Award-Winning Gardener Must Obey Court-Ordered Shift Pattern To Tend Blooms

Crown Court Fight: Michael Oram

An award-winning gardener, prosecuted for taking his neighbour’s shears as he tried to protect a flowering bush, has been threatened with jail if he flouts a new restriction.

Pensioner Michael Oram, 74, was preventing what he describes as “environmental vandalism”, but the act put him in breach of a ‘Crimbo’ - imposed after years of bitter gardening disputes.

The twice-married former Kew Gardens gatekeeper, of The Barons, St. Margaret’s, Twickenham pleaded guilty to breaching the Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) and will be sentenced later this year.

However, today at Kingston-upon-Thames Crown Court Judge Judith Coello told him: “You have had four years of this now and it must be wearing you down like everyone else.

“The court is trying to prevent conflict between you and your neighbours, but if you do not comply there is only one outcome I’m afraid and that’s imprisonment.

“You say you have been kept in police custody for a weekend and it wasn’t that bad because they treated you well, but it would be a different experience in Wandsworth or the Scrubs. It is horrendous.”

Oram has three conviction for harassment, plus a police caution for harassment since 2015 after leading a law-abiding life for seven decades.

The judge rejected a police and Crown Prosecution Service request to completely ban Oram from his rear garden under the terms of the CBO, but limited his allowed time to 10am-3pm, Monday to Friday.

The two-year ‘Crimbo’, imposed after Oram was convicted of harassing downstairs neighbour Jasmine McMurdo, 56, an NHS employee, also prohibits him talking to her and another neighbour and interfering with their gardening.

The Winchester College-educated retired employment agency boss once ran a King’s Road, Chelsea business, which supplied domestic staff to the aristocracy and the rich and famous.

Oram Despairs At Bush Cutting

Oram, who describes himself as a “peace-loving Buddhist”, moved into the housing association flat after losing his £3m Richmond Hill home in a divorce after an affair with he and his wife’s Peruvian au pair.

His devoted gardening secured Richmond-upon-Thames’s ‘Borough in Bloom’ silver prize and during a previous garden ban he continued tending to his plants by leaning over the wall from the street.

There have been so many police call-outs to the quiet suburban corner of Twickenham, opposite the famous film studios, locals have seen their insurance premiums rocket.

Grandfather Oram says he is being harassed and when he recently used his garden shed he found a wooden board with the message: “F*** off! Oram. Smile. You are on CCTV! Leave this alone!” 

Oram was arrested when Ms McMurdo called the police after he took away the shears she was using to trim a bush on the pathway to her basement flat on April 19.

“You cannot cut a flowering bush, you have to wait until the flowers bloom for a few weeks,” said Oram in his garden, looking horrified at the results of his neighbour’s trimming.

She has also received a police harassment warning for her behaviour towards Oram and landlord Richmond Housing installed CCTV cameras all over the property.

Challenging the prosecution application to ban him from the rear garden Oram told the court: “Richmond Housing appointed me what they call: ‘The Green Fingers.’

“I would be devastated if I could not use the garden. I would have to write-off thousands of pounds of investment in flowers, shrubs and fertilisers.

Oram Says He Was Left This Sign

“They are the size of two tennis courts and reflect my years of back-breaking effort. I also enjoy reclining in the back garden and reading the newspaper and I’ve constructed a BBQ.

“I also need to use the laundry lines to hang my washing. It saves a few pennies and every penny counts. I am a pensioner.

“I love looking out of my window at the garden, at the wildlife and birds and squirrels that feed. If I was banned the impact would be substantial.

“Ms McMurdo commenced cutting back a large flowering shrub that provides a good supply of nutrients to butterflies and bees and I advised her to wait until the plant finished flowering.

“It was just sad to see the plant decimated in that manner. She laughed and said she was going to call the police. She’d like to see me evicted, that’s her main ambition in life.”

Oram says he’s now plagued by flies around his window since Ms McMurdo put a cat litter tray outside her back door. “I think she did that to provoke me.

“These complaints are instigated by a neighbour who has a grievance against me,” he told the court.

However, prosecutor Mr. Paul Casey suggested Oram was exaggerating his love of the gardens. “What is fundamental to your life is making your neighbours and Ms McMurdo’s life a misery, isn’t it?”

Downstairs Neighbour: Jasmine McMurdo

Oram denied this, adding: “I will not stand for my right, my human rights, English law rights to be rolled over.”

Oram’s lawyer Martin Scott told the court: “He removed shears that that were on the back steps of the property, not in the rear garden. 

“He has got a right to a family life and the prosecution want to put in place orders that prevent him doing things that don’t cause anyone any harm, like gardening.

“The neighbour in her time has been warned for harassment against him and filmed him and the parties are trying to score points against each other at every turn.”

Previously Ms McMurdo said: “I have suffered harassment over the years. Mr. Oram has targeted me to drive me out and I have often been in tears.

“He has tried to make my flat uninhabitable and has now turned to vandalising my vegetables and flowers.”

She said Oram sent her a text warning: “If we don’t find peace the future is going to be very grim for you and your son.”

She added: “I’ve been torn in two. I feel so unsafe with Mr. Oram living above me.

“I feel on edge all the time. I have a feeling of dread in my chest. I never know what I’m going to walk into.

“I just wait for something to happen. I have no enjoyment at being at home anymore.”

Cabbie Controller Posed As Doctor During £15,000 Romance Fraud

A mini-cab controller, who sent his new internet fiancee a photo of him wearing hospital scrubs during a £15,000 scam, has been jailed.

Mohamad Yousef, 37, of Loxwood Road, Tottenham knocked four years off his age and claimed he was a doctor while romancing his victim.

He convinced her to take out a loan for the sum and give it to him to cover their wedding costs and was never seen again until police arrested him.

At Wood Green Crown Court Yousef pleaded guilty to fraud and was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment.

Hemet the 30-year-old female victim on a well known dating site in May 2017. 

Yousef told the victim that he was a 33-year-old doctor and sent her a picture of him wearing his hospital ‘scrubs’.

The relationship progressed quickly and the couple became engaged within the month.

At the end of May 2017, Yousef asked the victim to loan him some cash as he was short of money for their wedding, which he was arranging at the Dorchester Hotel. 

She transferred £800 into his bank account. In addition, he convinced her to take out a loan of £15,000 to cover the cost of their wedding.

However, once he had the money, Yousef broke off all contact with the victim and despite trying, she couldn’t reach him.

When she contacted the hospital where he claimed to work they had no knowledge of him. 

She called the Dorchester and found that no booking had been made for the wedding.

Mohamad could not be located and so was circulated as wanted on the Police National Computer.

On September 13, 2017 Yousef was arrested at Heathrow when he landed on a flight from Africa.

He claimed that the victim took out a loan against his wishes, but he still accepted the money from the loan into his account.

He said he received over £14,000 from the loan, but only had £6,000 left, having spent the rest on an emergency as his father was not well.

During interview Yousef was asked about the picture of him wearing hospital scrubs that he sent to the victim on the dating site. 

He claimed that the photo was taken when he was doing voluntary work with Oxfam, when he was providing vaccinations. 

He said that his actual occupation was mini-cab controller.

Detective Sergeant Milan Pandya, said: “It is so important that anyone scammed by online fraudsters comes forward so that we can make a start in putting a stop to their activities.

“Victims should absolutely not be embarrassed. These unscrupulous people are convincing and tenacious in their deceptions.

“Please don’t hesitate to contact police if you have been a victim of this crime – at the very least contact us to ensure that you receive any support that you may need.”

Customer's Revenge For Door Snub

A customer refused entry to a late night bar returned minutes later and deliberately drove his car into a group outside, inflicting broken bones and other injuries.

Mustafa Esmail, 21, was jailed for 16 years after pleading guilty to five counts of inflicting grievous bodily harm.

The Old Bailey heard that at around 3.00am on Saturday, December 2, 2017, Esmail and his group were refused entry to the bar in Stockwell Road, south London.

Esmail became aggressive and a male victim was assaulted and then threatened before he left the scene.

Minutes later, he returned in a white VW Golf, driving onto the pavement outside the bar and hitting a group of pedestrians.

He then abandoned the car and fled on foot, along with a number of other occupants of the vehicle.

The five men injured, aged between 23 and 42, suffered multiple broken bones including leg fractures, a broken shin and a spleen injury. 

A number of the victims required surgery; none suffered life changing injuries.

Officers from Lambeth CID launched an investigation and identified that the car used in the attack was a rental vehicle, hired the previous day.

A phone in the car linked it to Esmail, as did blood found on the airbag and fingerprints on the windows.

Police established that a call was made to a taxi firm minutes after the incident, with the driver confirming he picked up Esmail and two other men.

On Thursday, June 21, last year, following an extensive manhunt, Esmail was stopped on Brompton Close, Hounslow and arrested.

Despite giving false details, fingerprints revealed his true identity and he was charged in connection with the Stockwell Road offence.

Detective Constable Tom Baxter, from the Metropolitan Police's Homicide and Major Crime Command, said: “Esmail’s deliberate actions left five victims with significant injuries and it is only down to sheer good fortune and the work of the emergency services that the consequences were not more grave.

“Esmail attempted to evade police, but will now have a considerable period of time to reflect on his behaviour that night.

“We hope this sentence brings those involved some closure and demonstrates our commitment to getting individuals intent on causing harm off our streets.

“This conviction was achieved thanks to a diligent and thorough investigation by officers and is a good example of the excellent work undertaken by MPS detectives to investigate crime and bring those responsible to justice.”

Former Fiancee Of Prince Charles's Godson Accused Of Slapping Mother At £5.4m Family Home

Maria & Emma Chaing Leaving Court

The ex-fiancee of Prince Charles’ troubled godson Lord Brabourne repeatedly slapped her mother when refused £200 cash at the family’s £5.4m Chelsea home, a court heard today.

Jobless hip hop performer Emma Peggy Chaing, 31, was engaged to be married to Nicholas Knatchbull, 38, two years ago and destined to become Countess Mountbatten.

However, last January Eton-educated ex-drug addict Knatchbull revealed he was now engaged to professional mermaid Ambre Saint-Clare.

Chaing - who performs as Emma Stayhear - appeared at Westminster Magistrates Court, accompanied by her mother Maria Eye Sui Chaing, 60.

She pleaded not guilty to assault on July 16 at the family home in Royal Avenue, Chelsea, and will return for a trial on October 8.    

Prosecutor Mr. Robert Simpson told the court: “The complainant is the defendant’s mother and the defendant wanted two hundred pounds from her and the mother was unwilling to give it to her.

“She had gone to a mental health appointment and we say slapped her mother around the face two or three times, causing reddening and a small bruise.”

An allegation Chaing, who has moved out to her uncle’s home in Lillie Road, Fulham, also assaulted her father will not be proceeded with.

He is Benjamin Ka Ping Chaing, 67, company director of Cathay Investments Ltd. and her mother is a named company secretary.

The family home was purchased for £5.4m in August, 2014.

The Crown Prosecution Service were granted a witness summons to serve on Mrs Chaing to ensure she attends and co-operates with the trial.

Ms Ellen Wright, defending, said: “The case summary says ‘punching’. There was no punching and any contact was in self-defence.

“There may have been contact with hand or arm and the mother, but it certainly was not a punch.”

Unemployed Chaing is applying for Legal Aid so she can be represented at the trial.

“She is living with her uncle and still has a close relationship with her mother, her mother accompanied her to court today,” added Ms Wright.

“The defendant receives a lot of support from her mother in terms of mental health difficulties. They had a very close relationship.”

In her statement Chaing said her relationship with her parents was “not good” and she was keen to move out of the family home.

She was bailed on condition she continues residing with her uncle and does not visit Royal Avenue, Chelsea.

Prowler Wanted For East London Sex Attack

Detectives are appealing for information after a man broke into a woman’s home on the Isle of Dogs and sexually assaulted her.

Officers are now releasing a CCTV image of a man they would like to speak to in connection with the incident.

Police were called to Glengarnock Avenue at the junction with Manchester Road, Poplar at around 6.00am on Sunday, May 12 to reports of a woman assaulted at home.

The victim reported that she was asleep in bed when she was woken up by the male suspect carrying out a sexual assault.

The woman managed to run out of the room and the culprit left soon after via the front door.

Officers investigating the incident believe the same man was seen in another flat in the block just moments before.

Again, the occupants woke up to find the man in their bedroom, who then turned and left before he could be confronted.

The suspect is believed to be a white male, in his twenties, and at the time was dressed in black, wearing a black coat with a white collar and white trainers.

Detective Constable Daniel Cooke, from the Metropolitan Police's Central East CID, said: “This was a terrifying assault for a young woman who woke up to find someone in her own bedroom, a place she should have been safe.

“We are keen to hear from anyone who might recognise the man in this image, particularly from the clothing he can be seen wearing. 

“Enquiries into both break-ins continue.

“Any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, can be reported to us by calling 101 with reference 1575/12May or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Albanian Murder Suspect On The Run

Police are hunting a suspected Albanian murderer wanted in his homeland.

The Metropolitan Police's Extradition Unit have released this custody image of Hektor Mahmutaj, 43, who they are hunting.

They are asking for anyone who knows his whereabouts to contact them.

Mahmutaj was arrested on January 11, last year 2018 by officers from the Extradition Unit on behalf of Albanian authorities in connection with murder charges in Albania.

On Wednesday, March 27, this year Mahmutaj absconded and breached his police bail conditions.

Officers from the Extradition Unit are actively seeking his location and urge anyone with information concerning his whereabouts to contact police on 101 quoting 6548221/17, Tweet @MetCC, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Smash-And-Grab Raider Locked-Up

A robber caught by local have-a-go-heroes after his machete-wiedling gang's smash-and-grab raid on a jewellers' has been caged.

Jason Abraham, 23, of Langdon Court, Islington, received seven years and four months imprisonment.

On Monday, May 20 at 5.00pm, seven men armed with hammers and a machete ransacked Amir Jewellers on Maida Vale, Kilburn, on mopeds, forcing two frightened workers to the basement.

One of the mopeds was used to break down the first door allowing three other members entry, where they smashed display cabinets containing gold rings, gold bracelets and diamonds, all in Arabic styles.

One of the robbers guarded the door wielding a machete leaving the remaining three on mopeds, threatening and deterring the public from coming close.

The group were there for 60 seconds before attempting to leave in different directions. 

Abraham was caught and detained by brave members of the public on Kilburn Priory. 

He was then arrested by police on their arrival.

CCTV footage showed the robbery taking place, with Abraham plainly visible on the footage wearing a black helmet with a white logo and writing.

Further footage taken from the officers’ Body Worn Video (BWV) showed members of public pointing out Abraham to police on scene, allowing officers to match what he was wearing to one of the suspects who was seen entering the premises on the CCTV footage.

Detective Sergeant Kieran Curry, of West Area Command CID said: “We are pleased that we have managed to put one member of this violent and dangerous robbery behind bars so quickly.

“He, along with the other members, endangered the lives of those who worked in the jewellers and members of the public. 

“We are grateful to the brave members of the public who risked their own safety to stop Abraham fleeing the scene of the crime, and also to the employees who alerted authorities before sheltering themselves from harm.

“We have worked incredibly hard to make sure Abraham has been convicted and put before the courts at the earliest opportunity. 

“We are still seeking the public’s help in identifying further witnesses and urge anyone who has either footage, or information to come forward so we can continue to pursue the other persons involved."

Witnesses are urged to come forward with information by calling the police on 101, quoting CAD/5738/20MAY, or anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111

Enquiries into the other six members involved in the robbery continue.

Eight Years For Gang Knife Slashing

A knifeman has been jailed for a gang-related stabbing, in which he slashed his victim's arm to the bone after chasing him into a Wembley car park.

Amari Reid, 30, received eight years imprisonment after he was found guilty at Harrow Crown Court of inflicting grievous bodily harm, plus another nine months for having a bladed article.

On June 20, last year in Hirst Crescent, North Wembley Reid was seen chasing the victim across the road and into a car park at 7.48pm, before slashing his arm with a knife and leaving the area.

The victim attended hospital with a six centimetre wound that was deep enough to show bone and required surgery, but was unwilling to provide an account to police or prosecute Reid for the attack.

Local officers of the Preston Safer Neighbourhood Team were able to identify Reid within twelve hours of the incident after reviewing CCTV footage of the area. 

A warrant was issued and his address was searched. A bag was found, matching that which officers noticed in the CCTV.

Reid subsequently handed himself in to the police following pressure after the search, and was charged with both offences.

Detective Sergeant Scott Montaut, who led the investigation, said: “Despite victims being reluctant to pursue allegations this does not mean we will let violent individuals walk away.

“This sentence shows that if you are willing to commit such violent acts, we will go to whatever lengths we can to ensure you are brought to justice.”

Inspector Toby Walton of the North West Command Unit, said: “This sentence represents the resolve of the MPS, the Crown Prosecution Service and the courts to address knife crime within the capital in a robust way.

“I am delighted that this dangerous individual is off the streets, where he can no longer harm members of the Wembley community. 

“I would like to extend my thanks to the local community, who came out in strength to denounce this offence which happened in a residential estate.

“I would also like to commend the actions of the local Preston Safer Neighbourhood Team, whose diligent investigation led to their community being protected from further harm.”

Suburban Stabbing: CCTV Images Released

Police have released these CCTV images of three suspects they are hunting after a teenager was stabbed in a tree-lined residential Norbury road.

Officers were called at approximately 3.20pm on Sunday, May 19 to reports of a man stabbed in St. Oswald's Road.

Police, the London Ambulance Service and London’s Air Ambulance attended.

A 19-year-old man was taken to a south London hospital for treatment to his injuries – he was discharged following treatment.

A 24-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder on Sunday, May 26 and released on bail - further enquiries are ongoing.

Detectives from South Area CID based at Bromley are investigating the incident and have released these CCTV images – taken from the local area - of three males who were captured fleeing the scene following the stabbing.

Anyone who recognises these males or who has information that could assist the investigation is asked to contact officers via 101 quoting reference 4577/19May.

Alternatively, you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online via https://crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information.

Convicted Rapist Who Attacked Lone Woman Caught By Phone App

A convicted rapist, who sexually assaulted his latest terrified victim and frogmarched her to a cashpoint, was snared within an hour thanks to the victim's 'find device' phone app.

Yanick Makunga, 34, will be locked-up for a minimum of just over five years after being traced via the woman's phone, which he had also pinched.

He pounced on the lone woman – aged in her thirties – outside her Dulwich home in the early hours of February 14.

Makunga, of Warwick Road, Croydon was originally charged with rape, but the prosecution dropped this allegation.

He pleaded guilty to false imprisonment; robbery; intent to commit a sexual offence and possession of cannabis.

At Inner London Crown Court he was made subject to a life sentence and must serve five years and fifty-seven days before he can be considered for parole.

He sexually assaulted the woman, while claiming he was armed with a knife and demanded money. 

He marched her to a local shop where she withdrew some cash from a cash machine before he left her.

However, when the victim returned home, Makunga was there. 

She ran off and went to a relative’s house and police were called.

During the incident, Makunga had stolen her mobile phone which had a “find device” app installed, tracking the movements of the phone.

Officers carried out fast-time enquiries and went to the locations the phone was transmitting, eventually identifying and arresting Makunga in George Street, Croydon. 

Upon being searched, he was found with other valuables belonging to the victim.

The woman received specialist support at a Haven.

The court heard that Makunga had a previous conviction for a rape committed in 2009.

Detective Constable Kara Eyre, of the South East Command Unit Safeguarding Team, said: “This was a terrifying attack which has left the victim traumatised. It is every woman’s worst nightmare.

“Even after her cries to stop, he did not hesitate to frogmarch the woman to a cashpoint and rob her, and then return to her home to continue to terrorise her.

“The attending officers had the foresight and instinct to quickly establish that the victim’s phone, which Makunga had stolen, could be traced. 

It ended up leading them right to their suspect, and detaining him so he couldn’t pose any further risk to the public.

“Makunga is a danger to women, and jail is the right place for him.”

Resident Battered Support Worker During Cigarettes Row

A care home resident with a violent history fractured the cheeks and an eye socket of a female support worker with a flurry of punches during a cigarettes and sleep monitoring row.

Jean Elizabeth Allan, 56, was living at Acorn Lodge, Ewell Road, Surbiton, which provides support for adults with learning difficulties and mental health issues.

She pleaded guilty to inflicting grievous bodily harm on Elizabeth Chapman on April 4, last year and received eight months imprisonment, suspended for twelve months.

Prosecutor Tom Nicholson told Kingston-upon-Thames Crown Court today Allen – a resident of nine months – had a disagreement with Ms Chapman, who has worked in the role for fourteen years, about wearing a sleep monitor device on her finger.

An hour later Allan approached her and asked for a cigarette and when she did not get one the defendant then started asking other residents.

Allan began shouting when she could not get a cigarette and took off the sleep monitor.

Being the only staff member present Ms Chapman picked up the phone to contact her colleagues.

“This defendant went up to her and grabbed the phone from her hand and struck her with her right hand in a slapping motion and then with a closed fist, which caused injuries,” explained Mr. Nicholson.

“Allan began pulling the victim's hair and Ms Chapman said she did not want to fight and the defendant replied: 'Now you fight me.'

“She had to go to Kingston Hospital with fractures to her cheekbones, a fracture of the eye socket, bruising to the bridge of her nose, her eye and a bloody sinus.”

When questioned by police Allan admitted punching the victim because she was talking about her on the phone.

Allan has 89 previous offences, 16 of which are for assaults against individuals.

Dead Men Don't Tell Tales: Cop Denies Nicking Deceased's Licence And Bank Card

A Metropolitan Police officer nicked a dead man’s driving licence and bank card when called to the deceased’s Maida Vale home after his sudden death, a court heard yesterday.

Oliver Levi Darby, 42, was on the uniformed response team in the northern part of Westminster Borough and was responsible for securing the deceased man’s property.

Blackfriars Crown Court heard the items were found when fellow officers searched his room in the Gilmour Section House, Kennington Lane, Lambeth on January 11, last year.

Also found were three further bank cards belonging to two people who formerly resided at a Wimbledon rented home once occupied by Darby.

Darby, of Sand Cottage, Docking Road, Burnham Market, King’s Lynn, Norfolk has pleaded not guilty to dishonestly handling those three cards.

He has also pleaded not guilty to stealing the driving licence and bank card belonging to the estate of Gary Steel, of Randolph Avenue, Maida Vale on January 6, 2017.

Prosecutor Mr. Oliver Doherty told the jury: “The reason why Mr. Darby wanted these cards isn’t entirely clear, but at the time he was having some financial difficulties.

“He had cause to tell other people he had financial difficulties, but it is not the prosecution case he ever used the cards even though one was used to pay a Cyprus-based internet dating site.”

During the search a Halifax Visa and MasterCard, still attached to the original letters, were found in a shoe box and a Barclays Visa card was found on a shelf.

The late Mr. Steel’s Barclaycard and licence was found in a red bag by Darby’s bed.

He was one of two officer’s who attended the deceased man’s home where property was officially listed. “There was no recording of the licence or bank card later found,” explained Mr. Doherty.

“Darby does not dispute the items were in his room, but does deny dishonest possession.”

Trial continues………….

Neighbour Heard Woman Being Stabbed To Death By Boyfriend

Ian Levy: Denies Murder

A mother-of-three could be heard by a neighbour screaming for her life minutes before her boyfriend stabbed her to death, a court heard yesterday. 

Ex-pawnbroker Ian Levy, 55, of

Lime Court, Great North Way, Hendon, repeatedly plunged a large kitchen knife into 50 year-old Elize Stevens, the Old Bailey was told.

He has pleaded not guilty to murdering Ms Stevens, a welfare officer with the Jewish S&P Sephardi community, at his home on March 2, claiming diminished responsibility . 

Sadly, divorcee Ms Stevens was last seen alive by her family at a Golders Green restaurant the night before, skipping the meal so she would not be late for Levy.

Just after 10am the next morning downstairs neighbour, musician Michael Hardy, heard her screams for help, explained prosecutor Jane Bickerstaff QC.

“He ignored it for ten seconds then heard running and thudding as if people were running into things and heard a woman shout: ‘Help, help’ in a loud piercing scream.

“He could hear the woman’s voice saying: ‘Ian, Ian stop it. Leave me alone or you are going to kill me.’

“This was followed by loud screams and: ‘You’re strangling me. Murder! Ian, please stop, you’re going to kill me.

‘Ian please stop. You’re stabbing me. You’re going to kill me.’”

Levy refused to answer his front door to Mr. Hardy, who called 999 and returned with two neighbours.

“There was, by this time, complete silence,” added the QC.

Stabbed: Elize Stevens

Only when police threatened to smash Levy’s front door open with a battering-ram ‘enforcer’ did the defendant open up.

“He came out into the communal hallway completely naked and covered in blood.

“The police could see a large amount of blood on the floor and spattered up the walls and the legs of a prone female.

“She was naked, on her back and covered in multiple stab wounds.

“Lying on the floor next to her was a large kitchen knife, a hammer and a pair of mens’ tracksuit bottoms covered in blood.

“Her body was then taken away after attempts to save her life that were futile”

There was evidence of the attack occurring in the bathroom. “There was lots of blood dripped onto the floor of the bathroom and onto the edge of the bath and sink.”

The court heard the pair began a relationship after Levy attended a ‘Shiva’ hosted by Ms Stevens, following the death of her father in January, last year.

“They met that week and seemed to have formed or rekindled a relationship,” said Ms Bickerstaff.

Ms Stevens had moved to the heart of north London’s Jewish community in 2011 after an unhappy, violent marriage in Israel and had also become a grandmother.

Levy, who had tried online dating and has a background in the jewellery business, attended Slimming World appointments with her and was introduced to her family in October, last year.

She tried to help him find work by assisting with his CV after he quit a Burnt Oak pawnbrokers in January, this year and helped him overcome issues of depression and anxiety, the court heard.

On February 18, this year Levy called the police, expressing “suicidal intentions” and was admitted to a psychiatric hospital.

Ms Stevens sent him a supportive text two days later, which read: ‘Ian. I’m so happy to hear your voice, even though you are not feeling well.

‘You are extremely good enough to have a relationship, a job and be happier than you are now…..The future will be happier and I want to be part of your future.’

On February 28 - two days before the killing - Levy was discharged into the care of the Barnet Crisis Resolution and Home Treatment Team after telling a psychiatrist his anxiety had improved.

“Ms Stevens was supportive of his discharge,” said the prosecutor. “She was affectionate, patient and understanding of his condition.”

Trial continues…………… 

Ex-Boyfriend Sent 'Boob And Bum' Pics To Former Partner's Dad

A man sent half-naked sexually-explicit boob and bum pictures of his barmaid ex-girlfriend to her father during a post-break up dispute.

Betting shop worker Kevin Bolenge, 30, of Ludovick Walk, Barnes, sent close-up underwear snaps of her breasts and rear, which he had taken during their relationship.  

He pleaded guilty to disclosing private sexual images of the woman, with intent to cause distress, between October 8 and 10, 2017.

Bolenge denied a second charge of racially-aggravated threatening, abusive words and behaviour and this was dropped by the prosecution.

“In an attempt to get the lady to contact you, you sent these images to her father,” Kingston-upon-Thames Crown Court Judge Martin Barklem told him.

“You knew you had no right to do this and the fact you sent it to her father was a cowardly act of humiliating the lady, who was only wearing her underwear.”

Bolenge was sentenced to 11 weeks imprisonment, suspended for 12 months and ordered to complete up to 30 days rehab and up to 40 days of a domestic violence programme.

He must also pay £800 costs, a £115 victim surcharge and obey a five-year restraining order, prohibiting contact with both his former girlfriend and her father.

Prosecutor Alexander Williams told the court Bolenge had a two-year relationship with the woman, who blocked his abusive calls after they split-up.

“He asked her to send sexual pictures of her breasts to him, which she found upsetting and she received many calls from unknown numbers that she suspected was the defendant.

“Her father received photos that he recognised as his daughter , sexual pictures of her breasts and bottom that she had allowed to be taken during the relationship.”

The racially aggravated charge that was dropped was in relation to alleged texts by Bolenge, which read: ‘Keep taking selfies with your Paki friend,’ and: ‘White slag.’ 

The judge told Bolenge, who has a previous conviction for harassment: “There was a limited degree of remorse shown by you until pressed.”

He had initially fought the case, claiming the images were of another woman and not the man’s daughter.