A rapper from London was sentenced to life in jail for the deadly stabbing of a charity employee who refused to pay for a rap video.

British rapper Renai Belle was sentenced to life in jail Tuesday (July 9) for the brutal, premeditated killing of charity employee Josh McKay after McKay refused to fund certainly one of his rap movies, a London courtroom discovered.

The 30-year-old rapper, who goes by Topz, stabbed McKay within the neck inside a Leyton barbershop on July 6, 2024, whereas McKay’s younger son watched in horror. 

The assault spilled into the road, the place passersby tried to assist, however the 33-year-old father of two died on the scene.

The Old Bailey heard that Belle’s motive stemmed from jealousy and rage after McKay declined to bankroll a music video. Belle had beforehand threatened McKay in a rap video, which prosecutors performed throughout the trial.

“This was a savage and pre-planned attack, committed in broad daylight and with scant regard for passers-by,” mentioned Detective Inspector Chris Griffith, who led the investigation. “What took place left the local community reeling, and two young children without their father.”

Victim’s Mother Speaks Out Following Sentencing

Before the stabbing, Belle drove along with his ex-girlfriend, Tenika Parker, to select up a knife and a balaclava from one other man, Daniel Cooper. After the killing, Belle returned to Parker’s house to bathe and attempt to destroy proof. 

Despite his efforts, police discovered blood traces and the footwear he wore throughout the assault inside Parker’s automotive. He was arrested two days later after a citywide manhunt.

Parker was convicted of perverting the course of justice and possessing a knife. She was sentenced to 2 years and three months. Cooper, who provided the weapon, had already been sentenced for possessing a blade.

McKay labored with younger folks leaving foster care, serving to them transition into jobs and housing. His mom, Bash Kehinde, mentioned the sentencing introduced no consolation.

“Today’s sentencing changes nothing for me and my family,” she mentioned. “I will never see my beautiful son and his two children will now face life without their hero.”

Belle should serve at the very least 28 years earlier than he’s eligible for parole.

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