Timbre of a TimeFree Mind

[Peter Moore, London]

Three teens charged with the murder of a gay London man appeared in court Monday. Four other suspects remain under police investigation.

The three, a 19 year old and two 16 year olds, are charged in the killing of David Morley on October 30 in a London park. They are also charged with attempted grievous bodily harm on two other people, two counts of violent disorder and conspiracy to commit robbery.

All of the victims were gay.

David Morley, 37, suffered serious head injuries in the attack. He died in hospital several hours later. (story)

On Friday night hundreds of people held a candlelight vigil for Morley.

During their court appearance the three teens spoke only to give their names, ages and addresses.

All three were remanded in custody to await trial.

Morley had been one of the survivors of a 1999 terrorist attack on the Admiral Duncan gay pub in London. He escaped with minor burns. Three people were killed and 73 injured in the nail bomb attack. A skinhead and self proclaimed fascist was later arrested and convicted in the attack.

Morley's killing prompted a renewed uproar over homophobic lyrics in the music of some reggae singers.

Police last week began a criminal investigation into the music of Sizzla, and Elephant Man to see if they have violated Britain's anti-hate laws. (story) Concerts last week by Sizzla were cancelled after the British government refused to grant the Jamaican performer a visa.

Crimes against gays are up dramatically in Britain. Over the past year gay-hate crimes have risen by 23 percent. During Friday's vigil for Morley, another man was stabbed while riding on a London bus. (story)

posted by jikido  # 1:39 PM