25-Year-Old Sentenced to 28 Years for Murder and Mayhem Outside Bodmin Nightclub

In a chilling episode of violence that shattered the peace of a casual night out, Jake Hill, a 25-year-old from Bodmin, has been sentenced to life in prison with a minimum term of 28 years after a murderous rampage with a knife outside a local nightclub.

The brutal attack left one man dead and four others severely wounded.

Tragic Loss of a Peacemaker

The incident unfolded in the early hours of 30 April 2023, when Jake, armed with a tactical Kombat knife, turned a minor altercation outside the Eclipse nightclub into a deadly scene. Michael Riddiough-Allen, a 32-year-old rugby player from Liskeard, tragically lost his life trying to disarm Jake and prevent further violence. Described as a peacemaker, Michael’s intervention ended fatally when Jake, in the heat of the confrontation, inflicted a lethal stab wound.

The Attack and Its Aftermath

As the nightclub closed and patrons spilled into Castle Canyke Road, a fight erupted, escalating rapidly. Jake was seen retrieving the concealed knife from a hedge across the road, plunging into the fray, and stabbing wildly. Amidst the chaos, cries of ‘I’ve been stabbed’ pierced the night as injured victims sought help.

Michael’s attempt to neutralise the threat ended tragically as he collapsed and died at the scene despite immediate first aid efforts by friends and emergency services.

Capture and Conviction

The violence led to a swift police response. Jake attempted to dispose of the murder weapon by flushing it down a toilet and then hiding it in a kitchen vent at an accomplice’s house. His arrest was dramatic; after a tip-off from a child, he fell through a loft hatch right into the arms of waiting officers.

In court, Jake’s claims of self-defence were dismissed, and his lack of remorse noted by Her Honour Mrs Justice Cutts who condemned his unnecessary carriage of a knife and dismissed any justification for his actions.

Accomplices Also Sentenced

Alongside Jake, Tia Taylor and Chelsea Powell faced justice for their roles in the incident. Tia, 22, received a three-year sentence for manslaughter and perverting the course of justice, having admitted her part in the aftermath. Chelsea, also 22, was sentenced to 15 months for perverting the course of justice, but was released immediately due to time already served on remand.

Detective Inspector Ilona Rosson highlighted the case’s complexity and the profound impact of knife crime on the community. The sentences were seen as a closure for the grieving family and survivors, who showed commendable strength throughout the ordeal.

The tragic events in Bodmin have left a deep scar on the local community, reminding us all of the devastating consequences of carrying and using a knife in public spaces. As the town mourns a hero lost to senseless violence, the hope is that this sentence will serve as a stern warning against such devastating actions.