A 17-year-old boy has been slammed by police for filming and sharing a video of a man who had just died, deepening a grieving family’s trauma. The shocking footage captured 51-year-old Paul Lawrence lying dead on Gladonian Road in the early hours of 28 January 2024.
Teen Admits Filming Disturbing Footage
The teenager admitted to recording Paul’s lifeless body and sending the video to others via social media. Shockingly, voices can be heard laughing and joking in the background during what proved to be Paul’s final moments.
He pleaded guilty to sending a “grossly offensive” message under Section 127 of the Communications Act 2003, as well as possession of cannabis.
Youth Court Hands Down 12-Month Sentence
At Worthing Youth Court on 14 August, the boy was handed a 12-month Youth Referral Order. This sentence focuses on addressing offending behaviour and preventing reoffending through supervised conditions.
Detective Chief Inspector Alex Campbell said: “This sort of behaviour is inexcusable and has compounded the pain felt by Paul’s family at this most distressing of times.”
Second Teen Charged with Manslaughter
A second 17-year-old from Bognor Regis faces manslaughter charges in connection with Paul’s death. He is due in court for a pre-trial hearing on 6 October.
Both teenagers remain unnamed due to their age.
