Kevin Kelenda loses murder appeal, 17-year minimum term stands

Kevin Kelenda, now 19, will serve at least 17 years in prison after appeal judges dismissed his challenge to his murder conviction. Kelenda was found guilty in March of stabbing Tyrone Pinnock, 36, on Kensal Road in Brent on 19 October 2023. Pinnock died after running about 90 metres from the scene.

Kelenda had argued that his trial was unfair because he was required to attend via live video link from HMP Belmarsh. His lawyers claimed the arrangement prevented him from participating effectively in the proceedings. The appeal was heard after prison staff raised concerns about his violent behaviour.

Prison warned of extreme risk to staff

HMP Belmarsh’s Head of Security and Intelligence told the trial judge that Kelenda posed a severe risk to staff. A risk assessment noted a history of assaults and threats against prison officers. The prison said Kelenda required an escort of seven staff in protective equipment whenever he left his cell.

The trial judge ordered the video link after considering the security concerns. Appeal judges later ruled that the judge had faced a “pressing security situation” and had made a careful decision. They concluded that the video link was the safest practical option, avoiding the potential prejudice of Kelenda appearing in court surrounded by officers in full protective gear.

CCTV showed Kelenda following victim

The court heard that Kelenda, then 16, had travelled from Harrow to Brent on the day of the attack. CCTV footage showed him wearing a surgical mask and following Pinnock before the stabbing. The single wound penetrated Pinnock’s heart, causing his death.

Kelenda was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 17 years. The appeal judges upheld both the conviction and the sentence, stating that the trial had been fair despite the use of the video link.

What happens next

Kelenda remains in custody at HMP Belmarsh. The 17-year minimum term means he will not be eligible for parole until at least 2040. No further legal challenges to the conviction have been announced.