A teenager has been cleared of murder and plotting a revenge attack after the fatal stabbing of an 18-year-old in Feltham.
The 16-year-old, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was accused of killing Maliki Sharma in Feltham, west London, following an escalation of violence between two rival groups. A jury at the Old Bailey found him not guilty of murder, conspiracy to cause grievous bodily harm, and violent disorder.
Three days of escalating violence
A second 16-year-old was also cleared of conspiracy to cause grievous bodily harm and violent disorder. However, a third teenager, who was injured in an attack two days before the stabbing, was convicted of conspiracy to cause grievous bodily harm with intent.
Catherine Farrelly KC, prosecuting, told the court that Mr Sharma’s death was the result of a feud that intensified over three days. On January 10 this year, the third defendant and his brother were assaulted on Feltham High Street by members of the opposing group linked to Mr Sharma.
Ms Farrelly said that during this attack, the first defendant used the knife he was carrying and stabbed Maliki Sharma just near his left armpit. She said the wound “partially transected an important artery and led to the collapse, and then the death, of Maliki a short time after the incident.”
Self-defence claim
The first defendant admitted possessing a lock knife but denied seeking revenge, claiming he acted in self-defence. He and the second defendant were returning to the scene on January 12 when Mr Sharma and a friend launched a surprise knife attack, the court heard.
The third defendant will be sentenced on December 18, along with Mr Sharma’s friend, who has admitted violent disorder, wounding with intent, and possession of a blade.
Read more of our London crime coverage: the Dalston shooting compensation ruling and the Dollis Hill stabbing charge.
