A 20-year-old convicted rapist has been jailed for 18 years for causing a 25-year-old woman to plunge to her death from a balcony by threatening her with a machete.
Jaiden Hassan-Agard, who had previous convictions for the rape of a 12-year-old girl, ABH and GBH when he was aged 15, was found guilty of the manslaughter of Tia Langdon, who died following the fall from the block of flats in Southampton after he "terrorised" his victim.
Offences and Background
He was also convicted of actual bodily harm by breaking her nose by punching her, threatening to kill her, false imprisonment and making threats with an offensive weapon during the incident in August last year.
Winchester Crown Court heard that Hassan-Agard had accused Ms Langdon and a second woman of stealing drugs from him before he threatened them with a machete.
Judge's Remarks and Sentence
The judge, Mrs Justice Tipples, told the defendant: "You terrorised her so much that she saw no option but to try to escape you by going over the balcony." She added: "It was clear that Tia was fatally injured and you did nothing to help her."
The judge imposed an extended sentence on Hassan-Agard, meaning that on completion of his time in prison, he would be subject to a period on licence for a further three years. She added: "I am satisfied you do pose a significant risk to the public of serious harm."
Additional Convictions and Family Statement
The judge said that Hassan-Agard had previously been assessed to be a victim of modern slavery having become involved in drugs from the age of 11. As well as the offences against Ms Langdon, he was sentenced for false imprisonment, threats to kill, threats with an offensive weapon and kidnap against the second victim.
The family of Ms Langdon said in a statement: "Tia was a much-loved daughter, family member and friend. She was kind, caring and brought joy to the lives of so many people who knew her. We continue to grieve her loss every day, but her memory will remain with us always."
