@janintherain, @Cocoda
In 2021, Jay, along with seven other youths, ambushed and chased fellow teen Tom Hilton in Rishton, Lancashire, attacking him with a machete, golf clubs, and an axe. Tom, who likened his attackers to 'a pack of gorillas', was left with a split skull following the assault, as well as injuries to his shoulders and legs.
Judge Parry stated: "You should all eight be thoroughly ashamed of yourselves but I am not at all convinced you are. Many of you have found these proceedings amusing throughout the trial and yesterday and today, showing disrespect to the court."
Jay also had priors for assault and drug dealing. I certainly don't think anyone should die in a stupid accident, and I do find it extra sad that he was so young. It hasn't transformed him into a saint, though: he was who he was.
The difference between this family and those of the hundreds of other young people missing right now, or found dead, isn't class. It's the incredible amount of publicity and money they have generated.