London, UK – The grieving parents of Jimmy Mizen, a 16-year-old tragically killed in May 2008, have spoken out after learning that their son’s murderer, Jake Fahri, allegedly recorded music referencing the crime. The allegations have prompted outrage and an official investigation by the UK’s Ministry of Justice.
Jake Fahri, now 35, was convicted in 2009 for Jimmy’s murder and sentenced to a minimum of 14 years in prison. He was released on license in June 2023 but has since been returned to custody after reportedly breaching the conditions of his release.
Music Allegedly Glorifying the Crime
Fahri, who allegedly performs under the pseudonym “TEN” while concealing his identity with a ski mask, is accused of recording and releasing drill rap tracks that reference Jimmy’s death. Lyrics reportedly include disturbing details such as, “See a man’s soul fly from his eyes and his breath gone.” These songs are said to glorify violence and have sparked widespread condemnation.
Jimmy’s parents, Margaret and Barry Mizen, expressed their shock and dismay. “We’re a bit stunned. How can someone be allowed to play this kind of music?” Margaret told the BBC. “The words are absolutely horrendous.”
Barry added to Sky News, “We were upset and very concerned for the rest of our family. It’s deeply distressing to think he could profit from our son’s tragedy.”
Probation Service Response
A spokesperson for the UK Probation Service condemned Fahri’s actions, stating, “Our thoughts are with Jimmy Mizen’s family, who deserve better than to see their son’s murderer shamelessly boasting about his violent crime.” The statement confirmed that Fahri was recalled to prison following a breach of his license conditions. His release will now be reviewed by the Parole Board.
BBC and Spotify Respond
The BBC faced criticism after it was revealed that TEN’s music had been played on BBC 1Xtra’s Introducing show. A spokesperson clarified that none of the tracks featuring the alleged murder-referencing lyrics were broadcast and confirmed that TEN’s music will no longer be played on their platform.
Spotify, where some of TEN’s tracks remain available, also addressed the controversy. A spokesperson confirmed that the lyrics in question do not appear in the artist’s Spotify tracks and stated that they review all content for compliance with trust and safety policies.
A Call for Forgiveness, Peace, and Hope
Margaret Mizen, who with her husband founded the Jimmy Mizen Foundation to promote non-violence, emphasized the importance of positive messaging for young people. “We have to decide what kind of messages we want to send,” she said. “Our children need to hear messages of forgiveness, peace, and hope, not dreadful rap songs glorifying violence.”
The foundation continues its mission to inspire young people with its focus on resilience and non-violence. “Our message will stay: forgiveness, peace, and hope. That’s what we’ll continue to teach in schools,” Margaret told the BBC.
The investigation into Fahri’s actions is ongoing, with authorities vowing to take swift action against any content that glorifies violence or causes distress to victims. For Jimmy Mizen’s family, their focus remains on spreading a message of hope and ensuring that their son’s legacy serves as a beacon for change.
