In a tragic case that has shaken the community, two teenagers have been sentenced for the murder of 17-year-old Harleigh Hepworth, whose life was brutally taken in March last year.
Harleigh Hepworth’s family described his death as “a moment of mindless aggression” that ended his young life in an instant. The incident occurred on March 7, two weeks after Harleigh celebrated his 17th birthday.
The court heard that Harleigh, a resident of Rugeley, was visiting Wolverhampton with a friend on the afternoon of that day. Upon arriving by train, the duo proceeded to West Park in Park Road West, where they encountered the two eventual perpetrators.
After a brief confrontation, Harleigh was fatally stabbed in the chest by a 17-year-old boy, whose identity remains confidential due to legal protections. Harleigh attempted to flee the scene but was found lying in the park bleeding. Despite efforts by his friend and a passer-by to seek emergency assistance, Harleigh succumbed to his injuries.
Jovarn Esterine, aged 18, was also involved in the attack. As Harleigh was stabbed, Esterine restrained Harleigh’s friend to prevent him from intervening. Following the stabbing, Esterine threatened the friend with a knife, demanding the passcode to his phone, which he then stole. The duo fled the park, discarding one of the stolen phones in a nearby drain.
Police swiftly apprehended the suspects within days of the incident. The 17-year-old was arrested on March 9, followed by Esterine, who was taken into custody on March 10 from his home on Sherwood Street, Wolverhampton. Both denied murder charges and remained silent during police interviews.
After a six-week trial at Wolverhampton Crown Court, the 17-year-old was convicted of murder and robbery, receiving a minimum sentence of 17 years. Jovarn Esterine was found not guilty of murder but was convicted of manslaughter and robbery, receiving a six-year sentence.
Detective Inspector Ade George of the Homicide Unit expressed the police’s sympathy for Harleigh’s family. “Throughout this case, our thoughts have always been with Harleigh’s family who have been devastated by his death,” he stated. “While the sentence cannot change the devastating impact of Harleigh’s murder, we hope that this may bring some peace and justice to all those who loved him and have to live without him.”
Harleigh’s family paid heartfelt tributes, remembering him as someone with a great sense of humor, politeness, and infectious smile. They lament the loss of his future and the life he was unable to live.
The sentencing marks a somber closure to a case that has left a lasting impact on the community and those who knew Harleigh Hepworth.