Two teenagers have been found guilty of the manslaughter of an 80-year-old Bhim Kohli who was attacked while walking his dog in Braunstone last year.
Mr Kohli died from injuries sustained during the assault while walking his dog in Franklin Park, Braunstone Town, on 1 September. He was taken to the hospital but passed away the next day.
Picture credit: Leicestershire Police
After a six-week trial, a 15-year-old boy was convicted of attacking the pensioner, though he was cleared of murder. A 13-year-old girl was convicted for encouraging the attack by pointing out Kohli, filming the incident, and laughing. Due to their ages, the defendants cannot be named. Sentencing is set for May.
On the evening of the attack, Kohli was walking his dog near his home when the teenagers entered the park. The boy approached Kohli, allegedly over a past dispute (which was never verified), and began shouting at him. After donning a balaclava, the boy slapped Kohli and assaulted him, while the girl filmed. They left him on the ground, and shortly after, Kohli’s grandson found him in pain. He later died from neck and spinal cord injuries caused by the attack.
An investigation led to the arrest of the teenagers. The 15-year-old boy initially fled, but was arrested and charged. The girl was later charged with manslaughter. Both defendants lied about the events, and the boy’s phone revealed messages admitting to the attack and making false claims about Kohli’s actions. The jury found their testimonies untrue.
Detective Chief Inspector Mark Sinski called the incident “tragic and heartbreaking,” as Kohli, a beloved family member, was attacked while simply walking his dog near home.
“Bhim Kohli was simply doing what he did every day, walking his dog on the park that was just yards from his own front door. But instead of being able to enjoy an evening stroll with Rocky on a warm summer’s day, he was confronted by a teenage boy, who was encouraged by a teenage girl, attacked him and left him in agony on the floor. Sadly, the resultant injuries were fatal and Mr Kohli’s death has left not only a family grieving the loss of a beloved husband, father and grandfather but the wider community too,” he said.
“The age of the defendants in the case has added to the devastating circumstances surrounding this incident and complexities in the case. They will have to deal with the enormity that their actions resulted in a man losing his life and the consequences this now brings.”
