A violent killing on the Isle of Sheppey has shocked Kent, as three teenagers have been charged with the murder of 49-year-old Alexander Cashford, a man once described by police as a “one-man crimewave.”
Cashford, an electrician from Rainham, was attacked in Leysdown-on-Sea on Sunday evening. Witnesses claimed he was struck on the head with stones and rocks during an altercation involving a small group of people. Despite desperate attempts by bystanders to administer CPR and stem the bleeding, he died from his injuries.
A Troubled Criminal Past
Cashford’s name was already well known to police. Earlier this year, in March, he admitted stalking a young woman—following her home from work and posting a chocolate bar and a letter through her door at 1 a.m. For that offence, he was placed under a one-month curfew and fitted with an ankle monitor, scheduled to remain until September 16.
In 2015, Cashford was jailed for over three years after pleading guilty to nearly 200 offences involving vehicle theft, money laundering, and making off without payment. The crimes included stealing vehicle parts worth more than £63,000.
Detective Constable Sarbjeet Khattoare once branded him a “one-man crimewave” who exploited an “illegal gap in the market” to make quick profits.
Fatal Altercation on the Seafront
The fatal incident unfolded around 7 p.m. on Warden Bay Road. Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene on the beach, with people rushing to help Cashford as he lay injured.
Anthony West, who works at Jimmy G’s Amusements nearby, recalled the moment police descended on the area:
“I was working in the ice cream shop across the road when I heard a commotion. Four cop cars arrived, and one boy was already in handcuffs inside a police car.”
Shortly after the attack, two boys aged 14 and 15 and a 16-year-old girl, all from London, were arrested at the scene. They have since been charged with murder by joint venture and remain in custody pending their appearance at Medway Magistrates’ Court.
A 12-year-old girl was also arrested in Basildon on August 12 in connection with the killing and remains in custody.
Ongoing Investigation
Kent Police have urged any witnesses who have not yet spoken to them to come forward as the murder investigation continues.
The case has stirred intense discussion in the community, not only because of the brutal nature of the attack but also due to the victim’s notorious criminal history—raising questions about the events leading up to the deadly confrontation.
