Leicestershire, April 8, 2025 (Big Ben Times)
In a case that has deeply shaken the community, two teenagers have been found guilty of the manslaughter of Bhim Kohli, an 80-year-old grandfather who was attacked while walking his dog in a Leicestershire park.
Brutal Assault in Franklin Park Leaves Family Devastated
Bhim Kohli was attacked on the evening of 1 September 2023, just a few metres from his home in Braunstone Town, Leicestershire. He was racially abused, kicked, punched, and humiliated in an unprovoked and gratuitous assault by a 15-year-old boy and a 13-year-old girl.
According to police and prosecution reports presented at Leicester Crown Court, the boy was masked in a balaclava during the attack and used what was described as “pure violence” against Mr. Kohli, who was left defenceless on the ground. The girl filmed the assault and could be heard laughing in the footage shown to jurors.
Shocking Details Revealed During Trial
During the six-week trial, jurors heard that Mr. Kohli suffered a broken neck and multiple rib fractures, consistent with heavy force. Despite being rushed to hospital, he died the following day.
The attack was allegedly triggered by the false claim that Mr. Kohli had threatened the girl with a knife — a claim that was never substantiated. No weapon was recovered, and those who knew Mr. Kohli said it was out of character for him to carry one.
As part of the disturbing revelations during the trial:
The 15-year-old boy struck Mr. Kohli with his own slider shoe while he was on his knees.
He later confessed to friends, saying he “could not stop kicking” and that he had either killed the man or put him in intensive care.
He attempted to flee but was caught hiding in a bush.
In a remorseful letter, the boy expressed regret, writing: “I regret it so much. I just want my freedom or even to go back and not do it.”
However, his claims of acting in defense of the girl were not supported by his actions or evidence, prosecutors said.
Verdict and Legal Proceedings
On Tuesday, a jury at Leicester Crown Court returned unanimous guilty verdicts for both defendants on the charge of manslaughter. The boy was cleared of murder but found guilty of the lesser charge.
The boy has been remanded into custody, while the girl, now 13, has been granted bail. Sentencing for both is scheduled for 20 May.
Victim’s Family Speaks Out
Mr. Kohli’s daughter, Susan, delivered a heartbreaking statement outside court, expressing the family’s anger and sorrow:
“He was brutally and cruelly taken away from us. They humiliated him, assaulted him, filmed it, and laughed at him. Dad did not deserve this.”
She described her father as a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, and a respected member of the community. The family said they were particularly disturbed by the racially charged nature of the attack, adding that her mother is haunted every time she opens the front door.
Community and Police Response
Detective Chief Inspector Mark Sinski of Leicestershire Police condemned the violence, stating:
“This should never have happened. Mr. Kohli was the centre of his family — a very beloved husband and grandfather. The racially motivated aspect of this attack is extremely distasteful and heartbreaking.”
He acknowledged the profound impact the incident has had on the local community, which has long prided itself on harmony and multicultural integration.
Background and Broader Implications
The case has reignited concerns about youth violence, racism, and the use of social media in amplifying violent behavior. Legal experts and community leaders have called for more robust educational programs and preventative measures to curb youth delinquency and racial intolerance.
The girl’s prior action of photographing Mr. Kohli in the park a week earlier raised questions about premeditation, though this was not pursued as a separate charge.
FAQs: Bhim Kohli Manslaughter Case
Q1: Who was Bhim Kohli?
A1: Bhim Kohli was an 80-year-old grandfather and retired businessman living in Braunstone Town, Leicestershire. He was known as a devoted family man and a respected member of the community.
Q2: What led to the attack on Mr. Kohli?
A2: The attack was allegedly triggered by false accusations that Mr. Kohli had threatened the girl. However, there was no evidence to support this claim, and the attack was ultimately deemed unprovoked and racially motivated.
Q3: What charges were brought against the teens?
A3: The 15-year-old boy was charged with murder and manslaughter. He was acquitted of murder but found guilty of manslaughter. The 13-year-old girl was also found guilty of manslaughter for encouraging the attack and filming it.
Q4: Were the teens named in court?
A4: No, both defendants cannot be named due to their ages under UK law.
Q5: What was the community reaction?
A5: The local community expressed shock, sadness, and outrage. The racially motivated nature of the attack has drawn widespread condemnation.
Q6: When is the sentencing scheduled?
A6: Sentencing for both teenagers has been scheduled for 20 May.
This incident has left a lasting scar on the community and sparked a national conversation on youth violence and racial hatred. As the legal process continues, Bhim Kohli’s family continues to grieve the loss of a man remembered for his kindness, strength, and love for his family.
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