Boy, 17, jailed for killing father-of-three

A teenager has been jailed for the manslaughter of a father-of-three in West Sussex.

Paul Lawrence, 51, died following an assault in Gladonian Road, Littlehampton, on 28 January 2024.

A 17-year-old boy, from Bognor Regis, was sentenced at Portsmouth Crown Court on Friday to three years and four months in a young offender's institute.

The boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, had pleaded guilty to manslaughter.

Sussex Police Det Ch Insp Alex Campbell said: "Paul's family have shown tremendous strength and courage throughout this investigation.

"While nothing can change what happened that fateful day, I hope the conclusion of this case brings them some sense of closure.

"Our thoughts remain with them."

Mr Lawrence, who has three daughters and two grandchildren, was previously described by his brother, John, as "such a character".

"Paul was there one minute, then he was gone," he told the BBC, adding that his brother's death was a "massive shock" for the family.

Another 17-year-old boy, from Littlehampton, who also cannot be named, was previously convicted in relation to the incident.

He pleaded guilty to sending a message that was grossly offensive or of an indecent, obscene or menacing character, and possession of cannabis.

Mr Lawrence's family previously organised a charity football match to raise funds for Victim Support after his death.

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