Paul Morrison jailed for life for murdering Deka Kennedy

Jun 20 2009 The Journal

A MAN who stabbed a Good Samaritan to death was jailed for life yesterday. Deka Kennedy, 29, suffered a single stab wound to the groin, delivered by violent Paul Morrison, 26, and bled to death.

Mr Kennedy cried out for his father as his life ebbed away, telling a friend “I’m a dead man.”

He had seen Morrison punching and kicking his girlfriend Jamie Leigh Eunson in the street during a night out in South Shields, South Tyneside.

Mr Kennedy ran over to save her from further blows but his selfless act cost him his life. Morrison, of no fixed address, was jailed for life at Newcastle Crown Court yesterday with a recommendation he must serve a minimum of 17 years.

Judge John Milford, QC, said: “No blame should be attached to the deceased who without care for his own safety went to the aid of your then girlfriend who you were assaulting in the street. The deceased without hesitation set about helping her, pulling you away. You were carrying a knife which you took out, opened and stabbed him in the groin. I have read a moving statement from the father of the deceased, I am sure one must have lost a child to realise fully the effect of such a loss. All who have heard of this case can only admire the way Deka Kennedy behaved, responding without hesitation to a request for help.

“I cannot leave this case without expressing the hope some public recognition will be received posthumously by Deka Kennedy for his brave actions.

“I am satisfied there is a significant risk you will commit further offences which will cause serious harm. In my view you are a dangerous young man.”

Mr Kennedy’s father, also known as Deka, 54, said: “For far too long people who carry knives have got away with it lightly. Until the laws are tougher, people will continue to carry knives. I blame the law for my son’s death. Deka was a hero, but look what happened to him. Our lives are shattered now.”

Morrison, aka Greener, had denied murder at Newcastle Crown Court but was found guilty by a jury.