Murder of Toni-Ann and Bertram Byfield

[1] Smith believed that he had committed a perfect crime, leaving no DNA or forensic evidence at the scene.

[5] Despite his criminal background Toni-Ann, who was living under the care of Birmingham Social Services, had been allowed to visit him at his bedsit in an ex-offenders' hostel.

As well as serving time in prison Byfield, who was also known as Tony or Blacka, is believed to have been affiliated to a Jamaican drugs cartel.

[7] On 13 September 2003, Smith gained entry to Byfield's property on the pretext of wanting to buy cannabis.

The victim grabbed a bicycle which he attempted to throw at Smith, though his body ended up entangled in the frame.

[2] After being found guilty Smith was jailed for life for both murders, with a recommendation that he should serve at least 40 years before being considered for parole.

The murder forced the police, media and consequently the public to take a more focused stand on gun crime, which became an important issue.

This case, together with a number of others including that of Victoria Climbié, raised questions about the failings and limitations of Social Services departments.