The murder of Jay Whiston

The stabbing of 17-year-old Jay Whiston was a senseless and cowardly crime.

I am pleased that Edward Redman has been found guilty of murdering Jay at a house party in Colchester on the night of Saturday, September 8, 2012.  I note that Redman’s father, brother and former girlfriend have been found guilty of conspiring to pervert the course of justice following the stabbing.

Justice has now been done.  But a sense of loss and sadness remains.

By all accounts, Jay was a fine young man.  I did not have the privilege of meeting him.

I have been fortunate enough to meet Caroline Shearer, Jay’s mother, on many occasions.  I have also witnessed the work that she has led through her organisation, Only Cowards Carry, to educate young people about the dangers of knife crime.

All of us who live in Essex must continue to make it clear that there is no place for knives or weapons in our communities.

I thank Senior Investigating Officer, DI Anne Cameron, and all her team, for their exceptional work in this case.

I sincerely hope the verdict brings some comfort to Caroline, to Jay’s family and all of his friends as they seek to rebuild their lives.

Nick Alston, Police and Crime Commissioner for Essex