Murder conviction follows Met investigation into fatal Westminster stabbing

A man has been convicted of murder following a determined investigation by the Met.

Despite making a concerted effort to evade arrest, officers brought Leon Douglas to justice for the cold-blooded murder of Khalid Marchoud.

Using CCTV, intelligence and phone enquiries detectives painstakingly tracked Douglas’ movements after the incident. Although he made attempts to alter his appearance and evade police, he was arrested within four days.

On Tuesday, 10 November Douglas 45 (08.12.1980) of Watford Way, Hendon was found guilty of murder following a nine-day trial at Harrow Crown Court.

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."

At around 21.40hrs on Friday, 19 December, police received multiple phone calls to a block of flats in Tollgate Gardens NW6 following reports of a stabbing. On arrival 40-year-old Khalid was found collapsed outside a flat on the ninth floor with a significant stab wound to his abdomen. He was taken to St Mary’s Hospital but was sadly pronounced dead later that evening.

In court, witnesses described how Douglas arrived at the address to visit his former housemate and shouted through the letterbox, demanding entry. After being let in, he was immediately aggressive and armed himself with a knife from the kitchen. He became involved in an altercation with Khalid, who was unknown to him, before following him out of the property and stabbing him.

Afterwards, Douglas ran to the second floor via the stairwell, where he threw the knife from a window before climbing onto the roof of the entrance building and jumping to the ground. He then calmly made his way towards Kilburn High Road.

He was later traced on CCTV returning to a property where he changed his clothing and headed to a local pub where he spent the evening with friends.

Over the next couple of days Douglas disposed of the clothes he had been wearing during the incident, shaved his beard and dyed his hair red - all in an effort to evade police, who had launched a manhunt to trace him.

He was located on Tuesday, 23 December at an address in Cricklewood. During his arrest he tried to escape by jumping out of a ground floor window at the rear of the property but was met by officers who swiftly detained and arrested him.

He was taken into custody and charged with murder on Christmas Eve.