Harpreet Sandhu KC was instructed to prosecute Owen Blades who pleaded guilty to murdering a 69-year old man in his own home by stabbing him repeatedly, wounding another man with intent by stabbing him, having an offensive weapon, burglary and theft.
Phil Bradley KC was instructed by McNeil & Co Solicitors to defend Blades. Phil led Anna Soubry [KCH Garden Square].
Blades is a man with a history of violent offending. He was released from the custodial element of his last sentence on 11 June 2024. On 12 June 2024, he purchased the knife he would use to commit the instant offences. He committed them on 13 June 2024 (within two days of being released from prison). He did so after consuming alcohol and cocaine.
On 15 May 2025, Blades was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 34 years and 195 days.
Murderer struck two days after his prison release – BBC News
My name’s Blades and I stab people’ bragged criminal before murdering retired carer – The Telegraph
