Three teenagers have been sentenced for the brutal murder of Gary Belfield, with their combined prison time exceeding 72 years.
Kriesha Stroud, 15, recruited her boyfriend Jordan Tams, 17, and Leandro Lopes, also 17, to attack Gary and his son, Luke. This attack happened in their home and was described as senseless.
The judge lifted reporting restrictions, allowing the names of the teenagers to be published. Stroud was recorded saying she was glad Gary died and disappointed Luke survived.
Stroud, Tams, and Lopes are now detained at His Majesty’s pleasure, which is like a life sentence for young offenders. Tams and Lopes must serve at least 26 years, while Stroud has to serve 20 years.
The judge called the attack shocking due to its brutality and the fact that it was carried out by minors. Luke, Gary’s son, expressed his feelings about the attack, calling the killers vile.
On April 27, a member of the public reported a stabbing after Luke staggered towards a garage asking for help. He had multiple stab wounds and was worried about his dad, who was still inside.
When police arrived, they found Gary unresponsive on the sofa, covered in blood. He had suffered multiple stab wounds and died at the scene despite efforts to save him.
The judge noted that Lopes used a screwdriver, while Tams used a knife during the attack. Tams had previously expressed a desire to kill someone.
Stroud had no prior convictions, while Lopes had a caution for assault. Tams had a previous conviction for carrying a knife.
Defense lawyers argued that the teenagers had difficult backgrounds. They claimed Stroud was a victim of abuse and had PTSD. They also highlighted the young age of the offenders.
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