker when he said he saw a boy in a black blazer stab a girl in the neck with a knife which was “black, thin and about a foot long”.

He said: “The boy wore a black blazer, the girl wore green. It looked like the girl didn’t want the boy to come closer.” He then described the boy stabbing the girl in the neck with a black knife.

The 50-year-old described how the stabbing took place, and the horrifying aftermath. He added. "A lot of people came, everyone came off the bus. [The boy] ran away. Everybody was crying and screaming. The girl was on the floor. We tried to catch him and a lot of people tried to save the girl. I was so shocked, I was shaken. It’s somebody’s daughter. I finished work but couldn’t sleep, so came back, I wanted to see if the girl was OK.”

Officers at the scene of the stabbing this afternoon (Image:TIM ANDERSON)

15:12KEY EVENT

Vigil to be held this evening for young victim

A vigil is to be held later this evening for the young teenage girl, at a local church.

The Croydon Minster announced on its social media that it would be opening its doors for anyone to pay their respects, light a candle or sit in quiet and reflect.

They added: "We pray for the pupil, her parents, family, and friends, and for peace in our town and borough."

14:43Katie Weston

Updated police statement in full

Following this afternoon's press conference, the Met Police has released an updated statement.

The force said: "Shortly after 08:30hrs on Wednesday, 27 September, we were called to reports of a stabbing in Wellesley Road. Officers were on the scene within two minutes of the call being received.

"They provided emergency first aid along with paramedics from the London Ambulance Service and London's Air Ambulance. Sadly, despite their efforts, a 15-year-old girl died at the scene.

"Her family have been informed and our thoughts are with them at this incredibly difficult time. We carried out urgent enquiries to find the suspect - and within around 75 minutes of the incident happening - a 17-year-old boy was arrested in New Addington.

"He remains in custody and will be questioned by detectives. We remain in the early stages of our investigation, however based on what we know so far, we are not looking for anybody else at this time.

"From our initial enquiries, we believe the suspect knew the victim. We are not in a position to release the victim's identity at this time."

Sarah Jones, Labour MP for Croydon Central makes a statement to the media (Image:Getty Images)

14:33Amy Sharpe

Students to gather at scene today to pay tribute to schoolgirl

Students are expected to attend the scene to pay tribute this afternoon, Donna said.

"This will have a ripple effect amongst schools and school leaders and parents will have to think about how to handle this. This is going to have a massive effect across our borough."

A forensic officer photographing the scene (Image:TIM ANDERSON)

14:32Amy Sharpe

Girl's parents 'were called to scene but couldn't make it in time'

James, a support worker, added: "I got a phone call from the police and came down, and it was here I spoke to the family.

"They received a call to come to the scene shortly after the incident happened. Unfortunately they (were not) able to arrive in time (before she died.)"

Donna Murray-Turner, of community group Another Night of Sisterhood, said she was also there to offer the girl’s family support this morning. She told the Mirror: “Words like devastated and disbeliefs and shock are not enough.

“Imagine you got a phone call asking where you where you are, are you by yourself, get on transportation, then to find out that your child is gone. How would anyone feel?”

Both community groups will be supporting the schoolgirl’s family, as well as friends who were at the scene and witnessed the incident, in the coming days and weeks.

Safer Neighbourhood Board Chair, Donna Murray-Turner

14:13KEY EVENT

Schoolgirl's family are 'devastated' and 'in shock', says support worker

By Amy Sharpe

The family of a schoolgirl who was fatally stabbed are "devastated and in shock" following her death, a community worker has said.

James Watkins told how the girl’s parents were summoned to the scene this morning but “unable to make it” in time to say goodbye to their daughter. James, founder of Mainz World - which offers crime-prevention projects for children and young people - also said the suspect had been “known” to his organisation.

He told the Mirror: "“They are devastated and I would say, more importantly, in shock. I don’t think it feels real to them at the moment." The family “are not at a stage yet” to be thinking of paying tribute to the girl, who had siblings, James said - adding that they are “just in shock and disbelief.”

14:12Katie Weston

Police not looking for anyone else in connection with stabbing

Mr Brittain said: "We remain in the early stages of our investigation.

"We believe we are not looking for anyoe else. It is believed the suspect may have known the victim."

The force is not in a position to release the victim's identity, he said. The chief superintendent added: "We are working to ensure those directly affected get the right support and the wider community can come together and grieve."

A forensic tent and officers near the bus stop (Image:Getty Images)

14:10Katie Weston

Met chief superintendent: 'This is every parent's worst nightmare'

Mr Brittain told reporters: "This is every parent's worst nightmare.

"Officers who responded this morning are devastated at the victim's death." The teenage girl's family have been informed, he said.

Police work at the scene (Image:Getty Images)

14:08KEY EVENT

Boy, 17, remains in custody for questioning

Giving a press conference this afternoon, the Met's Chief Superintendent Andy Brittain said a 17-year-old boy has been arrested.

He confirmed that he remains in custody and will be questioned by detectives.

Chief Superintendent Andy Brittain makes a statement to the media (Image:Getty Images)

13:54Katie Weston

Forensic teams inspect scene after schoolgirl's death

13:46Katie Weston

Schoolgirl's friends 'tried to get through cordon but were held back'

Michael Fyffe, a local business owner who has two 13-year-old twins, said he came across the horrifying scene as he left the shopping centre.

He said: "I didn't see the incident itself, I came just afterwards. There was a girl on the floor and police officers were trying to resuscitate her. Two of her friends were trying to get to her and one was saying they were her best friend.

"Lots of people were getting off the bus. I came out of the Whitgift Centre and saw people and started asking what happened and then saw the girl on the floor. Everyone on the bus said she had been stabbed in the neck and some guy ran off."

A mother-of-two, who wanted to be named only as Bridget, also said two schoolgirls were trying to get back through the police cordon, but were held back.

Police work at the cordoned-off scene (Image:Getty Images)

13:38KEY EVENT

School pays tribute to 'much-loved and valued friend and pupil'

The girl was a pupil at Old Palace of John Whitgift School.

The school released a statement to say: "We are deeply shocked by the senseless and tragic death of our much-loved and valued friend and pupil. It will take some time for the Old Palace community to come to terms with this terrible news, and we will offer support to our pupils as we try to do so.

"Above all, we send our love and deepest sympathies to the girl's family at this unimaginably distressing time."

13:29Katie Weston

Estate agent who works nearby says area is a 'war zone'

An estate agent who works near the scene in Croydon has said the town has "gone to the dogs".

Leigh Thomas, 41, said: "I came out of my office and there were two ambulances right across the road and about 12 police cars." He added: "Croydon has gone to the dogs recently. The other side of the shopping centre is a war zone.

"There's drug dealing, fights, there was another stabbing recently. I grew up around here, it's not what it used to be."

Forensics next to the bus (Image:PA)

13:24Katie Weston

Teenager attended all-girls private school nearby, says report

The teenage girl who was fatally stabbed attended a leading all-girls private school in the area, it is reported.

She is believed to have been a pupil at Old Palace of John Whitgift school, according to The Telegraph.

The Mirror has approached the school for comment.

Forensics at the scene (Image:PA)

12:56KEY EVENT

Bus driver 'tried to resuscitate girl' after she was stabbed 'in neck and chest'

By Amy Sharpe

A local mum-of-two described how a bus driver attempted to resuscitate the schoolgirl after she was stabbed “in the neck and chest”. Bridgett - who did not want to give a surname -told how she disembarked a different bus on Wellesley Road this morning and happened upon the “panicked” scene.

“When I came she was already on the floor. There was a bus driver holding her and then a lady - she was so panicked. Everybody who was there was panicked.”

Bridgett, who lives in Croydon, added: "When they were resuscitating her I was gasping. She was in grey trousers and they were resuscitating her and I saw her (gasping). I was so scared I didn’t go close." When asked where the girl’s wounds were, she gestured to her beck and chest.

Forensics arrived early this afternoon to comb the area (Image:PA)

12:39KEY EVENT

Schoolgirl 'rejected flowers' moments before stabbing

By Amy Sharpe

A schoolgirl who was fatally stabbed this morning was seen arguing on a bus with “an ex-boyfriend after he gave her flowers”, it has been claimed. Locals told how a row between the pair “spilled out into the street” when they disembarked a bus outside the Whitgift shopping centre this morning.

Chevanice Thomas said her friend was on Wellesley Road and saw the schoolgirl arguing with a boy prior to the stabbing. The 28-year-old, who works in construction, said: “He turned up today with a group of boys and tried to give her flowers, she didn’t want anything to do with him, she said something, then he got violent and stabbed her. The knife was like a sword - it was really big.”

“It’s so sad but I can’t say I’m shocked. We have had stabbings in Croydon before. This is what happens now.”