A police officer has told jurors how the defendant in the Daniel Anjorin murder trial slashed at him with a "large sword". Insp Moloy Campbell told the Old Bailey that he saw blood when he looked down at his hand after being attacked in Hainault, north-east London, in April last year. Marcus Arduini Monzo, 37, denies murdering 14-year-old Daniel - who was on his way to school - and attempting to kill four others during a 20-minute series of attacks. Insp Moloy said he was "disappointed" to be injured as this hampered his pursuit of Mr Monzo, adding: "It was frightening. I remember my priority to try to carry on." Warning: this story contains details some may find distressing The Old Bailey has heard that before the attacks he allegedly carried out, Mr Monzo killed, skinned and deboned his pet cat Wizard. Jurors were told that during the rampage Mr Monzo fatally struck Daniel on the head with a sword, and attacked a pedestrian, two police officers and a couple in their own home. Afterwards, he likened events to the Hollywood movie The Hunger Games and claimed to have an alternative personality of a "professional assassin", the Old Bailey has been told. Insp Campbell told told the court that before arriving at the scene, he heard on the radio that one of his colleagues had been stabbed. A member of the public waved him down and pointed towards a car park and garage area. Insp Campbell told jurors: "Our purpose was to arrest and protect the other officers. I decided to confront the defendant." He sprayed him first but the defendant "blocked" the move and "came for" the officer, jurors heard. Insp Campbell went on: "I dropped my spray and drew my baton. I struck him or attempted to strike him. I believe I connected with him at least twice. "Mr Monzo was slashing at me with a large sword. He made contact with my hand and certainly with my body-worn camera." Asked how he felt, the officer told jurors: "I was disappointed to put it bluntly because it meant I could not carry on what I was trying to do." Insp Campbell explained that he was forced to withdraw. Previously, the court has heard how Mr Monzo launched a series of attacks by driving his grey Ford Transit van into Donato Iwule, who was "catapulted" into a nearby garden before the vehicle smashed into a concrete pillar and fence. He went on to hit Mr Iwule in the neck with his sword before running away, it is alleged. He then struck Daniel, who was wearing headphones, jurors have heard. PC Yasmin Mechem-Whitfield pursued the defendant through a series of alleyways, the court has heard. Mr Monzo struck her three times with the sword that had a 60cm blade using "extreme force", the prosecutor said. It is alleged the defendant entered a property and attacked a couple who were sleeping in an upstairs bedroom with their young daughter nearby. Insp Campbell was attacked shortly before the defendant was arrested, the court has heard. Mr Monzo denies Daniel's murder and the attempted murders of Mr Iwule, Sindy Arias, Henry De Los Rios Polania and PC Mechem-Whitfield, as well as wounding Insp Campbell with intent. The defendant also denies aggravated burglary and possession of a bladed article relating to a kitchen knife. He previously admitted two counts of having an offensive weapon, namely two swords. The trial continues. Listen to the best of BBC Radio London onSoundsand follow BBC London onFacebook,XandInstagram. Send your story ideas tohello.bbclondon@bbc.co.uk
Inspector saw blood after being slashed with sword
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Police Officer Testifies About Sword Attack During Daniel Anjorin Murder Trial"
Bbc News
6.1
TruthLens AI Summary
In a harrowing account presented during the Daniel Anjorin murder trial, Inspector Moloy Campbell recounted his terrifying encounter with the defendant, Marcus Arduini Monzo, who allegedly attacked him with a large sword. This incident occurred amidst a violent spree in Hainault, northeast London, where Monzo is accused of murdering 14-year-old Daniel Anjorin and attempting to kill four others over a chaotic 20-minute period. Inspector Campbell described the moment he was slashed, noting that he saw blood on his hand, which hindered his ability to pursue Monzo effectively. He expressed disappointment at being injured, as it prevented him from carrying out his primary duty of arresting the suspect. The officer's testimony revealed the fear and urgency of the situation, as he attempted to confront Monzo after hearing reports of a stabbing. He resorted to using his baton in an effort to defend himself against the defendant's aggressive attacks with the sword, highlighting the dangerous nature of the confrontation.
The trial has also uncovered disturbing details about Monzo's actions leading up to the attacks, including the reported killing and mutilation of his pet cat prior to the spree. Prosecutors allege that Monzo's rampage began when he drove his van into a pedestrian, Donato Iwule, before attacking him with the sword. The violence continued as Monzo struck Daniel Anjorin, who was listening to music at the time, and subsequently assaulted two police officers and a couple inside their home. Inspector Campbell, alongside other officers, was determined to apprehend Monzo despite the risks involved. The prosecution has characterized Monzo's actions as extreme and premeditated, while he has denied the charges of murder and attempted murder, claiming to have an alternate personality of a 'professional assassin.' The trial is ongoing, with further testimony expected as the court examines the full scope of the defendant's violent behavior and the impact on the victims and first responders involved.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The news article presents a disturbing incident involving a police officer and the defendant in a murder trial. It sheds light on the violent nature of the attack and provides insight into the circumstances surrounding the crime. The portrayal of events is graphic and aims to evoke a strong emotional reaction from the audience.
Intent Behind Publication
This article seems to be designed to highlight the severity of violent crimes and the dangers faced by law enforcement officers. By detailing the violent actions of Marcus Arduini Monzo, the narrative may aim to instill a sense of urgency and concern within the community regarding public safety.
Public Sentiment
The coverage likely seeks to foster a negative perception of the defendant, painting him as a dangerous individual. This portrayal can lead to heightened fears among the public, emphasizing the need for police presence and action against such individuals.
Underlying Issues
While the article focuses on a singular violent event, it may also divert attention from broader systemic issues such as mental health support, societal violence, or the effectiveness of law enforcement. Highlighting individual cases can sometimes obscure the underlying factors contributing to such behavior.
Manipulative Aspects
There are elements of manipulation present, particularly in the vivid descriptions of violence and the emotional testimonies from police officers. This choice of language may serve to sensationalize the event, steering public opinion without a thorough analysis of the context or the defendant's background.
Truthfulness of the Article
The report appears to be grounded in factual accounts from the trial, as it cites specific statements from police officers and court proceedings. However, the framing of the narrative could skew perceptions, making it essential for readers to seek additional sources for a comprehensive understanding.
Societal Implications
This article could contribute to a demand for stricter laws regarding violent crimes, influencing political agendas. Furthermore, it may affect public perception of safety in urban areas, potentially leading to increased tensions between communities and law enforcement.
Target Audience
The article seems to cater to individuals who are concerned about crime and public safety, likely resonating with those who advocate for law enforcement and strict legal repercussions for violent offenders.
Economic and Market Impact
While the news may not directly impact stock markets, it could influence sectors related to security services, law enforcement technology, and overall public safety measures. Companies in these fields may see increased interest as communities prioritize safety.
Geopolitical Context
In terms of global power dynamics, this article does not have a significant impact, but it aligns with broader discussions on crime, mental health, and systemic violence prevalent in many urban centers worldwide.
AI Usage in Article Composition
There is no clear indication that artificial intelligence was used in the writing of this article; however, the structured format and choice of language could suggest some automated assistance. If AI were involved, it might have influenced the narrative style to ensure clarity and engagement.
Overall, the article conveys a highly charged account of a violent crime and its aftermath, designed to provoke a strong emotional response from readers while possibly obscuring broader societal issues.