Family pay tribute to 'heart of gold' Levi Kent and slam 'cowardly' Gosport killers

“Cowardly” killer Gosport brothers Tommy West and Aiden West were given life sentences on Tuesday with a minimum term of 21 years and 28 years respectively following the murder of Levi on November 24 last year. He was repeatedly knifed by Tommy West when lured to shops behind Nobes Avenue, Bridgemary, shortly after 2am before he was stabbed in his Vauxhall Corsa before attempting to escape and crashing his car into a wall. 

Levi, who had refused to defer payment on a deal, was then chased into Keyes Road before he was set upon again. He died following a fatal blow to his heart amid six stab injuries. 

Aiden West, 25, of Tudor Close, Gosport, was found guilty of the murder of Levi in August following a trial. He was found not guilty of possessing a blade. His half-brother Tommy West, 18, of Fisgard Road, previously admitted to Levi’s murder along with robbery and possession of a blade. 

Today (Wednesday) other people in the case have now been sentenced. They are the brothers’ mother Joanne West, 45, of no fixed address, who admitted two counts of assisting an offender. Sarah Flynn, 36, of James Close in Gosport, admitted assisting an offender, as did Liam Savage, 38, of Trinity Green in Gosport, who admitted two counts of assisting an offender. Mark Phillips, 56, of Gilbert Close in Gosport, admitted perverting the course of justice. 

Joanne West was handed 15 months in prison, Flynn was sentenced to 12 months in jail as was Savage. Phillips was given a six month sentence suspended for two years and told to complete 15 rehabilitation days. Peter West, 43, now of Wimpson Lane in Southampton was jailed for two years for assisting an offender. Michael Figgins, 64, of St Ann's Crescent, is due to be sentenced after he was found guilty of one charge of assisting an offender.

Following the sentences, Levi’s family released a statement which read: “Today, we stand with heavy hearts as we reflect on the sentencing of the individuals responsible for the brutal murder of our beloved Levi. The court’s decision serves as a reminder of the profound loss we have endured.

“On 24 November 2023, my son was cruelly taken from us in a cowardly act of violence that shattered our lives and our community. Levi was not just a victim, he was a son, a brother, an uncle, a grandson, a friend, and a source of joy for all who knew him. The pain of his loss has left an irreplaceable void in all of our lives, one that will never be filled.

“We remember him for his incredible ability to put a smile on everyone’s faces, his infectious laugh, his impressive dance moves, and his giant heart of pure gold.

“During this painful chapter in our lives, we would like to express our gratitude to the police, the prosecution team, especially Mr Haggan and Mr Elton, and everyone involved in bringing these individuals to justice. Their commitment and dedication ensured that the truth prevailed, and we are thankful for their efforts during this horrific time.

“Our family appreciates the love and support we have received from friends, family, and the community over these painful 11 months. While today’s sentencing is supposed to bring a sense of closure, we know that we will remain forever incomplete as a family. 

“We are broken, and the pain that we feel is immeasurable. Knife crime has devastating life long effects, it doesn’t just end one person's life, it ends the lives of all those that loved them too. 

“We will continue to honour Levi's memory by cherishing the moments we shared with him, and by advocating for a safer community for everyone. Thank you all for your support.”

Detective Chief Inspector Matt Gillooly, Senior Investigating Officer, said: “This was a complex investigation which sought to unravel the network of individuals involved in Levi’s senseless murder – ranging from the two people directly involved in the violent attack, to those who made efforts to assist the killers in evading capture, destroying evidence or seeking refuge.

“Words can’t describe the irreversible pain caused to Levi’s family and friends as a result of his death, and our thoughts remain with them. Tommy and Aiden West ambushed and violently attacked Levi, leaving him to die in the street. Their cruelty is another shocking reminder of the tragedy born out of carrying knives.

“Both individuals will now spend a lengthy period of time in prison because of this, and their associates have also been rightly brought to justice.”