What happened to Alexander Cashford in Leysdown-on-Sea?

Alexander Cashford was found with multiple injuries on Leysdown-on-Sea beach and later died.

Why were teenagers charged with murder?

The teenagers are accused of deliberately planning and carrying out a fatal assault on the victim.

Was the beach attack planned?

Prosecutors allege the attack was deliberately planned by the three teenagers after the victim believed he was meeting a minor.

Home / Crime and Justice / Teens Planned Beach Attack on Man They Called 'Pedo'

Teens Planned Beach Attack on Man They Called 'Pedo'

14 Jan

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Summary

Three teenagers are accused of planning and executing a fatal beach attack.
The victim was lured to a meeting by a fake online persona.
Attackers used rocks and a bottle, with one filming the assault.

Teens Planned Beach Attack on Man They Called 'Pedo'

Three teenagers are facing murder charges in connection with the death of Alexander Cashford, 49, on a beach in Leysdown-on-Sea on August 10. The prosecution contends that the 16-year-old girl and two boys, aged 15 and 16, meticulously planned the fatal assault. Cashford had engaged in extensive online communication with a fake profile, believing he was interacting with a 16-year-old girl.

During the trial, jurors were informed that Cashford met the girl, who then led him to the beach where the attack occurred. Prosecutors stated that the boys followed the pair, with one striking Cashford with a bottle. The girl allegedly shouted accusations of him being a paedophile and filmed the incident, while the other boy is accused of throwing rocks at Cashford's body.

Evidence presented includes messages where Cashford's number was saved as 'pedo' and his claims of being 30. Post-mortem examinations revealed multiple injuries, including fractured ribs that punctured a lung. Footage of the attack was reportedly shared online with a caption identifying the victim as 'pedo'. The trial continues at Woolwich Crown Court.