Maurice Jones, the man found guilty of the murder of 20-year-old Tsvetomir Genov in Salisbury, has been sentenced to life in prison with a minimum term of 30 years. The sentencing took place today, following Jones’s conviction in June.
Jones, 25, of Gainsborough Close, Bemerton Heath, was found guilty of murder and possession of a bladed article after a two-week jury trial. The incident occurred on August 22 last year when Jones, who had recently moved to the area to live with Tsvetomir’s former partner, confronted Tsvetomir, known as TG, in Gainsborough Close. The confrontation stemmed from issues related to TG’s son and TG’s former partner.
TG was walking his son in a pushchair back to the child’s mother’s house when Jones launched a violent attack, inflicting numerous stab wounds. Despite the efforts of emergency services, TG tragically died at the scene.
Jones fled, discarding the knife and his trousers, but was swiftly arrested thanks to key witnesses and public intelligence. He was charged with murder and possession of a bladed article, to which he pleaded not guilty. During the trial, Jones claimed he carried the knife for protection and used it out of fear, but the jury dismissed his defence.
Senior Investigating Officer Detective Chief Inspector Phil Walker commented on the sentencing: “While today’s sentencing is the conclusion of the courts process, the indescribable grief and sense of loss for TG’s family will go on. I would once again like to pay tribute to them for the dignified way they have behaved at court while having to hear the awful details of how TG, who was a son, father, brother, and friend, lost his life.”
DCI Walker expressed gratitude to the local community for their support during the investigation, emphasizing the importance of key witness testimony in securing the conviction. He also thanked the responding officers for their dedication and professionalism.
“Knife crime kills and ruins lives, which is why it continues to be an ongoing priority for the force,” DCI Walker stated. “If Jones hadn’t purposely taken a knife with him to meet TG, then TG would still be with us. It’s that simple. There can never be a good excuse to carry a knife. We know that you are far more likely to be the victim of a knife attack if you are carrying one, with it often being your own knife used against you. As seen from this case, the consequences of doing so, both for yourself and any potential victims, can be lifelong.”
The tragic case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of knife crime and the importance of ongoing efforts to combat it.
