202400718 B1 - [2025] EWCA Crim 959

This appeal is brought by Jake Debonsu, the appellant, against his conviction on two counts of murder on 26th January 2024 following a trial before Garnham J at Inner London Crown Court. The appeal proceeds with leave granted by the Full Court on a single ground of appeal, which challenges as inadequate the judge’s directions to the jury in relation to certain recordings of telephone calls made by the appellant whilst held in custody on remand. The appellant made some admissions against his own interest in those telephone calls.

The appellant had just turned 18 at the date of sentence. He was sentenced on each count to be detained during His Majesty’s Pleasure with a minimum term of 17 years less 448 days spent on remand, the sentences on each count to be served concurrently. A victim surcharge order was imposed. There is no appeal against sentence.

We heard the appeal on 15 July 2025 and announced at the end of the hearing that the appeal would be dismissed with reasons to follow in writing. These are our reasons.