THREE teenagers have been sentenced today, following the murder of 13-year-old Olly Stephens.
Two boys, both aged 14, were sentenced to a life in prison, with a minimum term of 12 years, 105 days for one, and 11 years, 105 days for another.
A 14-year-old girl was also sentenced to three years and two months’ in prison, after pleading guilty to one count of manslaughter and one count of perverting the course of justice.
Olly was stabbed and killed on Sunday, January 3, in Bugs Bottom Fields, Caversham — roughly 200 yards from home.
The court heard how the three defendants conspired between them to lure Olly to the field, following an argument he was involved in with one of the group on social media.
When Olly arrived at the field, the two boys, one of whom was 13-years-old at the time, started a fight with Olly.
The younger boy drew a knife that he had brought with him and stabbed Olly twice before all the defendants fled the scene, leaving Olly critically injured.
The public and medical professionals attempted to save Olly’s life, but his wounds were too serious and he was declared dead at the scene.
The three teenage defendants were identified and arrested within a few hours, and charged on Wednesday, January 6.
Senior investigating officer, Detective Chief Inspector Andy Howard, of the Thames Valley Police Major Crime Unit, paid tribute to Olly’s parents.
“Today’s sentences mark the conclusion of an extremely harrowing period for all of Olly’s family and friends,” he said. “I would like to start by paying tribute to their immense bravery and dignity throughout this entire process.
“While I am pleased that justice has been done, and those responsible have been held accountable for their actions, there is no sense of victory for anyone involved in this incident, or investigation.
“A 13-year-old boy who had his entire life ahead of him, with so much unfulfilled promise and potential, has been killed in violent and needless circumstances.
“Three other young lives have also been changed forever. All of this could so easily have been avoided if those involved had not carried a knife that day.
“The circumstances of Olly’s death are truly shocking but it is vital that his death is not in vain.
“I know that Olly’s family are determined that his death is the foundation of something far more positive; in particular education and intervention for young people to try and prevent others from finding themselves in this type of destructive scenario.”
The DCI said adults have a responsibility to set the “right standards and values for our younger generations”.
“Most importantly we have to teach them and make them realise that life is precious,” he said.
“Nothing can bring Olly back to his family now, but I hope that lessons can be learned from this distressing case to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in future.”
