• April 1, 2023

Alleged murderer of Keralite in London released on bail: Jerald’s daughter demands stricter action (Sign Petition)

Alleged murderer of Keralite in London released on bail: Jerald’s daughter demands stricter action (Sign Petition)

By A Staff Reporter

LONDON March 31: The 16-year-old alleged murderer of an innocent Keralite has been released on bail and allowed to continue with his life as normal in his home even before the funeral could be held. The daughter of the Keralite has now come out asking for the government to change the law to correctly to regulate the current youth justice system principles.

Jerald Netto (62) from Southall was subjected to serious assault by unidentified persons from behind at the junction of Uxbridge Road and Boston Road in the early hours of 19th March 2023.

Jerald was walking away when he was attacked by a 16-year-old from behind who then jumped over him and ran away. Jerald was found unresponsive by the ambulance and was left in critical condition. Jerald’s family attended the hospital and were told he will not survive. Jerald sadly passed away the same day while on a life support machine.

Jerald’s daughter Jennifer Netto has now come out with a petition asking to “protect our community and rehabilitate youth offenders of serious crimes by changing the laws that promote lenient bail conditions allowing offenders to return to environments that enable poor behaviour”.

Jerald’s daughter wants appropriate action to be taken when a person has been assaulted and killed as she feels her father’s death has been belittled and justice hasn’t been received.

The perpetrator is allowed to go back home on bail, continue writing exams, continue having a sense of normality which doesn’t highlight the seriousness of the crime he chose to commit.

Jennifer feels that the current law enables his behaviour instead of teaching the young adult what he has done is wrong and taking appropriate action.

Click to Read and Sign Petition

According to the petition by Jennifer, “the perpetrator has returned to his home although my father has lost his life. Serious crimes that result in death not only impact the family but the wider community. My father had an influential impact on the lives of many”.

“My father was completely harmless and always avoided confrontation. He was attacked from behind and had no idea he would not return that night. This incident was traumatic for all those he knew as he was a helpful, skilful member of the community.

“Young offenders are not remorseful of their actions and have the tendency to reoffend as the current laws are tolerant. Justice should be served for victims and families who loose someone dear in a sudden aftermath of serious crimes that are committed by young offenders.

“Changing the laws around this narrative can bring safety to our streets and help reform the character of young offenders after committing crimes that result in death.

“Our core values as a community should stem from being fair, humane, and recognising that death should not be minimised when committed by youth.

“This proposed law will be in alignment with the Human Rights Act; Right to life.

“Change the law to correctly regulate the current youth justice system principles. Protect our communities, rehabilitate youth and bring justice to victims and their loved ones.

Jerald was one of the three sons of Stellus Netto and Mary Netto who arrived from Singapore in the 60s. The eldest son passed away several years back and Jerald was the younger brother with the middle brother Andrew Netto living in London.

Jerald Netto is survived by his wife, two grown up children and his elderly mother. Jerald and family having been living in Southall.

The family is from Puthenthope in Thiruvananthapuram.

Click To Read and Sign Petition