Teenager's murder conviction 'bittersweet'

The father of a teenager who died after being stabbed at a party has said the moment the attacker was convicted of murder was “bittersweet”.

Charlie Cosser, 17, died two days after being stabbed at a party in Warnham, West Sussex, in July 2023.

A youth, who was 16 at the time and cannot be named for legal reasons, was found guilty of murder at Brighton Crown Court on Tuesday.

Martin Cosser, from Milford, Surrey, launched a charity to tackle knife crime in memory of his son.

Speaking to BBC Radio Surrey, he described the moment he heard the verdict.

“Exhilaration for about 30 seconds and then the reality that nothing changes for us, we're on a life sentence and Charlie's not coming home,” he said.

“But I think it was really important that the accused be held accountable.

“He showed no remorse and it was very difficult for us in court.

“I hope we can begin the grieving process.”

The defendant had initially pleaded guilty to murder, but was allowed to change it, which Mr Cosser said put him and his family through “six months of hell”.

He said: “When you sit there and hear about your son's last words and where he was found, and the condition he was in, what he told us suffered by not respecting his initial plea, we did not need to do so. I hear everything.

“We heard things we can never forget.”

Mr Cosser founded the charity Charlie's Promise to raise awareness among young people of the dangers of knife crime.

He said: “I want to work alongside other charities, I want to work alongside Surrey Police.

“The more we come together, the sooner we can tackle knife crime.

“I’m not going to be able to eradicate it but, I’m telling you, this charity is going to make a difference.”

Detective Inspector Kimball Edey, of the Surrey and Sussex Major Crime Team, said: “Our thoughts continue to be with Charlie’s family, friends and loved ones following this devastating incident.

“This was a complex and rapid investigation. We are grateful for all the public support and for the witnesses who have come forward to help us ensure justice is served for Charlie.

“We will make further comments at the defendant’s sentencing.”

The accused has been remanded in custody and will appear for sentencing on June 19.

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