Overview

• The 15-year-old defendant has pleaded guilty to manslaughter and knife possession but denies intent to kill classmate Harvey Willgoose.
• Prosecutors highlighted the defendant’s purchase of a hunting knife, weapon-related internet searches and social media posts as evidence of premeditation.
• Defence counsel argued that years of bullying and severe home abuse triggered a sudden loss of control leading to the fatal stabbing.
• Forensic psychiatrists testified that the boy’s home life involved physical and emotional neglect, including food deprivation and excessive chastisement.
• After closing speeches concluded on July 31, jurors at Sheffield Crown Court are now weighing intent and mental state to choose between murder and manslaughter charges.