Thugs jailed for life after jumping out of car and stomping on victim’s head
Even after he was knocked to the ground, Khan and Rahman continued their attack, kicking him over and over and stamping on his head as he lay defenceless on the pavement.
Two thugs have been jailed for life after jumping out of a car and repeatedly stomping on a man’s head in a savage attack in Birmingham. Craig Dean, known to his friends as Yankee, was standing outside an address on Springfield Road, Moseley, on July 7 when a row that had started over text messages erupted into violence.
At around 4.50pm, a car pulled up outside the address and 23-year-old Hamza Khan and 25-year-old Mohammed Rahman got out and confronted Craig. Within moments, the pair launched a sustained assault. Even after he was knocked to the ground, Khan and Rahman continued their attack, kicking him over and over and stamping on his head as he lay defenceless on the pavement. They then climbed back into the vehicle and drove off, leaving Craig critically injured in the street.
An investigation was immediately launched, with officers working around the clock to track down those responsible. Just two days later, on July 9, Craig’s life support was turned off and he tragically died from his injuries.
Detectives painstakingly pieced together CCTV footage and other evidence, identifying the car used in the attack and linking it to Khan and Rahman. The Vauxhall Corsa was later found a short distance away.
Forensic tests were carried out on two drink cans recovered from inside the vehicle, revealing DNA belonging to both men and confirming officers’ suspicions.
Khan, of Anderton Park Road, Birmingham, was arrested on July 16 after being located inside a holiday rental property in Worcestershire. Rahman, of Mapleton Grove, Birmingham, had attempted to flee the country but was detained at Heathrow Airport when he returned to the UK on July 25.
Both men were charged with murder. Last month, following a trial at Birmingham Crown Court, they were found guilty.
Khan and Rahman were on Tuesday each sentenced to life imprisonment. Khan must serve a minimum of 17 years, while Rahman must serve at least 17 years and six months before being considered for parole.
Craig’s daughters, who have been supported throughout the investigation and court process by specially trained officers, previously thanked the community for the support shown to their family.
Craig's daughters said: “We as Craig’s daughters sincerely appreciate all of the kind words said about our Dad and everyone that has taken interest in this case, demanding justice on his and our family's behalf.
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“The Facebook group which was created by your community in memoriam of Craig has 600 members, which is a testament to how loved he was and his impact on everyone that knew him.
“He was an amazing father, and we want to thank everyone that took the time to get to know him or has shown support to our family during this horrific time. We will never forget the kindness you have shown us.”
Detective Inspector Dan Jarratt, who led the investigation, said: “We welcome the lengthy prison sentences given to Khan and Rahman for the brutal and senseless murder of Craig Dean, known as ‘Yankee’ to his friends.
“Our thoughts remain firmly with Craig’s family and loved ones, who have shown strength and dignity throughout this difficult process.
“I would like to thank the dedicated investigators and partner agencies who worked tirelessly to secure these convictions.
“There is absolutely no place in our society for this level of violence and West Midlands Police remains resolute in our commitment to pursue those who commit serious violent offences and ensure they are held accountable for their actions.”
