Rapper Convicted for Attempted Murder Through Drill Lyrics
A 26-year-old rapper, Ryan Maqsood, also known as “Rashy” on stage, has received a 27-year prison sentence following his involvement in an attempted murder case. Maqsood, in a grim turn of events, had stabbed a 16-year-old boy using Rambo-style knives and later documented the attack in his drill lyrics. This incident occurred as part of a gang assault on April 15, 2019.
Drill Lyrics as Crucial Evidence
During the subsequent police investigation, authorities scrutinized drill tracks composed and performed by Maqsood, focusing on the lyrics he had written. One of these tracks stood out, as it seemed to provide a detailed account of the stabbing, including specific references that only someone present at the time of the offense would be privy to.
Expert Testimony and Gang Context
In court, a law enforcement officer with specialized knowledge in drill music provided expert testimony to elucidate the lyrics for the jury, making clear the references within them. This expert testimony was complemented by evidence related to local gangs, providing additional context to the case.
Sentencing and Reporting Restrictions
Ryan Maqsood, hailing from Islington, was found guilty of attempted murder and possession of a bladed weapon. His conviction occurred at the Old Bailey on August 16. Subsequently, he was sentenced at the same court two days later, although reporting restrictions were in place until recently.
Detective Sergeant’s Remarks
Detective Sergeant Katy Phipps, who led the investigation, expressed the severity of Maqsood’s actions. She highlighted the brutal nature of the attack, during which the 16-year-old victim sustained 19 stab wounds, putting his life in jeopardy. Despite the victim’s reluctance to cooperate with the police, the gathered evidence left no room for doubt regarding Maqsood’s guilt.
Phipps emphasized that the drill music retrieved from Maqsood’s phone contained highly specific details that only someone present during the incident would know, reinforcing the case against him.
Details of the Attack
The victim had been pursued into Brookes Court and subjected to multiple stabbings. A bystander provided initial aid before the victim was rushed to the hospital in critical condition. Detectives initiated a comprehensive investigation, which involved examining CCTV footage showing seven assailants on bicycles, seemingly part of a gang-style attack. Two of these individuals relentlessly pursued the victim, subjecting him to 19 stab wounds.
Crucially, investigators discovered two Rambo-style knives in a backpack, and the victim’s DNA was found on one of the blades. Maqsood’s DNA was also detected on both the knife and the backpack, which had been observed on CCTV footage being worn by one of the attackers. These findings played a pivotal role in securing his conviction.
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