Pair guilty of perverting the course of justice over Mo Bourner assault

They are soldier Ashley Dacosta, 20, of Silvester Road, and Jack Carrick, who is 25, of Manor Road.

Carrick was also found guilty on a separate charge of witness intimidation.

Thursday’s guilty verdict followed an eight day trial in which Dacosta and Carrick maintained their innocence throughout.

The convictions relate to the attack on former Ninfield Primary pupil Mo, then 15, by Dacosta in October on De La Warr Parade, Bexhill, causing the teenager severe brain damage.

Detective Chief Inspector Nick Sloan, who led the investigation, said: “I am pleased that the jury has found both men guilty of perverting the course of justice - it is another step towards justice for Mo and his family.

“It is over nine months since the mindless assault on Mo by Ashley Dacosta, who then had the arrogance to try to pervert the course of justice from behind his prison bars. Today’s conviction sends out a strong message that witness intimidation and flouting the laws of justice will not be tolerated.

“I would like to thank again all those people who came forward and provided vital information - this has truly been a team effort in bringing Ashley Dacosta and Jack Carrick to justice.

“As always our thoughts are with Mo and his courageous family.

The defendants were remanded and are due to be sentenced on Monday July 30.