Daryl Derek Richardson v R

Facts

On 5 April 2020, less than a month into the first Covid-19 lockdown, Muhammed Jassey was stabbed once in the chest on Whitehawk Road, Brighton, and died; the blade was at least 17cm long and severe force was used. Mr Richardson, then 25 and with 17 previous convictions for 32 offences, had been staying at a flat at Kite Place West with Bobby Smith, then 22. The day before, Mr Richardson had texted Darin Parker proposing that he be driven to St James Street to rob someone of cannabis. CCTV showed the two men leaving the flat, Mr Richardson gesturing towards Mr Jassey, a struggle between Mr Smith and Mr Jassey, and Mr Richardson patting Mr Jassey's pockets before both men ran off; Mr Jassey's blood was found on Mr Richardson's trainers and top. Interviewed with an appropriate adult present, Mr Richardson made no comment. At Lewes Crown Court before His Honour Judge Jeremy Gold KC and a jury, the prosecution put the case as a joint enterprise. Mr Richardson's defence statement admitted presence but denied stabbing or knowledge of a knife; he did not give evidence, and Mr Smith, who did, was not cross-examined on his behalf. Both were convicted of murder in November 2020, Mr Richardson receiving life with a minimum term of 25 years less time served. He applied out of time for leave to appeal against conviction and sentence, with fresh evidence.