Gang Jailed Over Murder of Young Man in Daylight Shooting
James Nicholson, 36, with no fixed address, was slammed with 13 years at the Old Bailey on Friday, 23 December. He was convicted of manslaughter and involvement in dealing Class A and B drugs. Nicholson was the last of five men sentenced for the killing of 22-year-old Imani Allaway-Muir.
Life Behind Bars for Gunmen
- Demetrios Kyriacou, 35, from Islington, was handed a life sentence with a minimum of 31 years after being found guilty of murder in November.
- Nathaniel Reece, 41, also from Islington, who fired the fatal shot, pleaded guilty to murder. He was jailed for life with a minimum of 33 years and two months.
Others Get Heavy Sentences for Manslaughter and Drug Crimes
- Matthew Hardy, 36, received seven-and-a-half years after being cleared of murder but convicted of manslaughter and conspiracy to supply Class B drugs (with an extra 18 months added).
- Darren Dredge, 41, was given eight-and-a-half years for manslaughter, plus convictions linked to drug supply and possession of criminal property.
Policeman Speaks Out on ‘Cold and Callous’ Killing
“Imani was a young man who had his whole life ahead of him. But by simply being in the wrong place, at the wrong time, he was tragically killed in a horrific act of violence that took place in broad daylight just metres away from a children’s playground and a football pitch full of kids,” said Detective Chief Inspector Neil John of the Met’s Specialist Crime Command.
“Kyriacou refused police help after a robbery and instead recruited friends for a deadly revenge plan. Their joint actions led to Imani’s execution — he paid with his life for a robbery he had no part in. We were determined to bring these killers to justice and worked tirelessly gathering overwhelming evidence to convict all five defendants. These men will now serve lengthy prison terms for their cold and callous actions.”
Detective Chief Inspector John added: “There is never an excuse for violence, especially involving illegal firearms. The Met remains committed to tackling all forms of violence and removing dangerous weapons and those who carry them from the streets.”
