Terrence King, 60, has been sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 16 years and one day for the murder of 15-year-old Devon Simmonds-Caines. King deliberately struck the teenager with his car on Rowrah Crescent in Langley, Middleton, on July 22 last year, travelling at nearly twice the speed limit. Devon, who was riding a stolen e-bike, suffered catastrophic injuries and died at the scene.
Trial and conviction
During the trial, King claimed he only intended to "block in" the bike to stop it, denying any intent to harm Devon. An initial trial in January ended with a hung jury. After the jury was discharged, King admitted to manslaughter. Following a second trial earlier this month, he was convicted of murder. On July 23, he received a life sentence.
Judge's remarks
Sentencing, Judge Maurice Greene stated: "This was an act of unlawful private retribution. The robbery of the bike was wrong, but it did not entitle you to harm anyone. The law does not permit anger, panic or misguided loyalty to be turned into violence." He added that the incident was far from "a momentary brush with danger" and that King aimed to inflict "really serious harm."
Prosecution evidence
Prosecutor Michael Hayton KC highlighted video evidence showing King "deliberately" chasing Devon before steering into him at speed. The footage revealed no brake lights on King's Vauxhall, and the vehicle did not slow down. Devon's injuries were "unsurvivable," and death was confirmed at 12:20 pm.
Family impact
Devon's grandmother, Yvonne, described hearing a radio report about the collision while stuck in traffic: "I remember hearing this noise that sounded like a wounded animal. I realised it was coming from me." She called Devon a "bright, caring and happy boy" who dreamed of starting a clothing business. His father, Thomas, said: "He had his whole life in front of him." His mother, Sharlene, noted that his younger siblings repeatedly asked about him, and visiting his grave "made everything feel very real."
Defence mitigation
In mitigation, Mukul Chawla KC pointed to King's immediate remorse and lack of premeditation, stating he showed "clear and unequivocal" contrition at the scene and during police questioning. King has since been assaulted in prison and remains in segregation for his safety.
Police statement
Senior Investigating Officer Duncan Thorpe said: "Terrence King deliberately drove his car into Devon, causing traumatic injuries that sadly resulted in his death. Our thoughts remain with Devon's family."
