Trial begins in David Morley murder case


Birdcage barman killed during spree of 'random violence for pleasure'

The gang accused of Chiswick barman David Morley during a violent spree in central London, have appeared in court almost a year to the day after the attack took place.

Barry Lee, 20, Darren Case, 18, Reece Sargeant, 21, appeared at the Old Bailey, along with two 17-year-old boys and a girl who cannot be named for legal reasons.

During a spate of attacks, which took place in the early hours of Saturday 30th October, Morley along with six other people were subjected to violent random attacks.  He was repeatedly beaten, punched and kicked, as well as stamped on by his attackers.  The court heard how a 14 year old girl "kicked his head like a football" after he had fallen unconscious.  According to the post mortem, Morley suffered more than 40 separate injuries, including bruises to his hands, believed to be a result of him fending off the attack.

The prosecution told the court that they believe the attacks were undertaken purely for pleasure stating “Random, indiscriminate violence for what can only have been pleasure. The desire to rob was always secondary to the desire to inflict harm."

The court was also shown CCTV images of a group of young people beating victims, which included a homeless man and a city worker who had missed his train.

Members of the gang are charged with murder, attempted grievous bodily harm, robbery and violent disorder.

The case is expected to continue for 6-8 weeks.


October 21, 2005