A 45 year old man has been found guilty of murder following a nine day trial at Harrow Crown Court. Leon Douglas, of Watford Way in Hendon, was convicted on Tuesday 10 November of the killing of Khalid Marchoud, aged 40.
The incident took place at around 21.40 on Friday 19 December last year at a block of flats in Tollgate Gardens, NW6. Police received multiple calls reporting a stabbing. On arrival, officers found Mr Marchoud collapsed outside a flat on the ninth floor with a severe stab wound to his abdomen. He was taken to St Mary’s Hospital but was pronounced dead later that evening.
Witnesses told the court that Douglas arrived at the address to visit a former housemate. He shouted through the letterbox demanding entry. Once inside he became immediately aggressive, armed himself with a knife from the kitchen, and became involved in an altercation with Mr Marchoud, who was unknown to him. Douglas then followed Mr Marchoud out of the property and stabbed him.
After the attack, Douglas ran down the stairwell to the second floor, threw the knife from a window, climbed onto the roof of the entrance building, and jumped to the ground. He walked calmly towards Kilburn High Road. CCTV later showed him returning to a property, changing his clothes, and spending the evening in a local pub with friends.
Over the following days Douglas disposed of the clothes he had worn during the incident, shaved his beard, and dyed his hair red in an attempt to evade police. Detectives used CCTV, intelligence, and phone enquiries to track his movements. He was located on Tuesday 23 December at an address in Cricklewood. During his arrest he tried to escape by jumping from a ground floor rear window but was quickly detained by officers. He was charged with murder on Christmas Eve.
Detective Inspector Sarah Philippe, who led the investigation, said: “This was a senseless and brutal act of violence which resulted in the tragic death of Khalid Marchoud. Our thoughts remain with Khalid’s family and loved ones, who continue to live with the devastating consequences of Douglas’ actions. I would like to thank the witnesses who came forward and supported our investigation. Their assistance was invaluable in helping us build the case that secured this conviction. Today’s verdict reflects the strength of evidence presented to the court and demonstrates our determination to pursue those responsible for serious violence and bring them to justice.”
Douglas was arrested within four days of the attack despite efforts to change his appearance and avoid capture.
By John James
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