By: TJ “AceHigh Pino” Gill

41-year old Michael James was sentenced to life in prison after a South Essex judge found him guilty of murdering a 73-year old disabled man over a Lotto ticket.

Frank Thain, a disabled man living on a fixed income, was attacked in 2002 by Mr. James while he was walking to a beach shelter in Marine Parade, Southend. The man demanded cash and other valuables from Mr. Thain, but when he refused to comply, Mr. James beat him to death.

Michael James left the scene and stole the man’s Lotto ticket in the process. The multiple kicks and punches that were absorbed by Frank Thain’s head and body left him unconscious and bleeding. He would later die in the hospital.

The judge in the case ruled that because of the “fierce and prolonged” violence James exhibited was more than enough to sentence the man to a minimum of 15 years before he’ll even be eligible for parole. Parole will only be granted if South Essex authorities deem him “not dangerous” if let back out into society. However, it’s tough to gauge on whether he would be granted such amnesty in a case where he showed no remorse or guilt for beating a disabled man to death – and for what?

A couple bucks and a Lotto ticket.


- 2007-12-10