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August 2023
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Detectives have made the UK’s largest cryptocurrency seizure worth nearly £180million, superseding the previous record set by the Met just weeks ago.
This is believed to be one of the largest seizures globally and tops the £114million confiscation made by the Met on Thursday, 24 June. The seizures were made by detective from the Met’s Economic Crime Command on the back of intelligence received about the transfer of criminal assets. They form part of an ongoing investigation into international money laundering. A 39-year-old woman was arrested on 24 June on suspicion of money laundering offences. She was released on bail. Money laundering solicitors London The same woman was interviewed under caution in relation to the discovery of the near £180 million worth of cryptocurrency on Saturday 10 July. She has been bailed to a date in late July. The investigation continues. Detective Constable Joe Ryan said: “Less than a month ago we successfully seized £114million in cryptocurrency. Our investigation since then has been complex and wide-ranging. We have worked hard to trace this money and identify the criminality it may be linked to. Today’s seizure is another significant landmark in this investigation which will continue for months to come as we hone in on those at the centre of this suspected money laundering operation.” Deputy Assistant Commissioner Graham McNulty said: “Proceeds of crime are laundered in many different ways. While cash still remains king in the criminal word, as digital platforms develop we’re increasingly seeing organised criminals using cryptocurrency to launder their dirty money. “Whilst some years ago this was fairly unchartered territory, we now have highly trained officers and specialist units working hard in this space to remain one step ahead of those using it for illicit gain. “The detectives on this case have worked tirelessly and meticulously to trace millions of pounds worth of cryptocurrency suspected of being linked to criminality and now being laundered to hide the trail. Those linked to this money are clearly working hard to hide it. Our investigation will stop at nothing to disrupt the transfer and identify those involved.” source
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Two men who were part of a gang who broke into a property in Enfield and then shot a man have been convicted of attempted murder.
Asharn Williams, 22, (03.02.1999), of Tylers Gate, Harrow, and Mickell Barnett, 21, (21.01.2000) of no fixed address, were convicted on Tuesday, 13 July, after a six-week trial at Snaresbrook Crown Court. They will be sentenced on Friday, 24 September at the same court. Murder vs manslaughter what is the difference ? The jury heard that on 23 February 2019, a two-car convoy containing gang members from Brent travelled to an address in Enfield, intent on causing serious harm. Just before 01:00hrs, a group of males, including Williams and Barnett, broke into a home in Enfield armed with a shotgun. Three occupants inside the property, fearing for their lives, fled upstairs. The 26-year-old victim – unconnected to gangs - attempted to barricade himself behind a flimsy internal door, pushing against his attackers to try and save his life. At this point a shotgun was fired twice simultaneously through the door hitting the victim’s abdomen, causing life threatening injuries. The attackers then fled the property, leaving the victim seriously wounded, and returned to Brent. The complex investigation was passed to Trident detectives from the Specialist Crime Command North West Hub. They interviewed an extensive number of witnesses, and CCTV and mobile phone enquires led them to the identify and arrest of a number of suspects. complex crime solicitors Although there were no forensics at the scene, via painstaking analysis of automatic number pate recognition – ANPR – and phone evidence, detectives placed the defendants at the scene of the attack. The prosecution also showed evidence from a drill music video which revealed both Williams and Barnett, and which featured other gang affiliates. The investigation revealed gang tensions around north west London identified a motive for escalating violence in the area. DC Anthony Sinclair, of Operation Trident, said: “This was a completely mindless attack on a young man. The defendants’ actions were callous and heartless – effectively leaving a man to die at the scene. “The victim is still recovering from his injuries. The impact on the victim and his family have been devastating. “This has been a trying and challenging case but I'm extremely relieved that today a jury found them guilty of the crimes. It takes dangerous offenders off the streets and helps keep London safe. ‘’ The victim’s mother said: "As a result of being shot close hand with a faulty shotgun, my son sustained significant injuries during the incident. On his road to recovery he has undergone numerous surgeries and is also likely to be subjected to more surgical interventions in the future to try and manage some of the damage that has resulted from the attack. "The impact of the shooting on the victim and his family have been significant. In addition to managing the physical injuries, we have also been left extremely traumatised as a result of the shooting. “The shooting was gang-related, however the victim is not and has never been part of a gang. Notwithstanding this, his life has still be severely impacted by the violence and the chaos resulting from gang activity in the capital and the ongoing and often petty disputes between opposing gangs that have significant consequences. "The family are very grateful to the Metropolitan Police for their efforts to both identify and punish the individuals responsible for the attack, and to help us understand the events that took place that night. "Unfortunately the police were not able to charge all of the individuals they believe are responsible for the shooting. However our family is still very grateful that they were able to bring charges against some of the individuals who were involved in this incident, and that these people will face the consequences of their choices and actions and will no longer present a significant threat to public safety.'' source
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A former bank employee who fraudulently stole more than £74,000 from members of her own family has been jailed.
Hien Ly, 40 (18.01.81) of The Drake, Deptford, appeared at Woolwich Crown Court on Monday, 12 July and was sentenced to 28 months' imprisonment after she pleaded guilty to seven counts of fraud by false representation. She was sentenced to an additional 12 months imprisonment to run concurrently for a further count of fraud by false representation. From November 2012 to May 2019, whilst employed by a bank in Greenwich High Street as member of counter staff, Ly used her position to fraudulently steal large sums of money from three members of her family. In a premeditated plan, Ly would take large sums of money off the victims and state she was putting it into “investments’’ and to purchase properties. She told the victims that as she had a good position as an employee in the bank, she would get good rates and deals for them. Once the victims were trapped into a deal with Ly, she would then continue to request further funds from them, stating that costs had changed, more money was needed or the property or investments would be lost if more money was not forthcoming from the victims. The victims lost a combined total of £74,620.97 in the series of frauds. It was fraud by misrepresentation Ly was arrested at her workplace by officers on 20 May 2019 after being reported via Action Fraud. Police Constable Stewart Bold, from the Economic Crime Team, said:“Ly manipulated her position as a bank employee to gain the trust of her victims, before fraudulently stealing more than £74,000. Her victims saw her as successful and put their faith in her, investing large sums of money and believing it was not only safe but going to gain them profits in the future. “Ly did not invest any of this money and, despite supplying the victims with documents showing financial returns and property purchases, she used it to fund her own lavish lifestyle. She left the victims without savings and at a great financial loss through her greed and selfishness. The sentencing today reflects the severity of her actions and the shocking nature of this crime - all the more so given she targeted her own family. I hope today's result goes some way to bringing the victims justice and closure." More Fraud Cases Travel Fraud Lawyer Jailed For fraud Modern Slavery & Fraud source
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Summary of the Case Below: The case revolves around Daniel Burrell, a 40-year-old man of no fixed address, who was sentenced for the manslaughter of Barrington Davis in Lewisham, London. Mr Davis's body was discovered in his flat after neighbours noticed a strange smell. The post-mortem examination revealed the cause of death to be multiple stab wounds. Burrell was arrested on suspicion of murder, initially released under investigation, and subsequently charged with murder in November 2019. However, following the trial at the Old Bailey, he was convicted of manslaughter. He was given a Section 37 Hospital Order, which ensures he is detained indefinitely in a secure psychiatric hospital. A Section 41 Restriction Order was also applied to regulate potential future release into the community.
Part of the Law: The law here primarily involves criminal law, specifically laws relating to manslaughter and murder. Murder is the unlawful killing of another human being with malice aforethought, whereas manslaughter lacks the element of malice. The jury convicted Burrell of manslaughter instead of murder, which could indicate that they did not find enough evidence of premeditation or intention to kill. Still, it held Burrell responsible for Davis's death. In terms of the sentences given, the Section 37 Hospital Order is a type of sentence under the Mental Health Act 1983 of UK law. This is applied when an offender is deemed to be suffering from a mental disorder of a nature or degree, warranting detention in a hospital for assessment (or for assessment followed by medical treatment). The Section 41 Restriction Order can be imposed alongside a Hospital Order. This is typically used when it is necessary to protect the public from serious harm. Possible Outcomes or Sentencing: Considering the case details, if the jury had found enough evidence of premeditation or intention, they could have convicted Burrell of murder, which carries a mandatory life sentence in the UK. The specific length of time to be served before being eligible for parole would depend on the circumstances of the crime. Alternatively, if Burrell had been deemed mentally fit and convicted of manslaughter, he could have faced a custodial sentence in prison instead of a psychiatric hospital. The sentence length would have been at the judge's discretion, guided by sentencing guidelines. Manslaughter sentences can range from a few years to life imprisonment, depending on the case's specifics. Finally, if the court had not applied for a Section 41 Restriction Order, it would have given more leeway for Burrell's release once the hospital team responsible for his care deemed him no longer a risk, subject to review by a mental health tribunal. The restriction order means that the Ministry of Justice must also agree to his discharge, adding an extra layer of public safety. A man has been sentenced for the manslaughter of Barrington Davis in Lewisham. Daniel Burrell, 40 (09.09.80) of no fixed address, appeared at the Old Bailey on Wednesday, 14 July where he was sentenced to a Section 37 Hospital Order enforcing he remain indefinitely detained in a secure psychiatric hospital. A Section 41 Restriction Order was added providing stringent control over any possibility of his release back into the community. Burrell was convicted at the same court on Tuesday, 13 July by a jury that returned a unanimous verdict finding him guilty of the manslaughter of Barrington Davis. Business crime solicitors Sheffield The jury heard at around 07:00hrs on Wednesday, 16 May 2019, police were called to an address at Torridon Road, SE6. The call was made after a resident at the multi-occupancy property raised concerns when a smell began to emanate from Mr Davis’s flat. Officers attended the address and forced entry to the flat finding the body of 54-year-old Barrington Davis inside. It was clear that he had been dead for some time. A special post-mortem took place at Greenwich Mortuary on Sunday, 19 May 2019 and found the cause of death to have been multiple stab-wounds. Daniel Burrell, then aged 39, was arrested on 18 May 2019 on suspicion of murder. He was released under investigation following police enquires was charged with Mr Davis’s murder on 4 November 2019. Burrell appeared for trial at the Old Bailey and, on 13 July was convicted of manslaughter. He was remanded in custody for sentencing as above. Detective Inspector Jo Sidaway of the Met’s Specialist Crime Command said: “Our thoughts today are with the family of Barrington Davis. “We may never know the circumstances surrounding his death and it saddens me to leave his loved ones with so many questions unanswered. I hope that they find a measure of closure now that legal proceedings are at an end. “I agree with the verdict and the sentence handed down and am relieved that Daniel Burrell will now receive the medical help that he needs in an environment where he is not a danger to others.” A spokesperson for Barrington’s family said: "Barrington was an intelligent, well-dressed, music-loving, funny and caring father, brother and uncle, who we will all miss dearly. "The verdict of manslaughter has brought some form of closure to our family and although this won’t bring Barrington back, we feel as though justice has prevailed. There will always be a void left in our hearts." source
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A man has been jailed for a series of sexual assaults in Wanstead.
Caise Bidounga, 22 (05.04.99) of St Andrews Road, Ilford, appeared at Snaresbrook Crown Court on Friday, 9 July where he was sentenced to five-and-a-half years' imprisonment, three years extended licence and to be on the Sex Offenders Register for life. He previously appeared at the same court on 18 December 2020 where he pleaded guilty to one count of attempted rape, three counts of sexual assault and three counts of exposure. Between 11 and 17 September 2020, Bidounga exposed himself to, or sexually assaulted, seven women at Roding Valley Park. The victims were aged between 18 and 42 years old. On 17 September 2020, he committed four of the seven offences. Police received a report on 17 September 2020 of an 18-year-old woman having been sexually assaulted in Roding Valley Park. An investigation was launched by detectives from East Area Command during which further victims were identified. A police appeal for witnesses was issued as part of the investigation and this too identified further victims. Bidounga was arrested on 19 September 2020 and was charged with one offence the following day; he was charged with the remaining six offences on 24 October 2020. what happens if you are accused of sexual assault ? Detective Sergeant Laura Martin, said: “Bidounga’s attacks were clearly escalating. Over the course of one week he went from exposing himself to a woman to actually sexually assaulting four women in one day. “This case demonstrates perfectly the need for offences such as this to be reported to police. Even if nobody is injured, sexual predators cannot be permitted to roam free posing a threat to women and girls. “Despite none of the women sustaining physical injuries, the effects of being a victim of a sexual offence can be long lasting and we are very grateful to those women who came forward to support this investigation and hope they feel that justice has been served. “I have no doubt, that had they not come forward, Bidounga would have continued in his escalating pattern of offending.” + Anyone who has been a victim of a sexual offence should contact police on 101. In an emergency always dial 999. Sexual Offences Solicitors Advice and details of organisations that offer support can be found via our website source
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A 16-year-old boy who was fatally stabbed in Thornton Heath last week has been named as Demarie Omare Roye.
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The Met is enhancing its response and support to victims of domestic abuse across London.
Domestic abuse is one of the most complex and largest risk areas the Met deals with. Throughout the various phases of lockdown there was significant concern that victims of domestic abuse or those in difficult domestic settings could feel trapped with no access to help. We launched Predatory Offender Units across London to identify and arrest the most serious offenders and reduce the risk of repeat offending. Officers have made more than 1,700 arrests since November 2020. To continue developing our response to domestic abuse we have launched an online reporting system and have adopted the Domestic Abuse Matters cultural change programme, in collaboration with the domestic abuse charity SafeLives. The programme has been funded by the Mayor of London. Domestic Abuse Matters was designed for the College of Policing by SafeLives and other stakeholders to transform the response to domestic abuse, ensuring the the victim's voice is prioritised. Former officers and domestic abuse practitioners will work together to train 8,000 frontline officers to ensure they can identify and gather evidence of coercive controlling behaviour, recognise perpetrator tactics and understand the dynamics of domestic abuse. We are committed to protecting those who are at risk whenever and however we can. controlling and coercive behaviour solicitor Detective Superintendent Matthew Pilch, the Met's lead response officer for domestic abuse, said: “I am delighted that we are able to roll this training out across the Met to our key frontline officers who are the first to attend domestic abuse calls across the capital. “We are developing the ability of our officers to spot subtle signs, behaviour and traits of all forms of domestic abuse. It is key that we understand signs of coercive and controlling behaviour, how best to identify and gather evidence of domestic abuse, challenge victim blaming and help them to recognise the signs of manipulation used by perpetrators. “The new online reporting tool is also a huge step forward. It enables those who can’t pick up the phone, who can’t attend a police station or seek help through traditional means to report through a safe, secure and specially designed system. I hope this encourages and enables anyone in fear to seek help. Everyone has a right to feel safe at home, and we have a vital part to play in ensuring that is the case. We are here for you.” Coercive controlling behaviour can be a single act or pattern of threats, humiliation, intimidation or other abuse used to harm, punish, or frighten a victim. This behaviour is used to create subordination or dependency by isolating the individual from support. Victims are often exploited for personal gain, and are deprived of the means to live independently or escape. The offender is often a partner and may be the parent of their children, so the victim could be fearful about what calling for help may mean for their children. Similarly victims may have concerns about finance or housing. Alongside this training, we have also launched a new bespoke online reporting system. The safety of the victim was paramount when designing the platform – it has an easily accessible button allowing someone reporting to leave the site quickly if they are disturbed. To mitigate any potential risk, the victim will not automatically receive a copy of the form. what happens if you have been falsely accused of Sexual abuse Pete Williams, head of Domestic Abuse Matters at SafeLives, said: “We are pleased to be working with the Metropolitan Police and a fantastic team of experienced associate trainers to deliver DA Matters, a cultural change programme created with survivors designed to create long-term, sustainable change. “We know that the Met becoming an adopter force of DA Matters will be welcome news for victims and survivors of domestic abuse, as the programme is designed to increase awareness and understanding of coercive and controlling behaviour and create attitudinal change throughout the entire force. “Independent research carried out by Professor Iain Brennan shows the positive and sustained impact of the programme – DA Matters was associated with a 41 per cent increase in arrests for controlling and coercive behaviour for adopter forces compared to forces who have not yet adopted the programme. “Londoners and police officers alike want to know that the criminal justice response to domestic abuse is as good as it can be. The Met adopting DA Matters is an important step towards that.” In the training, officers will discuss different types of behaviour, all of which amount to abuse, for example if the perpetrator has taken control of the victim’s phone, prevented them from leaving home or forced them to reveal their location at all times – even to the extent of being made to wear a monitoring device. Perpetrators may isolate victims from support and access to friends and family, resulting in victims sometimes withdrawing from the world around them. The training will help to reassure victims that if they call for help, they will receive an empathetic response from the police who will understand why it's important that all their issues including those around housing, mental health and support for children should be addressed, alongside referral to specialist domestic abuse services. The correct police response for victims of domestic abuse is vital, and DA Matters equips officers to get it right the first time, every time. Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime, Sophie Linden, said: “It is vital that victims reporting abuse have the trust and confidence that the police will support them, and take their allegations seriously. It’s really important we give our officers the tools to support victims and that’s why City Hall has invested £700,000 in Domestic Abuse Matters training for Metropolitan Police officers, to help improve the response given to domestic abuse victims. “This important training aims to increase officers’ knowledge of coercive control, the experiences of male and LGBTQ+ victims, and challenge victim-blaming and stereotypes. It will help frontline police officers, who are the first responders, to spot the early signs of domestic abuse, better understand the tactics used by perpetrators, and ensure victims’ safety.” To report domestic abuse online visit www.met.police.uk – in an emergency dial 999 source
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Man jailed for rape in Croydon7/8/2021 A man has been jailed for 18 years after admitting multiple sexual offences committed against a child.
Adeyinka Oluwaseyi Ajose, 64 (10.07.56) of Croydon was sentenced to 18 years in prison on Thursday, 17 June at Croydon Crown Court for four counts of the rape of a female child under 13, one count of the sexual assault of a female child under 13 and one count of assault/ ill treatment of a child. He had pleaded guilty to the offences at the same court on Thursday, 29 April. The court heard that police were called to a residential address in Addington, Croydon at 21:13hrs on 10 November 2020. On arrival, officers spoke with the victim who alleged several counts of sexual abuse, committed by Ajose over several months. The victim was under 13-years-old at the time the offences took place and known to Ajose. An investigation was launched and Ajose was arrested the following day at approximately 21:20hrs after officers located him near the victim’s home. Ajose was charged on 13 November 2020 and remanded in custody to appear before Croydon Crown Court on 13 November 2020. Detective Constable Matthew Amos, the investigating officer, said:“Those that abuse the trust of the most vulnerable in our society are some of the most insidious offenders. The offences committed by Ajose are truly shocking and the sentence he has received reflects this. “If the victim had not had the courage to come forward, Ajose's campaign of abuse may well have continued. I urge anyone who has been a victim of sexual abuse or who knows anything about it, to come forward to police. We have specially trained officers who will listen to and support you. "The trauma that victims suffer can last a lifetime and impacts all those around them. I hope that the sentence given will go some way to bringing the victim and her family justice, so that they can begin to rebuild their lives. “I would also like to thank the victim for her bravery and support throughout this investigation." + If you have been a victim of sexual assault or rape or you have information about an offender, contact police on 101 or 999 in an emergency – there are specially trained officers who will listen and investigate where needed. Further information, including details of agencies and charities that can offer support can be found on our website. source
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Man guilty of Hatton Garden murder7/8/2021 A man who bludgeoned a work colleague to death on a construction site they were working on in central London has been found guilty of murder.
Elton Sefa, 24 (09.08.96), of no fixed address, was found guilty of murdering 47-year-old John Woodward at the conclusion of a trial at the Old Bailey on Tuesday 29, June. He will be sentenced at the same court on Thursday, 8 July. The court heard how John Woodward was employed as a site foreman by a construction firm which was working on a building in Hatton Garden, EC1. Sefa was a labourer who had worked with John for around seven months prior to the murder on a number of building sites. He had used a false name ‘Frankie’ and false personal details in order to get the job. The pair are said to have got on well. However, a colleague had mentioned that the day before the murder there appeared to be some tension after John had become annoyed that Sefa had cleared away their tools early. It also was established that Sefa had recently queried his weekly pay which John had taken up on his behalf with the company – however, it was confirmed that the pay was correct. On 17 April 2018, both men had arrived for work at the site in Hatton Garden. Security cameras from in and around the construction site show both of them going about their work. While other workmen were present, only Sefa and John were working on the fourth floor of the site. Shortly after 14:00hrs, Sefa was seen on camera to walk up the stairs from the staff room on the first floor – as he walked he appeared to be checking behind him. He then assaulted John with a metal scaffolding pole, striking him a number of times on the head. Sefa then fled the building site leaving John lying injured on the deserted fourth floor area. It was at around 14:40hrs that John’s body was discovered by another worker and the alarm was raised. The emergency services attended but nothing could be done and John died at the scene at 15:07hrs. A post-mortem examination subsequently confirmed he had died as a result of blunt force trauma to the head. John had also suffered lacerations to his neck possibly caused by a blood stained Stanley knife found nearby. Officers immediately began an investigation and quickly established that Sefa, also known as ‘Frankie’, had left the building site without signing out. After studying security cameras, they also found the footage of Sefa making his way to the fourth floor area immediately prior to the attack and then fleeing with what appeared to be blood on his hands. By 20:00hrs that evening, Sefa had boarded a flight to Amsterdam and he then made his way to his native Albania. Sefa’s real identity was confirmed and he was arrested by the Albanian authorities on 28 February 2019 before being extradited back to the UK in January 2020. difference between murder and manslaughter uk Detective Inspector James Howarth from the Met’s Specialist Crime led the investigation and said: “John was a loving and caring family man and supervisor who was attacked in the cowardly manner by the man who John had overseen for the previous seven months. Elton Sefa has refused to say why he attacked John in such a brutal and frenzied way and that has only added to the distress for John’s family. “To John’s family, I express my admiration for your patience, fortitude and dignity which you demonstrated over the past three traumatic and very difficult years. I hope that now Elton Sefa has been convicted of John’s murder, you can begin to rebuild your lives and move on from this traumatic episode. “This has been a complex and protracted investigation and I would like to thank all those involved for their diligence and tenacity in ensuring Sefa was brought back to the UK to face justice. “To those who commit horrendous and barbarous offences - do not believe that by leaving these shores you are safe. We will find you. We will extradite you. You will face justice.” source
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Yonattan Aroldy Gonzalez Pineda, 33, (20.12.87) of no fixed abode, was sentenced to a total of 11-and-a-half years' imprisonment at Wood Green Crown Court on Thursday, 1 July. He had previously been found guilty at the same court on Friday, 26 March, following a joint trial for the grievous bodily harm of a woman in Southwark and the false imprisonment, grievous bodily harm and rape of a woman in Haringey.
The court heard that on 30, November 2019 Pineda harassed a woman, known to him at a bar in Southwark. Whilst at the bar, Pineda attempted to engage in conversation with the woman, despite her repeatedly stating for him to leave her alone. The woman decided to leave the bar with her friend. Unbeknown to them, Pineda followed them out. He then assaulted the woman and hit her with a glass bottle leaving her with lacerations to the face. The women ran away to a nearby police station to report it, where the woman received medical treatment. Pineda was subsequently arrested on 3 December 2019 and charged by postal requisition on 9 April with grievous bodily harm (GBH). He was bailed to appear at Inner London Crown Court for trial on 7 May 2020. On 23 June 2020 whilst awaiting trial, Pineda assaulted, imprisoned and raped a woman who was visiting his house in West Green Road in Haringey. The woman reported the incident to police the next day and officers launched a search for his whereabouts. He was arrested on 4 July 2020 on suspicion of rape, false imprisonment and GBH. He remained in custody until he was charged on 6 July 2020 with GBH, false imprisonment and rape. Pineda pleaded not guilty to all counts for both incidents. Following a two week trial at Wood Green Crown Court on 15 March, 2021, he was found guilty for the following counts; - Two counts of grievous bodily harm; - False imprisonment; - Rape. Detective Constable Myles Bossman, from the Met's North Area Public Protection Team said: “Pineda is highly dangerous individual who had been quite rightly jailed for a significant period of time. He has subjected two women who he formed a relationship with to significant violence and has shown no remorse for his actions. This sentence is welcomed as it sends a clear message that such acts will not be tolerated.” Source
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A man has been jailed after slashing a man’s artery that caused him to technically die for 20 minutes on Boxing Day 2019.
Taner Saltan, 28 (23.05.93), of Northumberland Grove, N17 pleaded guilty to grievous bodily harm and possessing a sharp pointed article in a public place at Wood Green Crown Court on Friday, 14 August 2020. On Thursday, 1 July he was sentenced to life imprisonment, with a minimum term of seven years and four months for the vicious attack. He has never once provided an explanation for his actions. The victim, then aged 39, was attacked by a number of people in Green Lanes, N13 on the afternoon of 26 December 2019 after celebrating Christmas Day with two friends. While he and his friends were waiting at a bus stop at approximately 01:30hrs an altercation broke out between him and a group of four men, including Saltan, who had pulled up in a car. He was punched to the ground by one man and his friends were chased away. A short while later the victim, who had managed to get back to the bus stop, was set upon again by three of the group, including Saltan. The victim ran towards Sidney Avenue, N13, but was overcome by the group. Saltan was caught on CCTV hitting the man several times in the groin with a stabbing motion while one of the other men punched the victim. Saltan was seen dragging the victim out of the road before he and the two other men walked away, leaving their victim bleeding in the street. Police and London Ambulance Service were called and found the victim with two stab wounds that had severed an artery and caused a catastrophic bleed. A tourniquet was applied and, although the victim was clinically dead for 20s minutes, paramedics managed to bring him back to life by performing surgery and heart massage in the street. He was taken to hospital and has since made a full recovery. The investigation was led by the North Area CID team who trawled through CCTV and made extensive enquiries to track down the suspects. Saltan had fled the country to Switzerland on an unknown date but was arrested at Heathrow on 26 May 2020 after flying back from Zurich. He gave a no comment interview and has never explained to officers why he viciously attacked his victim, who he had never seen before. Detective Constable Sipho Gumpo, who led the investigation, said: "This was a merciless attack and it was extremely lucky that the victim pulled through after his ordeal. “Not once has Saltan uttered a word of explanation, or remorse, for his crime. He will now have time in prison to think about that night and I hope, at some point, it dawns on him what a cowardly and horrific thing he did. “The victim has since made a full recovery and, while this sentence won’t ever make this right, I am glad we’ve been able to secure justice for him. "The Met will continue to work tirelessly to identify and pursue offenders, help bring perpetrators to justice, take weapons off the street, support victims and keep our communities safe. I hope that this sentencing at least makes people realise that, if you carry a knife, you will suffer consequences. Not only do you ruin others' lives, you risk ruining your own.” source
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A teenager who drew up an agreement with a “demon” to sacrifice women in exchange for a lottery win has been convicted of the murders of sisters Bibaa Henry and Nicole Smallman.
Danyal Hussein created a handwritten plan, signed in his own blood, in which he pledged to murder six women every six months; in return requesting financial reward. In the early hours of Saturday, 6 June 2020, he made good on his pact, killing complete strangers Bibaa and Nicole in a pre-meditated attack that officers believe saw him observe them for some time before stabbing both to death in Fryent Country Park, Wembley. Hussein, 19 (10.05.02) of Guy Barnet Grove, Eltham was found guilty by a unanimous jury following a four-week trial at the Old Bailey for the murders of 46-year-old Bibaa and 27-year old Nicole, and possession of an offensive weapon. He will be sentenced at the same court on September 22. Senior investigating officer in the case, Detective Chief Inspector Simon Harding, from the Specialist Crime Command said: “This is one of the most shocking and chilling cases I have ever dealt with, and I know the investigation will stay with all of those involved for many years to come. Hussein went out that night with the intention of killing in order to satisfy his bizarre fantasies under the deluded belief he would be rewarded with financial prosperity. His wicked acts have cut short the lives of two completely innocent women - who, even more devastatingly, were exceptionally close sisters simply out celebrating a birthday – and left family, friends and colleagues bereft, still struggling to come to terms with such a random and senseless attack. when does a life sentence mean life imprisonment ? “Bibaa and Nicole were very popular, had lots of friends and lived life to the full. Their bond and shared pleasure in being in each other’s company was clear to see from the heart-breaking images and footage which captured them together that night. It is still beyond my comprehension what impact their murders will have had on their family and friends and my thoughts are first and foremost today with them. Throughout our investigation and the subsequent trial they have shown the utmost dignity in the most unimaginable of circumstances. No normal person will be able to comprehend Hussein’s motivation but I do hope that his conviction can bring the families at least some sense of justice. “Conversely, Hussein has presented as an arrogant and egotistical character who from the outset has denied any culpability, compounding his actions by forcing the family to endure the additional trauma of a trial. He was incredibly disrespectful to witnesses and the family whilst he acted like a petulant child in the dock. Despite his planning prior to the incident, ironically it was in part his mistakes that ultimately led to his downfall, by leaving the weapon and a bloodied glove at the scene to be found and linked directly to him. Perhaps he believed the oath he signed would somehow protect him from retribution. Even though he was seen on CCTV going into his house, walking down a street and using his bank card, he maintained that it simply was not him. Even though his DNA was matched to the blood and DNA all over the crime scene, he again denied it was his DNA. I strongly believe that had he not been injured so badly that day and then apprehended he would have gone on to carry out further murders to fulfil his twisted pact, and so I am grateful the jury were able to see through his preposterous claim that he wasn’t responsible despite all the overwhelming evidence against him. “This case presented a number of challenges including a vast and complex crime scene and lack of witnesses. And despite Hussein leaving a large amount of his blood at the scene, with no match on the DNA database we found ourselves in a frustrating position. Determined to find the person responsible as a matter of urgency, hundreds of officers were deployed to the investigation, from forensic officers gathering vital evidence, search and dive teams carrying out fingertip searches to local officers on reassurance patrols. The additional familial work carried out on the DNA sample led us to Hussein. My officers then carried out meticulous CCTV enquiries which provided a clear picture of his movements both that night and in the days leading up to the incident, as well as a hospital visit the following day. It is this work which I believe created a watertight case against Hussein. I would also like to acknowledge the overwhelming support of the public, who provided information, statements and footage which proved crucial to our investigation.” On the evening of Friday 5 June, Bibaa had arranged a small gathering to celebrate her 46thbirthday in Fryent Country Park in Wembley; the location within the park she chose being a well-known spot for panoramic views across London. CCTV footage captured Bibaa and her 27-year-old sister Nicole at around 19.30hrs in the Kingsbury Co-Op buying some food and drinks for the party. They appeared to be in good spirits, with Nicole seen having a chat with a man next to her at the checkout. From here they made their way to the park, CCTV again showing them entering via the Slough Lane entrance just before 19.40hrs. Once inside they headed to the top of the hill and “set up camp”. The weather was good and, over the course of the evening, friends arrived for the gathering where they ate, drank, played cards and listened to music. As darkness fell, guests started to leave, and by midnight the sisters were alone. Clearly keen to continue the celebrations the pair played music and danced with fairy lights. At 01.04hrs Nicole sent a text message to her boyfriend saying that she was “dancing in a field”. This was the last time he would hear from her. The pair had set up Bibaa’s phone to take a series of images using a clicker device, recording 150 images in sequence of them dancing and having fun. In the final image, captured at 01.13hrs, now on Saturday, 6 June, Bibaa and Nicole could be seen looking to their left as if distracted by something. We believe their attention had been drawn to Hussein’s arrival. Hussein’s night had started at around 19.45hrs when he was seen leaving a family address in Old Kenton Lane, Kingsbury – which is minutes from Fryent Country Park. He was wearing blue medical gloves and a mask (given the ongoing pandemic this was probably not an unusual sight) and carrying a rucksack. He walked to a nearby bus stop where he took the Number 204 bus to Edgware Road, entering Morrisons’ supermarket where he bought some alcohol and collected an Amazon delivery of a full-face balaclava and two folding shovels contained within a pouch. All of the items were placed in his rucksack, and he made his way to Fryent Country Park arriving via the Larkspur Close entrance at around 20.40hrs. The birthday party would have been a five-minute walk from here and clearly visible given the location of the group. There is no CCTV coverage within the park, but Hussein remained inside for four hours. Whilst unclear what he was doing all that time, it is likely he saw Bibaa and Nicole and spent some time observing them before approaching them. The exact circumstances of the murders remain unclear, but it is believed that Bibaa was killed first – taken by surprise by Hussein and quickly overpowered. She was stabbed eight times. The attack on Nicole was frenzied and relentless, resulting in her suffering a total of 28 stab wounds. In addition, she received a number of cuts to her arms, hands and legs, suggesting she put up a significant and incredibly brave fight. Following the murders it is believed Hussein dragged both bodies up to 75m to a wooded area seemingly in an effort to hide them from public view. He then attempted to clean up the scene, placing a number of items from the party in rubbish bags or concealing them in the wooded area and throwing the victims’ mobile phones into a pond within the park. CCTV footage captured Hussein finally leaving the park at 04.07hrs via the same entrance / exit. Moments later he was seen returning home, minus his trousers, with his jacket tied around his waist and right hand tucked into the makeshift waistband. Neither his jacket nor the missing trousers were ever found by police. Bibaa and Nicole were reported missing on the evening of Saturday, 6 June by friends and family when they failed to return home and were uncontactable. At around lunchtime on Sunday, 7 June some of those closest to the sisters went to the park to carry out their own search. There they found glasses belonging to both Bibaa and Nicole, as well as a knife. Devastatingly, whilst on the phone to police seeking advice about what they had found, the bodies of the sisters were discovered. Police and paramedics were swiftly on scene and a large area of the park was cordoned off. A murder investigation was launched under DCI Harding. Due to its size and make up, the scene posed a significant challenge, and crime scene examiners spent three weeks conducting fingertip searches of the area, leading to the discovery of a number of relevant items. Officers were directed to a kitchen knife found by those friends who had been searching the park. Due to heavy rainfall, the upper side of the knife was clean, however the underside was heavily blood stained. That blood would later be found to belong to Hussein. A spot of Nicole’s DNA was also present. Among the foliage of the hedgerow close to where the bodies were discovered, officers found bottles from the party which Hussein had discarded. They were stained with blood – subsequently identified as his. His blood was also found on leaves and branches close to where the bodies were discovered. Between this site and the pond, two latex gloves were found one inside the other. One was heavily stained with Hussein’s then unidentified blood and was damaged in the areas where his hand was later seen to have been cut. Police divers carried out a search of the pond and recovered the victims’ mobile phones. On Saturday, 6 June, a member of public doing a clear up of the park had found the rubbish bags left by Hussein and placed them next to a bin. They were later removed by the local council to a nearby refuse site. When subsequently recovered by officers, these bags were found to contain two blankets and cushions – which had been taken to the scene by Bibaa and Nicole - stained with blood. This was later identified as Hussein’s. Officers searched through 120 tonnes of rubbish. Analysis of Bibaa’s mobile phone indicated that Hussein had tried repeatedly to access the handset, as the screen was turned on and off more than 130 times between 01:26 and 03:48 hours. It is believed by officers that Hussein was concerned his image had been captured by the camera and he was attempting to unlock the phone so he could delete any evidence of his presence. In addition, the step counter on the handset revealed that whilst in possession of the handset Hussein had walked the equivalent of 2km. At 03.48hrs the handset display was turned off for the last time, which is likely when he threw the phones into the pond and left the park. Given the relative rarity of a stranger murder, let alone involving two victims, officers spent much of the initial investigation ruling out those known to the women. Once it was established that an unknown person was responsible, detectives set about working against the clock to identity the perpetrator. Detectives pored through hours of CCTV, doorbell and dash-cam footage, provided in many cases by those living and working in the area, and took hundreds of statements in the initial days and weeks following the murders. Aware that the glove discovered at the scene meant the killer had clearly injured their hand, officers made a public plea to anyone who may have noticed a relative with a significant hand injury to come forward. While the blood samples were a significant find for officers - providing a full DNA profile - without a match on the database their efforts were frustrated. Determined to make every use of the opportunities the profile offered, DCI Harding and his team worked with the National Crime Agency to undertake familial work in an attempt to identify relatives of the suspect. They struck gold when an individual was identified as part of this process and through further enquiries were led directly to Danyal Hussein. In the early hours of Wednesday, 1 July, Hussein was arrested at his Eltham address. The first thing officers noticed when face-to-face with the then 18-year-old were the cuts to his hand; consistent with those which would have been sustained by the suspect. He was taken into police custody and charged the following day after his DNA was confirmed as that found at the scene. Officers were now able to direct their CCTV enquiries with greater precision and in addition to the footage revealing Hussein’s movements on the night of the murder, were able to build up a better picture and stronger case against him when they discovered his activity in the days leading up to and following the incident. Two days before the murders, on Wednesday, 3 June, Hussein had travelled to Asda in Colindale where CCTV showed him buying a knife block containing five knives. Producing a passport to purchase the knives, he chose to pay most of the amount by card and the remainder in cash. Unable to fit the knife block into the blue rucksack he had brought along with him, he placed it in a carrier bag. Hours later he returned to the supermarket, this time buying some Unibond power tape – described as “extra strong and resilient”. While officers found no evidence that the tape was used during the murders, it is believed his purpose for purchasing it was to form part of his murderous plans. Enquiries revealed that at around 16.20hrs on Saturday, 6 June - around 12 hours after he had left the crime scene - Hussein attended Northwick Park Hospital seeking treatment to his injured hand, believed to have been sustained when the knife had likely slipped during the attack on Nicole. Telling staff he had received the injuries during a robbery the previous night, he insisted he did not want to report the matter to police and refused to provide further details. He was referred for surgery at the Royal Free the following day where his wounds were stitched, and he attended a follow up appointment on 15 June. During a search of Hussein’s bedroom officers discovered what seemed to account for a motive - a handwritten note purporting to be a contract with a demon, where Hussein pledged to “perform a minimum of six sacrifices every six months” and to “sacrifice only women”. Under the headline “For Me” were the words: “Win the Mega Millions Super Jackpot”. The document was signed in Hussein’s blood and on top were three lottery tickets, which he had purchased following the murders. Also recovered during the house search was the balaclava – discovered at the bottom of Hussein’s wardrobe and with his DNA present - and shovel pouch which Hussein had picked up from Morrisons on the night of the murder, as well as his rucksack. One of two shovels was missing from the pouch and has never been recovered. Whilst there was no specific proof that these items were used by Hussein on the night of 5 June, he didn’t return home after picking up the items and before heading into the park. As such officers believe they were at least in his possession (ie. in the rucksack) when he committed the murders. On 4 June, Hussein set up a Megamillions lottery account online, making a number of purchases after the murders between 7 June and 16 June. Likely fearing he could be linked to the incident, on 16 June he reported his bank card as stolen, claiming that a number of purchases made from 3 June onwards were nothing to do with him. As a result, he was later recompensed the money he had spent on items including the knife block, shovels, Unibond Tape and balaclava, as well as three separate online Lottery purchases. But he was caught in a lie, when he was seen on supermarket CCTV making purchases with the card on 10 June. When Hussein was arrested on 1 July his response to police was: “Yeah – that’s near my grandma’s address.” When asked by the custody sergeant how he had suffered the injuries to his hand, he said he had been robbed. He later repeated this claim to a nurse who examined him, additionally stating that he suffered from autism and memory loss. Advising officers that he was willing and ready to be interviewed, he then proceeded to give no comment in response to all questions put to him. Since that day – and despite the overwhelming evidence to the contrary – he has continued to deny any involvement in the murders of Bibaa and Nicole through his trial counsel. He refused to give evidence during his trial or produce any witnesses or evidence to counter the prosecution.
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A man has been convicted of a series of random brutal attacks and stabbings.
Evans Innocent 45 (19.02.1976) of no fixed abode, was found guilty of one count of attempted murder, two counts of wounding with intent and seven counts of possession of an offensive weapon on Tuesday, 6 July. This follows a four-week trial at the Old Bailey. He will appear at the same court for sentencing on Friday, 10 September. The court heard that shortly after 06:00hrs on 21 April 2020, the victim arrived outside her work address in Islington ready to start her shift. As she walked through the parking area, she heard someone running behind her and felt a bang to the head. She was then stabbed repeatedly, in a sudden and brutal attack. The attacker ran off, taking the weapon with him. The victim was taken to a hospital in central London with four stab wounds to her head, neck and left shoulder. Fortunately she survived. If it had gone the other way he wold have been charged for manslaughter. what is manslaughter uk ? The following day when police returned to the area to continue examining the scene of the attack for reassurance and safety patrols, they saw the defendant on the street who was armed with four weapons. Officers arrested him at the scene on 22 April 2020. One of the weapons in the defendant’s possession was a black-handled knife with a large blade. The knife was examined by a forensic scientist and the victim's DNA was recovered from the tip end of the blade. In addition to the knife, police seized an iPhone XS with a SIM card, four oyster cards and clothing including a black jacket and a black balaclava. Officers used a range of tactics at their disposal to link him to two other occasions where a member of the public had been randomly stabbed; on 3 April 2020 and 7 April 2020. This was despite his extensive attempts to disguise his identity with masks and gloves. In each case, data from the mobile phone and oyster cards found in Innocent's possession at the time of his arrest, and CCTV taken from the surrounding areas, showed him to be in the vicinity at the time of the attacks. Innocent denied all allegations in interview and was charged on 24 April 2020. Detective Constable Russell Harvey said: "This was a series of premeditated, unprovoked attacks without any warning or motive. Innocent deliberately went out on the streets looking to cause harm to people in the community and his actions were nothing short of horrific. "Thanks to a dedicated investigation by Central North CID officers, the suspect was quickly identified and linked to further offences by CCTV, Oyster card and phone data. I am overwhelmingly glad that we could bring some closure and justice to the victims who suffered through such awful ordeals. These random attacks left them with serious injuries and it is incredibly fortunate that they all survived. "The result today reflects the violence of Innocent's actions. It is undeniable that a very dangerous man has been taken off the streets. The Met remains committed and dedicated to tackling violent crime and removing dangerous weapons from our communities and putting and violent offenders behind bars." Source
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A murder investigation has been launched and an arrest made following the discovery of a woman’s body.
Mee Kuen Chong, 67, known to friends as Deborah, was found in an area of woodland near to Bennett Road in Salcombe, South Devon on Monday, 27 June. Mee had been reported missing from her home in London on Friday, 11 June. Her death was initially treated as unexplained with enquiries led by Devon and Cornwall Police. A post-mortem examination took place at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital on Monday, 28 June. A cause of death has not yet been ascertained. On Tuesday, 6 July, further enquiries undertaken by Devon and Cornwall Police in South Devon and the London area led to a murder investigation being launched by the Met’s Specialist Crime Command. On the evening of Tuesday, 6 July a 36-year-old woman was arrested at a residential address in Kilburn on suspicion of murder. She remains in custody at a north London police station. A crime scene remains in place at the address and in South Devon. Police searches are likely to continue over the coming days. Mee was originally from Malaysia but has been living in Wembley for over 30 years. Her family has been updated about this development and are being supported by specially trained officers. murder vs manslaughter UK whats the difference. Detective Chief Inspector Jim Eastwood, who is leading the murder investigation, said: “The discovery of Mee’s body is a tragic development and my thoughts are with her family and friends. “At this stage, we are working on establishing the full circumstances surrounding Mee’s death and in particular her movements. I would ask anyone who saw her between Thursday, 10 June and Sunday, 27 June either in London or Devon, who has not yet spoken to police, to please come forward. “It is absolutely vital that anyone who may have information about Mee’s movements over this period share what they know to help us fully understand what happened to her.” As is standard procedure, the Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards were informed following the discovery of Mee’s body. A referral has also been made to the IOPC. An incident room has been set up. Anyone with information should call 0208 358 0300. Alternatively, information can be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111. Source |