Andy Munns
A jury at Wincheter Crown Court has today (14th June) found Maurice Jones guilty of murdering Tsvetomir Genov in August last year.
Maurice Jones stabbed Genov on Gainsborough Close in August 2023, which led to the 20-year-old losing his life.
He has been remanded into custody ahead of sentencing at Salisbury Crown Court.
Shortly before noon on August 22nd last year, Jones, who had recently moved to the area, confronted Tsvetomir, known as TG, in Gainsborough Close over issues relating to TG’s son and his former partner.
TG, who was walking his son in a pushchair back to his son’s mother’s house, was subjected to an unprovoked, sustained and violent attack by Jones, sustaining numerous stab wounds.
Despite the best efforts of the emergency services, TG sadly died at the scene.
Jones fled from the scene, discarding the knife and his trousers. Thanks to key witnesses and intelligence from members of the public, he was swiftly arrested and taken to custody.
After being charged with murder and possession of a bladed article, Jones pleaded not guilty to both.
During the trial, Jones claimed to have only taken a knife for his own protection and then used it out of fear, claiming to have lost control of himself.
This was dismissed by the jury.
Speaking after the verdict, Senior Investigating Officer Detective Chief Inspector Phil Walker said: “Firstly, I’d like to pay tribute to TG’s family for the dignified manner in which they have conducted themselves at court, having to hear the horrendous details of their son’s murder whilst dealing with their unimaginable loss.
“I’d also like to thank the local community for the support they gave to the investigation team. Their support following the incident and during the investigation enabled us to secure a quick arrest, as well as the subsequent conviction.
“Sadly, this is another murder involving the use of a knife.
“The defendant purposely armed himself with a knife and left the address he was in to confront the victim before launching into a violent, unprovoked attack, ignoring efforts to stop him.
“TG was simply walking his son back to his mother’s address and did not present any danger to anyone.
“This was a violent assault in a public place and the defendant has not shown any true remorse for his actions.
“I’m pleased the jury has dismissed his defence and have found him guilty of TG’s murder.
“My condolences go out to TG’s family and friends and we hope this verdict will give them some comfort at such a difficult time.”
The jury spent the last two weeks in court, hearing evidence related to the case, and unanimously decided just before lunchtime after deliberating for approximately one hour and twenty minutes.
During the case, Mr Jones admitted stabbing Genov, or TG as he was known, but denied intending to kill him.
Judge Mousley said the sentence would be “of great length” and that he would be sentenced on July 18th in Salisbury Crown Court.
Jones, originally from Bermuda, moved from the Midlands to Salisbury on August 10th after an online relationship to be with partner Sinead Hughes.
