Police Issue New Chelmsford Murder Appeal

June 22, 2016, 1:33 pm

The detective leading the investigation into the murder of a young father from Chelmsford says despite the release of two men from bail without charge it is a ‘matter of time before the investigation establishes evidence to prosecute those responsible.

Ladimeji ‘Ladi Benson, 27, was stabbed during an altercation involving a number of people in Baddow Road, at the junction of Longfields Road, at about 6.45pm on November 10, 2015. He was with a group of men who flagged down an ambulance in Broomfield Road about ten minutes later and he was taken to Broomfield Hospital where he died from his injuries.

Following a comprehensive police investigation, two 20-year-old men from Chelmsford who were arrested on suspicion of murder have been released from bail without charge and currently face no further action due to insufficient evidence.

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Senior investigating officer Detective Inspector Danny Stoten said: “My team have carried out a huge amount of work into the investigation surrounding Ladis death.

“We have followed 530 separate lines of enquiry, taken 254 witness statements, spoken to 242 people during house to house enquiries and reviewed 144 CCTV recordings.

“A total of 156 police officers and staff have been involved in the investigation and have committed 1,691 additional hours.

“We have received significant assistance from the people of Chelmsford, for which I am extremely grateful.

“I believe there is a strong likelihood that Ladi Bensons death is connected to the drugs and criminal fraternity.
“At least five people know exactly what happened to Ladi on November 10, 2015.

“They are people who either witnessed the murder or they are people involved directly in the attack who know what happened to the murder weapon.

“We know who those people are and they include some who call themselves Ladis friends.

“My experience of these people is that over time relationships change and loyalties break down. When they do, my team will be there and I believe it is a matter of time before someone examines their conscience and comes forward. For the sake of Ladis children and for the safety of the wider community in Chelmsford, those people need to do that now and talk to Crimestoppers or talk to me.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact the investigation team on 101, email scdappeals@essex.pnn.police.uk, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or online at http://www.crimestoppers-uk.org/.