In a harrowing case, Joshua Jacques, 29, was found guilty of the murder of his girlfriend and three of her family members in a brutal knife attack in Bermondsey, South East London. The victims were his girlfriend, Samantha Drummonds, 27, her mother Tanysha Ofori-Akuffo, 45, grandmother Dolet Hill, 64, and Hill’s husband, Denton Burke, 58.
[data-ps-embed-type=slideshow] > iframe {position: absolute;top: 0;left: 0;} _psEmbed(“https:///uknip.photoshelter.com”);The attack, which occurred in April last year, was said to be fueled by Jacques’ use of drugs and alcohol. Despite Jacques’ plea of manslaughter, claiming diminished responsibility due to an alleged mental health condition, the prosecution successfully argued that the killings were a result of his cannabis use. After two hours of deliberation, an Old Bailey jury delivered unanimous guilty verdicts on all four counts of murder.
Hours before the tragedy, Drummonds had messaged a friend expressing concern about Jacques’ mental state, fearing he was nearing a manic episode. The gruesome scene, described as a “bloodbath” by police, saw Jacques in a disturbed state, uttering religious pleas for forgiveness.
In the aftermath, Jacques exhibited erratic behaviour, making unsettling statements and showing no remorse for his actions. Prosecutor Tom Little KC emphasized that Jacques’ ability to make rational judgments was not significantly impaired by any psychiatric condition but was instead influenced by his drug and alcohol consumption.
The court learned about Jacques’ troubled past, including 11 previous convictions and a history of mental health issues and substance abuse. His refusal to cut down on cannabis, despite its apparent detrimental effects on his mental health, was highlighted during the trial.
Mr. Justice Bryan has adjourned sentencing until February 9, while Jacques remains in custody. The conviction brings some closure to the victims’ family, who expressed relief at the verdicts.
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