A man was convicted of murder at Maidstone Crown Court after stabbing his victim over a £10 phone debt in their shared Castle Road home, Chatham, on 1 November 2025. Mark Jesse, 51, fatally stabbed a man in his 40s following an argument involving a visitor, Ashley Robinson, who was later convicted of assisting an offender.
Argument Turns Fatal
The court heard the victim had a dispute with Robinson over an unpaid £10 for a phone. After the two separated, Jesse, angered by the argument, armed himself with a knife and, accompanied by another man, entered the victim’s room.
Confession At The Scene
Witnesses reported hearing Jesse and his companion leave the room saying, “We’ve done him.” Jesse reportedly stated, “I’ve stabbed him in the ribs.” The victim was found with a single fatal stab wound to the chest.
Escape And Arrest
Jesse and Robinson fled together, abandoning their car on Kingfisher Drive. Both were arrested within two days following intensive police work.
Judge To Decide Sentence
On 15 June, Jesse was found guilty of murder, and Robinson, of Meadow Bank Road, Chatham, was convicted of assisting an offender. Sentencing is scheduled for a later date.
Detectives Statement
“A man’s life was tragically and prematurely cut short over a simple argument,” said Detective Chief Inspector Martin Davies. “Jesse’s rash decision to carry a knife led to this unjustifiable killing. His flight from the scene and denial show a lack of remorse. There is no more serious crime than murder, and his likely prison sentence will reflect the deliberate taking of a life. With him behind bars, he can do no more harm to the community.”
