Boy, 15, pleads not guilty to murdering 80-year-old man in Leicestershire
Bhim Kohli died from serious injuries he suffered while walking his dog near his home in Braunstone Town, Leicestershire.
Wednesday 18 December 2024 13:19, UK
A 15-year-old boy has pleaded not guilty to murdering an 80-year-old grandfather in Leicestershire.
Bhim Kohli died in hospital on 2 September, a day after he was seriously injured in Franklin Park, Braunstone Town, while he was walking his dog near his home.
The boy, who cannot be named because of his age, appeared at Leicester Crown Court on Wednesday and denied the charges of murder and manslaughter.
The youth, who was aged 14 at the time of Mr Kohli's death, appeared in the dock wearing a dark grey suit as he was remanded in custody until a pre-trial hearing on 24 January.
The trial is expected to take place on 17 February and may last up to six weeks. It will be heard by a High Court judge.
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A 12-year-old girl who is charged with the manslaughter of Mr Kohli appeared at the same court on Wednesday, but was not asked to enter a plea.
The girl, who also cannot be named, sat outside the dock and was granted conditional bail until the next hearing.
She is expected to go on trial in February with the other youth.
Judge Timothy Spencer KC told the children: "You both understand you are in a very serious position."
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Mr Kohli's family said in a statement after his death: "Bhim was a loving husband, dad and grandad.
"He was also a son, brother and uncle. He adored his grandkids with all his heart and loved spending time with them.
"He really was such a loving, caring person whose life was centred around his family."