Two men have been sentenced for the manslaughter of 34-year-old Justin Henry. Lewis Benjamin, 30, from Waddon New Road, england/croydon/”>Croydon, and Jamal Ali-Richards, 29, from Thornlaw Road, Norwood, appeared at Woolwich Crown Court on Thursday, 11 September.
Sentencing Details
Benjamin received a total sentence of 20 years, comprising 14 years for manslaughter and 6 years for perverting the course of justice. Ali-Richards was sentenced to 8 years and 6 months, with 5 years and 6 months for manslaughter and 3 years for perverting the course of justice.
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Detective’s Remarks
Detective Chief Inspector Craig Magee, who led the investigation, commented, “The deliberate actions taken by Benjamin and Ali-Richards to conceal their crime show a disturbing disregard for Justin’s life and the impact on those who loved him.”
Timeline of Events
Justin Henry was reported missing on Monday, 16 October 2023, after he failed to return home following a visit to his girlfriend. CCTV showed him alive at a McDonald’s drive-thru in Croydon on Sunday, 15 October. His car was later found parked near Benjamin’s home.
Discovery of Evidence
Police found signs of a clean-up in Benjamin’s flat, with furniture removed and evidence indicating an attempt to destroy crucial evidence. Forensic teams discovered bloodstains and a section of carpet belonging to Justin.
Further Investigation
Benjamin attempted to flee and discard his phone, which contained contact records with Justin. Both men were charged with murder, with Benjamin eventually pleading guilty to perverting the course of justice on 17 February 2025.
