An 18-year-old has been sentenced to nine years in jail for the manslaughter of another 18-year-old, whom he fatally stabbed during a fight in Bournemouth town centre.
Thomas Betteridge, hailing from Southsea, Hampshire, was found guilty of the manslaughter of Cameron Hamilton and possessing a bladed article following a 21-day trial at Bournemouth Crown Court.
During the trial, Betteridge claimed he had acted in self-defence, and while he was acquitted of Mr Hamilton’s murder, he was convicted of manslaughter.
Lennie Hansen, also 18, from Waterlooville, was found guilty of possessing a bladed article, pertaining to him bringing the 12.5cm knife used by Betteridge for the fatal stabbing. Hansen’s sentencing is scheduled for next month.
The fatal altercation occurred in The Square, a popular area in the Dorset seaside resort, at approximately 1:25 am on August 5, 2023. Hamilton suffered a fatal stab wound to his chest during the incident, despite the immediate response of police and paramedics.
Describing the scene, a Dorset Police spokesman stated, “Despite the efforts of officers – who were on the scene within seconds of the fatal stabbing – and paramedics who subsequently attended, Cameron was very sadly pronounced dead at the scene.
During the trial, a witness recounted Betteridge’s boastful remarks to Hansen about the attack, further emphasizing the severity of the incident.
In sentencing Betteridge, Judge William Mousley KC remarked on the unnecessary use of the knife, given the perceived threat, stating, “I have concluded the use of the knife was wholly unnecessary in the face of the threat he felt.
Remembering Cameron Hamilton, the judge highlighted his character and potential, saying, “Cameron Hamilton was a much-loved family member with a large circle of friends. He was popular and he had his whole adult life ahead of him.”
In a poignant victim impact statement, Mr Hamilton’s mother, Sarah Robinson, expressed the enduring pain of losing her son and the lasting impact on their family.
Following Betteridge’s conviction, Mr Hamilton’s family released a statement, mourning the loss of their beloved Cam and highlighting his remarkable qualities.
Detective Chief Inspector Neil Third echoed the sentiments of the tragedy, emphasizing the grave consequences of carrying knives on the streets.
