London, UK – UK drill rapper Kay-O, whose real name is Kammar Henry-Richards, has been sentenced to life in prison with a minimum term of 37 years for his involvement in the gang-related murder of 25-year-old Kacey Boothe. The sentencing, which took place on Tuesday, January 14, at London’s Old Bailey, also saw three other men receive life sentences and one additional defendant handed a five-year sentence.
The Murder of Kacey Boothe
The tragic incident occurred on August 13, 2022, at a community center in East London during a birthday party for the child of Boothe’s friend, Khalid Samater. Prosecutors alleged that the killing was a planned revenge attack tied to a violent gang rivalry between the London Fields gang and the E9’ers gang. This conflict, marked by tit-for-tat violence, has plagued the area for years.
Judge Lynn Tayton QC described the murder as a “planned revenge attack” and noted the defendants’ significant roles in facilitating the crime.
The Defendants and Their Sentences
In addition to Kay-O, the following individuals were sentenced for their involvement:
- Ka’mani Brightly-Donaldson (25 years old): Life in prison, minimum term of 35 years
- Joao Pateco-Te (28 years old): Life in prison, minimum term of 38 years
- Jeffrey Gyimah (23 years old): Life in prison, minimum term of 36 years
A fifth defendant, Roody Thomas, received a five-year sentence after confessing to gun possession. All five were also convicted of conspiracy to commit murder, which was linked to the shooting of another victim, Abdi-Rahman Jeylaani, in August 2022.
“Laughing Stock” and the Aftermath
In a chilling twist, Kay-O released a song and music video titled “Laughing Stock” just days after the murder, which prosecutors said referenced the killing. The court also heard that Boothe’s older brother, Kyle, was another victim of the gang violence, having died in August 2020, a detail reportedly mentioned in Kay-O’s lyrics.
Judge Tayton emphasized that while none of the defendants physically carried out the shooting, they all played critical roles in organizing and enabling the crime. “There is no sensible basis upon which to differentiate between you in terms of the roles you played in the murder or the conspiracy to murder,” the judge stated.
The Tragic Cost of Gang Rivalry
This case highlights the devastating impact of gang violence in East London, leaving families mourning loved ones and communities grappling with the consequences of ongoing conflicts. The sentences aim to deliver justice for Kacey Boothe’s family while sending a strong message against organized violence.
Authorities continue to work on dismantling gang activity and preventing further tragedies like this one.
