A DETECTIVE has celebrated putting a convicted murderer behind bars after a “violent and ruthless attack” which killed a father-of-three.
Keith McCarthy, 42, will face a life sentence after being convicted of murder and inflicting grievous bodily harm following a seven-day trial.
29-year-old Kerrin Repman died after being knocked off his moped in Marine Parade, Dovercourt, in April 2020.
A post mortem examination revealed the chef had suffered spinal fractures, an injury to his chest wall and internal bleeding.
Marking his conviction yesterday, Detective Superintendent Scott Egerton said he is proud to have secured McCarthy’s imprisonment.
“Keith McCarthy took Kerrin’s life in a violent and ruthless attack,” he said.
“He would have felt the full impact of that collision and seen the devastation it caused, yet he made no attempt to identify himself as the driver or to check on those he injured.
“His only thought was to try and escape the justice system, but all he did was delay the inevitable.
“I know the verdict won’t bring Kerrin back, but I’m proud that we’ve been able to get justice for his family and the woman he injured.
“I hope they take some solace knowing that the person responsible will now spend time behind bars.”
Kerrin’s family paid tribute to the 29-year-old, who they affectionately nicknamed Kez.
“Kerrin was a much-loved partner, son, brother, father and uncle,” a statement reads.
“He worked as a talented chef and gave his job one hundred percent effort and when he wasn’t working, would spend time with his family and friends.
“He also made time to help others through volunteering.
“He would prepare meals for the elderly through the Salvation Army with Christmas meals during the festive periods and would also help at our local food bank.
“Kerrin had his problems and went through a lot of physical and emotional pain in his life, but it never stopped him from having a smile on his face.
“He always brought a smile to ours, too.”
McCarthy is due to be sentenced at St Albans Crown Court on November 3.
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