Individual Imprisoned for Aiding Murderer in Drug-Related Killing

A two-year prison sentence has been handed down to an individual who provided assistance to one of two half-brothers involved in the fatal stabbing of a drugs runner. Levi Kent, aged 22, was murdered in November 2023 in Gosport, Hampshire, by Aiden and Tommy West. According to proceedings at Portsmouth Crown Court, the attack on the victim occurred after he declined to sell cocaine to the two individuals on credit. Michael Figgins, 64, residing at St Ann’s Crescent, had previously been found guilty of aiding 18-year-old Tommy West in the disposal of clothing subsequent to the murder. In October, the brothers received life sentences for their role in the murder, and five additional individuals were sentenced for charges including assisting the pair and perverting the course of justice. Testimony presented in court indicated that Levi Kent sustained six stab wounds inflicted by Tommy West. At the onset of the assault, the victim’s vehicle collided with a wall, and he then fled on foot, pursued by his attackers. It was reported that the younger brother, from Fisgard Road, stabbed Mr Kent a second time, after which Aiden West, 24, of Tudor Close, searched the victim’s body for drugs. Prosecutors stated that subsequent to the attack, Figgins and Peter, Tommy’s father, picked up the brothers and drove them through Gosport for multiple hours before the teenager surrendered to law enforcement. After a trial, Figgins was convicted of assisting Tommy but acquitted of aiding Aiden West. Detective Chief Inspector Matt Gillooly commented: “The sentencing of Michael Figgins now brings this case to a close, with eight people convicted and sentenced for the roles they played in Levi’s murder.” He added: “Officers worked diligently to secure justice for Levi’s family, by ensuring that not only were the two people directly responsible for Levi’s death convicted, but also the network of other individuals who made efforts to assist the killers in evading capture, destroy evidence or seek refuge.”