Gang fatally 'happy slapped' man

A gang of three men kicked and beat a homeless man to death for "fun" in an episode of "happy slapping", the Old Bailey has heard.

Gary Turner, 43, was attacked twice within hours by the gang, in Stratford Broadway, east London, last September.

Thomas Slater and Muyazzim Rohman, both 22, denied murder, while Mr Slater denied causing grievous bodily harm. David Selby, 23, admitted both charges.

The group recorded the first attack on a mobile phone, the court heard.

All three men, from Stratford, had attacked two other people before the final attack on Mr Turner, John Hilton, QC, for prosecution said.

'Happy slapping' video

The first victim suffered bruises, and the second victim had serious injuries, while Mr Turner died from the blows.

John Hilton, QC, for prosecution said: "There was no apparent reason except that it seemed fun.

"It was a particularly unattractive thing called happy slapping.

"It is an integral part of the plan that they have a record of it afterwards to show people and enjoy it themselves."

The group filmed the first attack on Mr Turner, whose head was punched hard as he was sleeping on a bench outside a library.

Mr Turner, who was intoxicated, was dazed when he woke up.

Hours later the three returned again and beat him to death, the court heard.

Mr Roham showed the recording to a friend who found it distasteful, the court was told.

He allegedly told the friend that they were out on the streets "happy slapping" and that "it was a right laugh".

The trial was adjourned until Thursday.