Ilford Teens Jailed for Brutal Murder in Designer Jacket Robbery
Two teens from Ilford have been locked up for life after a savage knifepoint raid ended in tragedy. Marvin Ward, 19, and Alexis Morris, 18, were convicted of the violent manslaughter of Hussain Chaudhry during a botched robbery at his home in Lea Bridge Road, E17.
Jury Finds Ward and Morris Guilty After Shocking Attack
Following a tense seven-week trial at Wood Green Crown Court, Ward and Morris were found guilty on Friday, 17 December 2021. Morris was also convicted for carrying a machete in public. Both were guilty of maliciously wounding Hussain’s mother and brother in the frenzied attack.
- Ward and Morris sentenced to 20 years for manslaughter
- 13 years each for robbery
- 2 years for two counts of grievous bodily harm (GBH) – sentences run concurrently
- Morris gets an extra 12 months for illegal weapon possession
Anthony Nguyen, 18, of Belvedere, was found guilty of assisting an offender and sentenced to 18 months plus a 12-month supervision order upon release.
Deadly Deal for Designer Jacket Turns Bloody
On 17 March 2021, Ward and Morris arranged to meet Hussain after spotting a designer jacket he advertised online. The teens, accompanied by Nguyen and two of Hussain’s friends, entered Hussain’s home under the guise of buying the jacket.
Things quickly turned sinister when Ward and Morris pulled knives and held Hussain and his friends hostage. Morris ransacked the house, demanding more jackets, while Ward threatened the family in the living room.
When Hussain’s mother came home, Hussain rushed to protect her. A violent struggle erupted, spilling into the street where Hussain’s brothers detained Morris. During the chaos, Hussain was fatally stabbed in the neck. His mother suffered a serious thumb injury, and his brother was hurt trying to intervene.
Ward fled in a taxi with the stolen jacket, while Morris escaped by jumping out an upstairs window.
Fast-Paced Police Investigation Leads to Arrests
The Met’s Specialist Crime Command quickly sprang into action. CCTV footage and mobile phone data pinpointed Ward and Morris as prime suspects. Ward was arrested on 19 March, with Morris caught two days later in Luton, thanks in part to Nguyen’s help.
“Hussain’s death shocked the community to its core. His life was brutally cut short by two young men the same age as him. This shows the deadly consequences of carrying a knife to commit crime,” Detective Chief Inspector Mike Stubbins said.
“Hussain’s family not only bear physical scars but also face the lifelong emotional agony of his loss. I pay tribute to the family and witnesses who helped bring the killers to justice.”
Family Statement: ‘Justice Served but Pain Remains’
“We are relieved the jury found the cowardly robbers guilty of killing our beloved Hussain, and wounding our mother and brother during their violent raid on our home,” said the family.
“Though nothing eases the heartache, we thank God justice has been served. These killers falsely believed knives gave them power but were met with true courage from Hussain, his brothers and friends defending their family.”
“Our gratitude extends to everyone supporting us with prayers and goodwill, witnesses who stood up, the press who covered Hussain’s story with respect, and the Met Police and CPS for their dedication.”
“Hussain’s legacy of love, honour and bravery will live on as long as we uphold those values. Thank you from all of Hussain’s family.”
